Face

Powder Vs Liquid Foundation: Which One Is Better For You?

By Sophie Joaman • August 2, 2022 • 5 mins read

We love variety in makeup. Who doesn’t want options? That being said there are a plethora of different types of products on the market and this can become quite confusing, if not overwhelming sometimes.

When it comes to foundation, it can become a whole different ball game. Not only do you have finishes and tones to contend with, but there are also different types of foundations to choose from too.

That being said, once you know all the keywords, what they mean and how they benefit you, foundation is a breeze (and where the fun of makeup really starts too).

This time around it’s the battle between Powder vs liquid foundation. What exactly is the difference? And which ones should you be using for your skin type? Well, we’ve got all the answers to make buying your next foundation a walk in the park.

The Difference Between Liquid and Powder Foundation.

While both liquid and powder foundations offer coverage to the skin, they are formulated differently, with different outcomes. A liquid foundation is exactly that, a liquid product in a bottle, with water, silicone or a creamy base.

A liquid foundation is often the most popular type of foundation out there and is easy to use, mainly because it glides over the skin, smoothing out and correcting any uneven tone in the process.

With a liquid foundation, you are left with a smooth base for the rest of your makeup, and if you do want higher coverage, you can certainly have that too.

A powder foundation is also just that, a powder formula. It comes into two forms for even more choice. One type is the pressed powder which usually comes in a compact.

This can be easily popped into your handbag for application wherever and whenever. The other type of powder foundation is the loose mineral foundation. The difference with a powder foundation is the finish that it gives.

Powder foundation gives a much more natural, matte finish. Perfect if you want your skin to look like your skin, just more enhanced. Some people prefer powder foundations as they are much more lightweight and breathable.

They don’t however, offer the same amount of coverage as a liquid foundation. So the choice really comes down to preference.

Does Liquid Or Powder Last Longer?

Whether a liquid or powder foundation lasts longer is all down to your skin type. If you have oily skin and are using a liquid foundation with a dewy finish, you might find that it doesn’t last as long and may even slide from your face.

Whereas, if you opt for a matte finish for your foundation, it will likely go further. In terms of a powder foundation, this tends to last much longer and won’t budge as easily as a liquid form.

Although, if your skin is on the drier end, then a powder foundation might need a helping hand with some extra hydration and primer beforehand, to keep it going and looking fresher for longer.

Is Powder or Liquid Foundation Better For Dry Skin?

For anyone with dry skin nevertheless, (anything from slightly dry to extremely dehydrated) you are usually better off using a liquid foundation. Particularly one with added hydration or with a dewy finish to keep your makeup from looking cakey or patchy.

A liquid foundation will keep your makeup looking much more glowy as opposed to a powder foundation, which is going to cling to any dry patches and enhance them more.

If you are someone with dry skin, you might also find that liquid foundation feels a lot nicer and silkier on your skin than a powder one.

Powder or Liquid For Beginners?

The great thing about both liquid and powder foundations is that they can be used by beginners and pros alike. So if you are a beginner the choice between powder or liquid foundation comes down to preference as well.

It is worth thinking about what you want from your foundation. If you want to learn or grow into makeup and maybe try out high coverage or full-glam looks, then give liquid foundations a go.

On the other hand, if you want some sort of coverage maybe to cover up certain areas) while still embracing the ‘no make-up’ makeup style, then a powder foundation can be a great choice here.

Powder Vs. Liquid, Which Is Best To Use?

At the end of the day, makeup is an incredibly personal thing as are the products that you use, so the choice of which type of foundation is best to use is down to you and your personal preference.

Both liquid and powder foundations have their pros and cons for various skin tones and requirements, so considering your requirements is the best way to make the most informed decision.

If we had to choose between powder or liquid foundation, we’d have to go with liquid. It would be hard for us to give up our liquid foundation- The sheer versatility, outcome and look that you get from a liquid foundation is unbeatable.

Although a powder foundation for those days when you really don’t want to wear makeup can be a great alternative. So the real question is, powder or liquid- which one are you choosing?

Author Image

Sophie Joaman

Sophie Joaman is a freelance writer with a real love and focus for fashion, beauty, lifestyle and culture. With a Master's degree in Journalism and Media Communications, Sophie is ​​currently an ongoing contributing freelance writer for Cohorted Cult-sister website of beauty subscription box Cohorted. She was also a contributing writer during London Fashion Week and London Fashion Week: Men's from 2015-2018.

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