For many years, the goal of setting powder was strictly to eliminate shine, but the rise of the “glass skin” and “dewy” trends has introduced a new category: radiant or illuminating setting powders. These products are specifically formulated for individuals who want to set their makeup and increase its longevity without losing their natural glow. Unlike traditional powders that use matte fillers, radiant powders contain light-diffusing minerals and pearlescent pigments. These micro-shimmers are so fine that they don’t look like glitter on the face; instead, they catch the light and create a soft, ethereal luminosity that makes the skin look healthy and hydrated.
Radiant powders are a dream come true for those with dry or mature skin. Traditional matte powders can sometimes make skin look flat or accentuate wrinkles, but a radiant formula works to blur those same lines by reflecting light away from them. It gives the complexion a “lit-from-within” appearance that mimics the look of a fresh facial. This type of powder is often used by makeup artists to finish a look where the skin needs to look vibrant and youthful, especially for outdoor events or daytime photography where harsh mattes might look too heavy.
When applying radiant powder, the technique is slightly different. Instead of “baking” or heavy pressing, you generally want to use a soft, tapered brush to sweep the product over the high points of the face—the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, and the center of the forehead. This enhances the three-dimensional quality of your face. Because these powders are less about oil control and more about finishing, they are perfect for layering over cream blushes and highlighters to meld the products together into one seamless, glowing finish. If you’ve ever felt that powder makes you look “older,” switching to a radiant formula will likely change your perspective entirely, offering a sophisticated glow that stays put.
