Loose Powder vs. Pressed Powder: Which Laura Mercier Formula is Right for You?

When it comes to setting your makeup, there are two icons in the beauty world: loose powders and pressed powders. Both lock in your look, both can give you that dreamy blurred finish, but the way they work (and the way you use them) can make a big difference in your final vibe.

If you’ve ever stood in front of your vanity wondering “Loose or pressed?”, let’s break it down Laura Mercier style—so you can find your perfect powder match.

Loose Powders: The OG Flawless Finish

Loose powders are your go-to when you want that ultra-airbrushed, second-skin finish. They’re ultra-finely milled, lightweight, and designed to melt into your skin—making them perfect for setting your makeup in place for hours without adding weight or texture.

Best for:

• All-day wear & events

• Baking & precision setting

• Blurring large pores or fine lines

• Anyone who wants a truly soft-focus finish

Laura Mercier Favorites:

• Translucent Loose Talc-Free Setting Powder Ultra-Blur
  Talc-free, 16HR wear, hyaluronic acid-infused for hydration, and powered by amino acids + silica powders for instant blurring. Great for all skin types—including dry.

• Translucent Loose Setting Powder
  The cult classic that started it all—24HR shine control, no photo flashback, and a flawless matte finish that’s breathable and never cakey.

• Secret Brightening Color Correcting Under Eye Setting Powder
  Your concealer’s BFF. Locks it in, brightens, and color corrects with light-reflecting pearls for a wide-awake effect.

Pro Tip: For the smoothest application, try Laura’s signature Velour Puff Method—it evenly distributes powder without disturbing your base.

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Pressed Powders: Your On-the-Go Glow Setter

Pressed powders are all about convenience without sacrificing performance. They’re compact, mess-free, and perfect for quick touch-ups or setting your makeup when you’re out and about.

Best for:

• Touch-ups throughout the day

• Travel or small bags

• Natural, lightweight finishes

• Adding glow or softly blurring imperfections

Laura Mercier Favorites:

• Translucent Pressed Talc-Free Waterproof Setting Powder Ultra-Blur
  Our #1 talc-free setting powder, now in a pressed format for portability. 16HR water and sweat-proof wear, hyaluronic acid hydration, and a pore-blurring finish—plus, it’s comfortable for all skin types, even dry.

• Real Flawless Luminous Perfecting Pressed Powder
  For days when you want a healthy, radiant glow. Ultra-creamy, talc-free, and enriched with chamomile extract + rose oil for comfort, while custom-pearl blends boost luminosity. Pairs perfectly with the Laura Mercier Real Flawless Foundation and Real Flawless Concealer.

Pro Tip: Use the Press & Roll Method with the included puff for matte blurring, or sweep on with a fluffy brush for a more natural, diffused finish.

Set It, Forget It, Refresh It

• For an all-day flawless base, start with Translucent Loose Setting Powder Ultra-Blur to lock everything in.

• For touch-ups and shine control, keep Translucent Pressed Setting Powder Ultra-Blur in your bag.

• For a luminous refresh, dust on Real Flawless Luminous Perfecting Pressed Powder.

• And to make it last even longer? Pair with Translucent Hydrating Ultra-Blur Setting Spray for the perfect finishing touch.

Final Take: Whether you’re a loose powder loyalist or a pressed powder pro, Laura Mercier has your perfect formula. Use them together or solo—either way, you’ll get that signature Flawless Face finish that looks like skin, only better.