Powder foundation is a must-have in your kikay kit. It effectively combats excess oils brought about by hot and humid days that we often encounter as we live in a country with a tropical climate. Aside from that, it is also less likely to clog your pores, and it could be easier to apply than its liquid counterparts.
Thanks to its easy-to-use compact form, you can also carry it with you anywhere, so if you ever find yourself in a sticky situation, you can quickly dab it on your face for a quick retouch. If you're ready to flaunt that shine-free look, read on as we present our top 10 picks and have a buying guide reviewed by beauty professional Elaine Ganuelas.
Quick List - Top Powder Foundations
MAC Cosmetics
An Ultra-Matte and Long-Wearing Foundation With a Wide Range of Shades
Fenty Beauty
Gives You a Blurred Skin Finish and Has a Wide Selection Of Shades
Elaine Ganuelas has been living and breathing the life of all things beauty since childhood. What once started as her passion became her career in 2006. Now she does makeup, hairstyling, image consultation (yes, makeovers), personal shopping, consumer research, and reviews.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
There are a lot of powder foundations available right now, from international brands to local products. Overwhelmed with the many options? Don't worry! Read through our buying guide below so you can go through the factors you should consider to narrow down your choices.
Contrary to popular belief, powder foundations are not only for oily skin. Even if you have dry skin, you can find different formulations in the market that can cater to your skin type's unique needs. You just have to know what you should look for to select one that would go well with your skin type.
Those with dry skin are better off with powder foundation formulas that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, amino acid, vitamin E, vitamin B5 (panthenol), and collagen. You can also find ones with natural ingredients, such as marigold and primrose extracts. These ingredients help retain the skin's natural moisture instead of drawing it away.
Although most powder foundations seem to be formulated with oily skin in mind due to their oil-absorbing properties, several powder foundations suitable for all skin types are also widely available on the market, so you can opt for these too.
Most powder foundations may go well with oily skin since they typically have oil-absorbing and mattifying properties. But if you want one that can address more concerns linked with the oily skin type, look for powder foundations with non-comedogenic formulas. These are also recommended for those with sensitive skin.
Non-comedogenic formulas do not cause pore blockages and breakouts, which can be highly beneficial for oily skin that tends to be prone to developing them. These non-comedogenic formulas usually have skin-healing and breakout-preventing ingredients, too, like salicylic acid.
Decoding the right foundation shade can be difficult since it may need some swatching to get the perfect match. You also need to consider your skin's undertone since it can make or break your whole look. For foundations, the general rule is: choose the foundation undertone based on your skin's undertone.
If the veins on your wrist come out as blue, you have a cool undertone. Go for the shade closest to your skin tone and have cool undertones as well. Aside from shades that you can try, there are also shades that you might want to avoid. For cool undertones, it might be best to avoid yellowish shades if you don't want to appear sallow.
On the other hand, green veins on your wrist indicate a warm undertone. Contrary to the effect of yellowish shades on those who have cool undertones, these warm hues can complement your warm undertone well. Lastly, if you catch sight of both blue and green veins on your wrist, you have a neutral undertone. Thus, you can opt for a foundation with a neutral undertone.
Another vital thing to consider when purchasing a foundation is the amount of coverage that you need. With the countless brands of powder foundation available on the market, you are also in for various coverage levels.
Powder foundations with light or sheer coverage are ideal for balancing your skin tone. You can use it to pull off the no-makeup look as it only provides a natural, breathable, and minimal layer. These are also perfect for people who dread the heavy feeling of makeup on their face.
Medium coverage is best for concealing minor skin troubles like blemishes while still maintaining your skin’s natural glow. It is also buildable, so you can easily layer it to reach full coverage or sheer it out with some moisturizer for a less prominent coat, depending on your makeup look for the day.
For days when sheer-to-medium coverage foundations fail to cover up the apparent lack of sleep or skin breakouts, full coverage foundations can save the day! This coverage is best for concealing more visible concerns like acne, dark circles, and skin discoloration.
It helps your skin look smooth and flawless, perfect if you’re out for a day-long social event or for a situation requiring you to be on camera. Full coverage foundations are often long-lasting and buildable too.
