Makeup is truly an art form, with so many different products, tools and techniques that all help to keep a makeup artist's job so easy and fun. Of the near-limitless options of products to work with, powder is one of the most consistent. Powder serves as such a staple product to help cut shine and leave a soft finish on the skin, so I've rounded up a few of my favorite face powders just for you. Let's start playing!

Translucent/Pressed Powders. These powders are ideal for blotting oil and shine on the face. With little to no color, they provide a sheen that is just matte enough to hide shine, while still looking natural. These are a great option to carry in your handbag for touch-ups throughout the day.

Product Picks: MAC Pressed Blot Powder, Maybelline "Fit Me" Pressed Powder , Yves Saint Laurent Poudre Compacte Radiance Powder

Loose Powders. Most loose powders are finely milled, giving them the silkiest of textures. Loose powders are best applied with a powder brush on the face and can be used to give a little more coverage than translucent powder. Loose powder is great for highlighting and can also be used to prevent creasing on the eyelid from eye shadow.

Product Picks: Urban Decay Naked Skin Ultra Definition Loose Finishing Powder , Ben Nye Luxury Loose Powder, L'Oréal True Match Naturale Soft-Focus Mineral Loose Powder

Foundation Powders. This type of powder will give the most coverage and normally can be applied wet or dry depending on the level of coverage you are looking for. When applied dry, they give medium to full coverage, and when applied wet they give full coverage. Some foundation powders even come with SPF in them, which you won't find in most translucent or pressed powders.

Product Picks: Lancôme Dual Finish Foundation Powder , NARS Powder Foundation

What are some of your favorite powders, and how do you use them? I'd love to hear from you!

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