Face powder that matches your skin tone will usually look the most natural. If possible, try a few facial powders before deciding on one. Keep in mind that more expensive powder compacts will often be better quality. You should also keep your skin type in mind when choosing the best powder compact for yourself. The design and style of the case itself may also sway your decision.
The color of the powder in a face powder compact should be one of the first things that you look at when trying to decide if it is right for you. The powder should be almost a perfect match to your skin color. You should also keep in mind your skin undertones. People with cool skin will also usually look best wearing face powders with a bluish undertone, while those with warm skin will typically look best wearing a face powder that has yellowish undertones.
One of the easiest ways to determine if a powder compact matches your skin is by holding it up to your face and looking in the mirror. This can sometimes be misleading, however, and it is usually more reliable to test the makeup on your skin. Many department stores can give you access to samples, and you may also be able to find free makeup samples online.
Translucent powder is another option for most women. This type of powder compact is designed to be invisible on the skin, and it can help set foundations and absorb excess oil. Women with very fair skin are usually advised to only use a translucent powder, since very pale face powders can make skin appear too pale, and cause a woman to look pastey. Once again, however, you should test this type of powder on your face to ensure that it is not too noticeable.
When testing a powder compact, you should not only note how the color looks on your skin. You should also take note of how the powder feels on your skin. Some powders can feel heavy, while you may not feel others at all. High-quality powder compacts are usually a bit more expensive, but they typically blend into the skin better and feel smoother on the face.
You should also consider using a powder compact formulated for your skin type. People with oily skin can generally use nearly every type of face powder, since it helps absorb excess oil. Dry-skinned people, on the other hand, should look for a moisturizing powder, since regular face powders can exacerbate the dryness. There are also several different powder compacts formulated for those with sensitive skin.
Compact cases come in a variety of colors and styles. You may be able to find one that's your favorite color, for instance, or one that matches your handbag. A mirrored compact will also come in very handy when performing makeup touch-ups.