With the continuous advancements in the cosmetics world, plenty of cosmetics nowadays does not just focus on beautifying but also on taking care of your skin. Several powder foundations come with added layers of nourishments that aim to protect your skin from environmental stressors. Powder foundations with a sun protection factor are widely available on the market.
They can provide you with varying levels of SPF that can also offer different levels of protection from harmful UV rays. However, note that not all of them meet the recommended SPF 30, so it's best to think of them as extra protection only, and not solely rely on them. However, do keep in mind that these are not recommended for occasions where flash photography is present since they can show a "white cast."
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best for | Shades Available | Coverage | SPF | |||||
1 | MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation | ![]() | An Ultra-Matte and Long-Wearing Foundation With a Wide Range of Shades | All Skin Types | 17 | Medium To Full | None | |
2 | Make Up For Ever HD Skin Powder Foundation | ![]() | Gives a Natural-Looking Finish With Buildable Coverage | Combination, Dry, Normal, And Oily Skin Types | 21 | Sheer To Full | None | |
3 | Maybelline Fit Me 24HR Powder Foundation | ![]() | Contains Volcanic Ash to Control Oil for Up to 24 Hours | Normal, Oily, Dry, Combination, And Sensitive Skin Types | 8 | Full | SPF 44 PA+++ | |
4 | Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Powder Foundation | ![]() | Gives You a Blurred Skin Finish and Has a Wide Selection Of Shades | Combination, Dry, Normal, And Oily Skin Types | 50 | Sheer To Full | None | |
5 | L'Oreal Paris Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Powder Foundation | ![]() | Weather-Proof and Full-Coverage Foundation for Long, Busy Days | All Skin Types | 10 | Full | None | |
6 | Issy True Flex Powder Foundation | ![]() | Visibly Minimizes Pores and Controls Shine for 12 Hours | All Skin Types | 9 | Medium To Full | None | |
7 | GRWM Cosmetics Velvet Setting Powder | ![]() | A Multi-Use Velvety Powder With Oil-Control Properties | All Skin Types | 8 | Light to Medium | None | |
8 | Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Matte Powder Foundation | ![]() | A Buildable Foundation and Setting Powder in One Compact | Normal, Dy, Combination And Oily Skin Types | 16 | Sheer To Full | SPF 10 | |
9 | BLK Cosmetics All-Day Matte Powder Foundation | ![]() | Formulated With Vitamin E and SPF for Ultimate Protection | Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, And Sensitive Skin Types | 6 | Medium To Full | SPF 15 | |
10 | Ever Bilena Matte Two Way Cake | ![]() | Affordable 2-in-1 Compact to Keep Shine at Bay | Combination Skin Type | 3 | Medium To Full | None |
MAC is one of the real cult-favorite brands. Besides offering quality products, they foster inclusivity by catering to a very diverse range of skin colors and undertones, as evidenced by this powder foundation. Both dry and oily skin gals can also use the Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation because it controls oil but is non-drying to the skin.
In terms of longevity, this compact foundation can give your skin an ultra-matte finish for up to 24 hours. Its formula is also non-comedogenic, making it safe even for those with acne-prone and sensitive skin. Additionally, it promises no cakey effect, creasing and settling into fine lines. You can also count on it to prevent you from getting hulas, as it is sweat-resistant!
Best for | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 17 |
Coverage | Medium To Full |
SPF | None |
It can be used for touch-ups, as a buildable foundation, or as setting powder since it gives you customizable coverage. It also has a waterproof and sweatproof formula that locks in hydration for maximum comfort. People like using it because it covers their dark spots and redness while still feeling lightweight on the skin.
Best for | Combination, Dry, Normal, And Oily Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 21 |
Coverage | Sheer To Full |
SPF | None |
Maybelline's Fit Me 24HR Powder Foundation is perfect for people on the go who need their makeup to stay the whole day. This product can control oil for up to 24 hours and remain seamless on the skin even after a long day. It is all thanks to its volcanic ash content, which absorbs excess sebum, clarifies the skin, and leaves a natural matte finish.
