Want a Matte Finish That Doesn’t Look Flat? Here’s How to Apply Powder Foundation the Right Way

Matte powder foundation has major main-character energy—especially in summer. But let’s be honest, applying powder the wrong way can leave your skin looking cakey, patchy, or just...not cute. When done right though? It’s soft, breathable, blurred-skin magic.

Whether you're team oily skin, live in a humid climate, or just want something quick and foolproof for every day, Laura Mercier’s Real Flawless Feather Matte Powder Foundation is the real deal. It’s primer-infused, blurs everything (in the best way), and keeps skin looking smooth—not shiny—for up to 16 hours.

Here’s your no-stress guide to applying matte powder foundation for that effortless, soft-matte finish that still looks like skin.

Step 1: Start with Clean, Prepped Skin

This is your foundation’s foundation—so don’t skip it. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin as usual. If you’re oily, go for an oil-free or gel-based moisturizer that hydrates without making you greasy.

Want that powder to really grip and last? Apply the Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Blurring Primer beforehand to smooth out pores and reduce shine from the jump.

Step 2: Choose Your Tool Wisely

When it comes to powder, application tools matter. The Real Flawless Powder Foundation comes with an applicator sponge designed for buildable coverage—but you can also use a fluffy brush if you want a lighter, more diffused finish.

• Use the sponge for fuller coverage or targeted touch-ups.

• Use a dense brush for medium, all-over application.

• Use a fluffy brush for sheer, natural coverage.

Step 3: Press, Don’t Swipe

This is the key to avoiding streaks and getting that seamless finish. Using your sponge or brush, press the powder into the skin using gentle tapping or patting motions. Focus on areas where you tend to get oily—like the T-zone, chin, and around the nose.

Why it works: Pressing deposits product evenly and helps the formula “melt” into the skin, creating that blurred, skin-like finish Real Flawless is known for.

Step 4: Build Where Needed

Powder foundation is buildable, so don’t feel like you need to go full glam right away. Start sheer, then build coverage in areas where you want a little more—think redness around the nose, chin, or any uneven tone.

The Real Flawless formula gives sheer to medium coverage that never looks cakey, so feel free to layer it on. You’re in control.

Step 5: Set (Optional, But Iconic)

This step is totally optional, but if you want even more staying power, mist on a setting spray like Translucent Hydrating Setting Spray Ultra Blur to lock everything in. It keeps the finish soft-matte—not dry—and helps your makeup last even longer in heat and humidity.

Touch-Up Without Ruining the Vibe

Here’s the beauty of powder: it’s made for touch-ups. Toss your compact in your bag and use the included applicator to press powder into any shiny areas throughout the day. No mess, no re-blending, just fresh skin on demand.

Why Real Flawless Feather Matte Powder Foundation?

• Controls oil for up to 16 hours
• Blurs texture, pores, and fine lines without drying you out
• Lightweight, breathable feel that looks like skin—not makeup