10 Best Cosmetologist-Approved Compact Powders For Dry Skin – 2024
Say goodbye to cakey makeup with these easy-to-apply, non-drying compact powders!
Georgia Smith is a cosmetologist-turned-cosmetic chemist and has been in the industry for over 13 years as a beauty therapist. She is the founder of Skin Sister and owns a hugely successful, skin focused beauty salon in Sydney, Australia. Georgia is also a qualified Cosmetic Chemist, and she learned about the chemistry behind the skin and the complex science behind skin care ingredients to transform her clients’ skin and fix their skin concerns.
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Experience: 4 yearsJyotsana Rao is an engineering graduate from NIT, Nagpur, who discovered her love for writing during her undergraduate days. She is passionate about writing about everything related to beauty - makeup, fashion, hairstyles, skin care, or hair care and has 4 years of experience on writing in these genres.
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Experience: 3 yearsKrati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Experience: 7 yearsMadhumati is an associate editor with seven years of professional experience. She has previously worked as an editor, proofreader, and a writer with various organizations, helping her navigate through the various facets of content creation and refinement with ease.
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A makeup product that will always find a place in your handbag is a compact powder. Compact powders work for all skin types, but if you have dry skin and want to prevent your foundation from looking dry or flaky, you need the best compact powders for dry skin. If you are in a hurry and want a quick touch-up, you can also reach out for a statement-making compact powder.
Face powders come either in pressed or loose powder forms. The pressed powders come in small, handy cases with a mirror, and they are easier to carry. The loose ones come in small tubs, and you can apply them with the help of a sponge or makeup brush. Keep reading to explore our top picks of the 10 top-rated compact powders for dry skin.
In This Article
Top 10 Compact Powders For Dry Skin
1. Best Luminous Finish:BareMinerals Original Foundation
The BareMinerals Original Foundation looks like a powder and feels like a cream, making it ideal for dry skin. This hypoallergenic compact powder for dry skin provides coverage like that of a foundation and sets your makeup like a powder. This mineral powder composition is not tested on animals, ensuring a guilt-free experience. It provides a naturally luminous finish. A user stated, “Will never use anything else. It’s light, smooth, and natural.” A blogger writes, “It gives good coverage and it feels so lightweight you don’t even know you are wearing foundation. The coverage is build-able, however, I tend to just use one ‘coat’ of the foundation; I find this is enough. I have never found it to look powdery or cakey on my skin (i).”
Also Recommended By: The experts at Glamour also think highly of Neutrogena Healthy Skin.[1]The 25 Best Setting Powders to Handle Sweat, Shine, and Beyond – glamour https://www.glamour.com/story/best-setting-powders
Pros
- Creamy mineral formula improves the appearance of the skin over time.
- Glides on the skin smoothly
- It is a one-step product.
- Dermatologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The overwhelming 830 positive reviews on Amazon show how popular this product is with happy users.
2. Best Sheer Coverage:Neutrogena Healthy Skin Pressed Makeup Powder Compact
The Neutrogena Healthy Skin Pressed Makeup Powder Compact is the perfect solution for achieving a smooth, even skin tone with a natural-looking, matte finish. This velvety, silky-pressed luminous loose powder is incredibly lightweight and stays true to your skin tone. This sheer coverage compact powder for dry skin helps to create a flawless skin texture while also minimizing the unwanted shine. Its formula is specially designed to condition and smooth the skin, using antioxidants, pro-vitamin B5, and vitamins C & E. The makeup powder contains light diffusers, which help to soften the appearance of fine lines, blemishes, and imperfections. Several reviewers, who have been using the product for years, have vouched for its good quality.
Pros
- Leaves skin looking fresh all day long
- Super lightweight and comfortable
- Matte finish
Cons
- Does not come with a sponge/brush
"This pressed powder offers a natural look and feel, which is lighter than a traditional foundation. It offers light to medium coverage and doesn't irritate my acne-prone skin. Although selecting the right shade can be tricky, the medium hue worked well on my fair complexion. It's still a staple in my routine, perfect for quick touch-ups throughout the day."
3. Best Long-Lasting Coverage:Clinique Almost Powder
It provides a gorgeous look and feel to your skin. This non-comedogenic compact powder is perfect for dry skin and combination skin. It gives the ultimate no-makeup look. The long-wear formula helps to keep the pores out of trouble. It delivers sheer to medium coverage and gives a flawless, radiant finish. “It does not look cakey or powdery. It leaves the skin looking like skin”, said a user.
Pros
- Provides a smooth and flawless look.
- Comes along with a sponge.
- Long-wearing up to seven hours.