This powder foundation is dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog your pores or cause breakouts. It can even help protect your skin from the sun's rays because it has SPF 44 PA+++. Moreover, several reviewers rave about how this product is good at mattifying the skin.
Best for | Normal, Oily, Dry, Combination, And Sensitive Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 8 |
Coverage | Full |
SPF | SPF 44 PA+++ |
Best for | Combination, Dry, Normal, And Oily Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 50 |
Coverage | Sheer To Full |
SPF | None |
Best for | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 10 |
Coverage | Full |
SPF | None |
Best for | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 9 |
Coverage | Medium To Full |
SPF | None |
Best for | All Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 8 |
Coverage | Light to Medium |
SPF | None |
Estée Lauder's Double Wear Stay-in-Place Matte Powder Foundation is perfect for those who are often on the go. Instead of bringing your whole makeup stash, you can utilize this multi-use compact as a foundation or a setting powder. It has a matte finish, so you won't easily oil up no matter what you're doing. You can also customize its coverage depending on how you use the applicator.
Formula-wise, this foundation has a silky soft, weightless formulation that visibly reduces the appearance of pores and controls shine for up to 12 hours. It also has SPF 10, giving you extra protection from the sun's harmful rays. Moreover, it is sweat- and humidity-resistant, making it suitable for all-day wear.
Best for | Normal, Dy, Combination And Oily Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 16 |
Coverage | Sheer To Full |
SPF | SPF 10 |
For an always camera-ready look, try this powder foundation from BLK Cosmetics that aims to give you a soft matte finish. It effectively conceals blemishes and blurs pores to give you a canvas-like and flawless look that requires no camera filter. Certainly, this is a perfect addition to the kikay kits of those who love to take selfies!
It is made of ultra-fine pigments that naturally blend with your skin and buildable formula that allows you to go for medium or full coverage, depending on your desired #MakeupOfTheDay. It does all that while also defending your skin against the sun and signs of aging— props to its SPF 15 PA++ and vitamin E content.
Best for | Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, And Sensitive Skin Types |
---|---|
Shades Available | 6 |
Coverage | Medium To Full |
SPF | SPF 15 |
If your skin is on the oilier side, buying an affordable compact powder like this one can be a good option. With oilier skin, you're bound to make frequent trips to the washroom to touch up that oily T-zone, so it is wise to go for one that can accompany you to your maya't-mayang retouch without breaking your wallet.
It is also perfect if you're looking for a compact with long-staying power and has an excellent matte finish. This foundation can also be used in two ways, either wet or dry. You can use it wet for heavier coverage and dry if you wish to go for a medium one.
Best for | Combination Skin Type |
---|---|
Shades Available | 3 |
Coverage | Medium To Full |
SPF | None |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Although it sounds odd for some, it's possible to do it. Mixing the two formulations can especially come in handy for those with combination skin types who probably find it challenging to choose a single type of foundation.
To get the best of both worlds, you can mix the two by using powder foundation in oily spots and liquid formula in other areas around your face. You can also use a liquid foundation on your entire face, then finish off by dusting some powder foundation to score a full-coverage and oil-free finish.
Although less likely to harbor bacteria than their liquid counterparts, powder foundations also expire like other cosmetics. It is also possible to tell when your powder foundation is about to go "bad." If you start to notice hard rims on your compact powder, it is an indication that your foundation might have been excessively exposed to the oils from your skin.
It is recommended that you only keep them for up to 18 months. If you want to maximize their shelf life, make sure to close their lid shut after every use to prevent oxidation.
It is also crucial to ensure that you only use clean brushes or sponges when using them, so you can limit the amount of oil that ends up on your powder foundation. It is because these oils can cause them to oxidate or eventually harbor bacteria.
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Author: R. Victoriano
Re-Editor: Valerie Lagura
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: MAC Cosmetics|Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation
No. 2: Make Up For Ever|HD Skin Powder Foundation
No. 3: Maybelline|Fit Me 24HR Powder Foundation
No. 4: Fenty Beauty|Pro Filt'r Soft Matte Powder Foundation
No. 5: L'Oreal Paris|Infallible 24HR Fresh Wear Powder Foundation
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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