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By Sophie Joaman • August 2, 2022 • 7 mins read
We love variety in makeup. Who doesn’t want options? That being said, there are a plethora of different types of foundation 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 foundation to choose from too, including liquid foundation and powder foundation.
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 one should you be using for your skin type? If you have dry skin, for example, it’s best to use a liquid foundation to avoid emphasizing dry patches. On the other hand, powder foundation is often preferred for a matte finish, while liquid foundation can provide a dewy glow, depending on the formula.
Well, we’ve got all the answers to make buying your next foundation a walk in the park!
While both liquid and powder foundation 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 skin tone in the process. If you have dry skin, it’s best to use a liquid foundation, as it helps to prevent emphasizing dry patches and provides a more hydrating finish.
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. Depending on the formula, you can achieve either a dewy glow or a matte look. A powder foundation is also just that—a powder formula. It comes in 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 foundation is the loose mineral powder 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—liquid or powder, depending on your skin’s needs and the finish you desire.
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, making it a great option for those who prefer a lightweight yet long-lasting finish.
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. If you have dry skin, it’s best to use a liquid foundation instead, as powder formulas can sometimes emphasize dry patches and texture. Choosing the right type of foundation based on your skin’s needs will ensure the best results.
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 and to enhance your natural skin tone. 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. When deciding between powder vs liquid, those with dry skin should generally use a liquid foundation to achieve a smoother and more hydrated finish.
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, helping to create a seamless, comfortable base. However, if you prefer a matte look, you can lightly set your liquid foundation with a small amount of powder to balance the finish without emphasizing dryness.
The great thing about both liquid foundation and powder foundation is that they can be used by beginners and pros alike. So if you are a beginner, the choice between powder vs liquid foundation comes down to preference as well as your skin type and desired finish. 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. They are great for evening out skin tone and can offer a dewy or matte finish, depending on the formula. If you have dry skin, it’s best to use a liquid foundation to avoid emphasizing dry patches.
On the other hand, if you want some sort of coverage (maybe to cover up certain areas) while still embracing the ‘no-makeup’ makeup style, then a powder foundation can be a great choice here. It provides a lightweight, natural look and is ideal for those who prefer a matte finish without the heaviness of a liquid formula.
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 foundation and powder foundation have their pros and cons for various skin tones and requirements, so considering your needs is the best way to make the most informed decision. If you have dry skin, it’s often best to use a liquid foundation to avoid emphasizing dry patches, whereas those who prefer a matte finish might lean toward a powder foundation.
If we had to choose between powder vs 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. You can achieve either a dewy or matte finish, depending on the formula, making it perfect for different occasions and skin types. Although a powder foundation for those days when you really don’t want to wear much makeup can be a great lightweight alternative, it ultimately comes down to what works best for you!
