Mineral Makeup Finishing Powder

The benefits and uses for mineral makeup finishing powders and setting veils are numerous.

You might think you can only apply them as a setting powder after your foundation. Not so.

Many people ask if they even need to use a mineral makeup finisher, since the foundation itself IS a powder. That is totally up to you.

Traditionally, finishers were applied after liquid makeup to help set it. Otherwise, the liquid would remain liquidy and slide around on your face.

Since loose powder mineral makeup is already a powder, it is optional whether or not you use a setting powder. It is interesting to note, however, that finishing powders are really excellent sellers in the mineral makeup world.

Finishers create different looks and have different effects. You might be most familiar with Mineral Veil by Bare Escentuals. Mineral Veil is a registered trademark of that company, not a generic term for a finisher. ( a good point to keep in mind should you begin to sell mineral makeup).

Finishers can be glowy, sparkly, shimmery, matte, oil-absorbing, or anywhere in between.

You might wish to use one if:

- You don't like the finish your mineral foundation gives. If you want a dewy look, but your foundation is matte, you will need to use a dewy finishing veil. If your foundation is shiny, you will want to set it with a matte powder if you prefer a matte look.

- You have oily or constantly shiny skin. Use an oil-controlling setting powder to keep shine at bay. Apply throughout the day as often as needed to keep a matte look. Avoid over-applying, though, or you could end up looking chalky.

You can also apply your finisher before your foundation. It can help to prepare your face, much like a primer would.

Keep in mind that most setting powders do not provide coverage. They simply correct the texture or glow of your face. They don't have any covering ingredients, so don't apply them in hopes of smoothing out imperfections or discolorations. This is what your mineral foundation (or concealer) is for.

Other uses for finishers include:

-Applying shimmer finisher to brow bone and eyelids for a sparkly effect

-Applying finisher just to cheeks for a healthy glow

-Applying matte finisher under foundation for a more subdued look

-Mixing in with your mineral foundation if you want a more sheer look (great tip if you buy a mineral foundation that is too chalky

-Mixing in with other mineral powders (blushes, bronzers, eye colors, etc.) in order to lighten them or make them less intense

Return from Finishing Powder to Makeup Tips

Return from Finishing Powder to Mineral Makeup Help Home Page