- Allergy-tested
4. Best Non-Drying Formula:Inglot YSM Powder
The YSM Powder by Inglot is a perfect tool for touch-ups. It neither causes blemishes nor clogs your pores. This dewy finish compact powder for dry skin provides sheer coverage and evens out the skin, giving it a matte finish and a subtle glow. It is based on light emollient esters and mica that protect the skin and are non-drying. “It’s definitely worth every penny, I am in love with it”, says a user.
Pros
- Great for touch-ups.
- Light and great coverage
- Makes your skin glow
- Non-drying.
Pro Tipother greasy parts of the face. Avoid applying it to your entire face.
5. Best Anti-Aging Benefits:Smashbox HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder
The HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder gives a radiant and healthy luminous glow to your skin. This hydrating compact powder for dry skin is the first anti-aging powder that has skincare built-in, with minerals and amino acids, and a powerful peptide that provides anti-aging benefits. his powder also revitalizes the skin and leaves the skin conditioned. It comes in the form of pressed powder combined with a loose powder. “I loveeeeeee this powder. Doesn’t cake your face. Perfect setting powder”, says a user. Multiple reviews on Amazon also state how smooth the product feels on the skin.
A blogger says, “I’ve used this both on its own and as a finishing powder and for both scenarios, my complexion was radiant, healthy and I noticed that as the day went on, the powder blended with my complexion and looked natural; some finishing powders tend to oxidize or require a second dusting during the day and I also noticed that even with a second dusting or the odd occasion where I was a little heavy-handed in the morning, the powder didn’t settle into fine lines or look cakey because of its highly hydrating formula (ii).”
Pros
- Provides hydration and nourishment to the skin.
- Does not look cakey or powdery.
Cons
- Provides less coverage as compared to others.
"I love using this hydrating perfecting powder for its ability to set makeup without accentuating wrinkles or feeling cakey. It blends well for a natural finish and is formulated to avoid clogging pores, which is a bonus for my sensitive skin. The unique box design minimizes potential bacterial contamination of the formula. Though it may require a setting spray to ensure longevity, it offers a noticeable difference from drugstore brands."
6. Best Moisturizing Formula:Cover FX Illuminating Setting Powder
This anti-oxidant-rich compact powder for dry skin helps to set the foundation in place and provides moisturizing benefits while controlling the shine on the face. The antioxidants in the powder soothe the skin and reduce redness in the face all day long. “Amazing! Makes my foundation last like no other powder I’ve tried without irritating or drying my skin. definitely recommended”, says a user.
Pros
- The moisturizing benefits give a smooth and even look.
- Reduces redness on the face.
- Controls the shine.
- Non-irritating formula
Cons
- Does not come with a sponge/brush.
"The illuminating setting powder adds a subtle glow and blends nicely, making it a go-to for a luminescent effect. Its light shade is deceptive in the compact but works well for light neutral skin. If sparkle isn't your everyday preference, reserve this for those special occasions that call for an extra shimmer."
Pro Tip7. Best Lightweight Texture:Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder
The Smooth Finish Foundation Powder is silky and smooth and has skin care built-in. This sensitive skin-friendly compact powder for dry skin glides on the skin effortlessly and contains conditioning agents such as vitamin E and shea butter that hydrate the skin. The finishing powder is a lightweight compact that provides sheer to medium coverage. You can also use it wet for buildable coverage. “This powder gives great coverage that floats on your skin, making it look soft-focused and flawless”, says an expert.
Pros
- Long-wearing up to eight hours.
- Lightweight formula
- Glides on smoothly like velvet
- Can be applied wet or dry.
8. Best Lightweight Texture:Jane Iredale Compact Set Semi-Matte Pressed Powder
The Jane Iredale Compact Set Semi-Matte Pressed Powder is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a flawless, extremely natural-looking finish. The mattifying powder is made with pure, high-quality minerals that are gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. With a silky smooth texture, this lightweight compact powder for dry skin goes on easily and provides buildable coverage to help even out your skin tone and create a radiant, matte finish. Plus, it is long-lasting, so you can wear it all day effortlessly. This SPF-infused compact powder gives sun protection, comes with a built-in mirror and applicator, making it easy to apply and touch up your makeup throughout the day. How much better can it get?
Pros
- Golden glow finish
- Nourishes and hydrates the skin
- No-makeup look feel
- Protects from harmful sun rays
- Not tested on animals
- Buildable formula
Cons
None
9. Best Buildable Coverage:Urban Decay Naked Skin Ultra Definition Powder Foundation
Now you can master the demi-matte and full coverage look that lasts all day long. This blurring effect compact powder for dry skin provides a velvety formula that is extremely weightless on the skin, and the coverage is buildable. Its unique formula diffuses light and blurs out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It creates a radiant no makeup look, that looks natural and fresh on dull skin. It can be used as both a foundation and powder. “A must-have in the makeup bag. Nice, smooth and perfect glow!”, stated a user.
