What Is the Difference Between Loose Powder and Pressed Powder?

While both types of face powders are used to set foundation, concealer and cream products, there are some key differences between the two.

Loose powder is finely milled powder that's used to set makeup (hence why it's also called setting powder), and it also blurs and conceals fine lines while absorbing oil on your skin during the day. The finely milled texture means it has a lightweight coverage, and since loose powders tend to come in jars, they're best left at home as the final step of your beauty routine.

Pressed powder comes in a semi-solid powder form, and they offer more coverage and color payoff, so while they can be used to set makeup, you can also use them in place of foundation. Pressed powders also tend to come in a large range of shades, while loose powders will usually come in less shades with a translucent option. Pressed powders are a lot more portable, as they come in compacts with powder puffs often included so you can use them on-the-go for touch ups.