Pros
- Demi-matte finish.
- Velvety finish and weightless.
Did you know10. Best Buildable Coverage:Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Pressed Face Powder
Get ready to put your best face forward with the Maybelline’s Matte and Poreless Powder Face Makeup! This long-lasting compact powder for dry skin is perfect for normal to oily skin and helps to control shine while leaving a natural, poreless-looking finish. It prevents dehydration of the skin. With a wide range of shades to choose from, you can find the perfect match for your skin tone. Use it as a loose setting powder to control shine for a flawless, natural-looking finish that will have you feeling confident all day long.
Pros
- Natural matte finish
- Blends seamlessly
- Non-comedogenic formula
- Stays on the skin for long
Cons
- No applicator included
"I've tried this pressed powder and like the extensive color range. The coverage is commendable, providing a flawless finish that feels light on the skin while effectively controlling oil and shine. The case design and the mirror placement are practical for on-the-go touch-ups, The product's overall performance is impressive for its price point."
*Subject to Availability
A compact powder is an essential makeup item in every girl’s vanity. Irrespective of the skin type, this is a must-have product. But ensure that you apply the right product according to your skin type. Check out the following section to select the best compact powder for dry skin.
How To Choose The Right Texture Of Compact Powder For Dry Skin
A cream-based compact or a translucent powder is the best choice for dry skin types. This moisturizing compact powder for dry skin will make your face look smooth, flawless, and less flaky. Avoid a matte finish, as it can make your skin drier. Mineral-based compact powders are good options for dry skin types as they make the skin glow without any creases. As an extra step to prevent dryness, begin your makeup routine with a good moisturizer to prep the skin. And lastly, ensure it matches your natural skin tone.
All skin types can apply compact powder but if you have dry skin, follow the steps given below to get the best results.
How To Apply Compact Powder On Dry Skin
Step 1:
Start by cleansing your face with a hydrating cleanser.
Step 2: Apply a good-quality moisturizer to prep your skin for the next steps.
Step 3: Apply foundation with hydrating ingredients in a shade that matches your skin tone.
Step 4: Take some compact powder on a fluffy powder brush and start by applying from the center of your face.
Pro Tip: For dry skin, apply the powder only on the T-zone and your undereye area. Avoid using it on the dry areas of the face as it may end up looking patchy and cakey.
Infographic: How To Pick The Best Compact Powder For Dry Skin
Compact powder is an essential makeup product for every skin type. If you have dry skin, applying compact powder can make your base look flawless. However, picking the right compact powder for dry skin can be challenging. Check out the infographic below to know what you need to consider when selecting the best compact powder for dry skin. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Compact powder is very different from a traditional powder. It helps seal the foundation and prevents makeup from drying out. The listed compact powers for dry skin are composed of mineral-based ingredients that provide a smooth, luminous, natural, translucent finish to your face. They also act as anti-aging agents as they help conceal the appearance of pores, without making the face look cakey. The Bare Minerals Original Foundation delivers light, buildable coverage, while the Neutrogena Healthy Skin Pressed Makeup Powder Compact reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But if you are looking for something that nourishes your skin, try the Smashbox HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder. These compact powders are lightweight, non-drying, provide long-lasting results, and give a seamless finish. However, some products provide less coverage than others. Grab the best compact power that suits your skin type with the help of the product reviews given above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does dry skin need compact powder?
Yes, dry skin also needs compact powder to get a smooth finish and prevent your makeup from getting flaky.
Which compact powder is best for dry skin?
The BareMinerals Original Foundation, the M.A.C. Studio Careblend Pressed Powder, and the Clinique Almost Powder are some of the best cream-like compact powders for dry skin.
Which is the best compact powder for dry skin in summer?
The NARS All Day Luminous Powder Foundation SPF 24 is one of the best compact powders for dry skin in the summers. It looks good and protects the skin.
Which is the best face powder for daily use?
The Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder is lightweight and perfect for regular wear without feeling too heavy on the skin.
Loose or pressed powder for dry skin – which is better?
Pressed powders are more suitable for dry skin types as they contain nourishing oils and a little product is enough for full coverage.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Jyotsana Rao, is a makeup enthusiast and loves trying on makeup products and reviewing them for her readers. She went through many product websites and checked numerous user reviews online to compile this list of the best compact powders for dry skin. These products are easy to apply and impart an even look to the skin.
References
Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
(i). The Hourglass Blogger
https://thehourglassblogger.wordpress.com/2013/11/19/review-bareminerals-original-foundation/
(ii). Cappuccinos And Biscottis
https://cappuccinosandbiscottis.wordpress.com/2016/01/08/smashbox-halo-perfecting-powder-review/
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