Choosing between matte and shimmer finishing powders depends on your skin type, the look you want, and the occasion. We'll look at makeup options first and then get into the sunless tanning finishing powders that Glow By Erin is known for.

Matte powders control oil, blur pores, and give a shine-free, photo-ready finish - perfect for oily skin, daytime events, or professional settings.

Shimmer powders, on the other hand, add a radiant glow with light-reflecting particles, ideal for dry or mature skin, evening looks, or special occasions.

Quick Comparison

For a balanced look, try blending both: use matte powders on oil-prone areas and shimmer on high points like cheekbones. Keep reading for detailed tips, application methods, and product recommendations.

Matte Finishing Powder Basics

Matte finishing powder is all about keeping shine under control and giving your makeup a polished, professional look. Here's a closer look at how it works and when to use it.

What’s in a Matte Powder?

The magic behind matte powder lies in ingredients like silica and oryza sativa (rice) starch. These work together to soak up excess oil and create a smooth, almost airbrushed finish. They also help blur the look of pores and fine lines, keeping your skin looking flawless throughout the day. Many newer formulas even include antioxidants to help shield your skin from daily environmental stressors.

When to Use Matte Powder

Matte powders are a go-to for keeping shine in check and enhancing your makeup. They’re particularly useful when paired with sunless tanning for a more polished look. A good matte powder can:

• Extend makeup wear for up to 16 hours.
• Reduce shine by about 50% throughout the day.

Things to Watch Out For

While matte powders are versatile, they’re not ideal for everyone. If you have dry or mature skin, using too much can make dry areas and fine lines more noticeable. Some common issues include:

• Caking if over-applied.
• A flat look that lacks dimension.
• Problems with flash photography.
• Increased dryness for certain skin types.

Knowing how and when to use matte powder can make all the difference in achieving a balanced, polished look.

Shimmer Finishing Powder Basics

Shimmer finishing powders bring a radiant glow to your makeup by using light-reflecting ingredients. Unlike matte powders, which focus on absorbing oil, shimmer powders add dimension and brightness while helping to set your makeup.

What’s in a Shimmer Powder?

These powders rely on light-reflecting particles like mica, pearl, and finely milled minerals. Sometimes, they’re enhanced with silica or titanium dioxide to create that glowing finish .

When to Use Shimmer Powder

Shimmer powders are perfect for giving your skin a natural, radiant look. Janeena Rumsey, Glo's Artistry Lead, describes loose shimmer powders as:

"a lightweight, luminous glow that supports makeup longevity"

They’re especially suited for:

• Evening events and formal occasions
• Professional photoshoots
• Bridal makeup
• Summer beauty routines
• Refreshing a dull complexion

For best results, use a large, fluffy brush to apply the powder to high points like your cheekbones, nose bridge, and forehead. A great example is the RMS Beauty "Un" Powder, which reflects light without adding noticeable texture or color . However, moderation is key - too much shimmer or using it on the wrong skin type can backfire.

Drawbacks of Shimmer Powder

While shimmer powders can enhance your look, they do come with a few downsides:

If you have oily skin, stick to applying shimmer powder only on specific areas you want to highlight to avoid an overly shiny appearance.

Quick Compare: Matte vs Shimmer

When deciding between matte and shimmer finishing powders, it’s all about understanding your skin type and the occasion. Matte offers better shine control, while shimmer adds a radiant glow.

Comparison Chart

A study by Glo Skin Beauty involving 500 participants revealed that matte powders reduced midday shine in 87% of individuals with oily skin, compared to just 32% for shimmer powders . This highlights the importance of selecting the right product for your skin's needs.

Makeup artists often recommend blending the two: use matte powders on oil-prone areas and shimmer on high points like cheekbones for a balanced, dimensional look .

Next, discover how to pair finishing powders with your sunless tanning routine.

Finishing Powders for Sunless Tanning

Finishing powders help set your self-tanner, reduce transfer, and prevent patchiness, giving you a smooth, long-lasting tan.

Matte Powder with Self-Tanner

Research shows that quality matte powders can cut down transfer to clothing by up to 85% . Here's how to use them effectively:

• Before tanning: Lightly dust translucent matte powder on oily areas to create a smooth surface.
• After application: Apply matte powder gently in circular motions.
• Touch-ups: Reapply to areas prone to creasing or sweating, like behind the knees or inner elbows.

For a reliable option, check out our Glow By Erin's Matte Finishing Powder, which is specially made for self-tanners.

Shimmer Powder with Self-Tanner

Shimmer powders take a different approach by adding a radiant, sun-kissed glow to your tan . Here's how to use them:

Application Tips and Methods

Get a smooth, polished look by using the proper tools and techniques for each type of powder. Makeup artist Wayne Goss suggests a pressing and rolling motion instead of sweeping to create an airbrushed effect .

Best Tools and Methods

High-quality synthetic brushes are essential for precise and even application. For example, customers love our Full Body Application Powder Brush for its soft bristles and ability to evenly distribute powder .

Here’s how to match tools and methods to different powders:

For shimmer powders, Patrick Ta advises using your fingertip to pat the product onto specific areas for a natural highlight .

Once you’ve mastered individual techniques, focus on blending matte and shimmer powders together for a seamless finish.

How to Mix Both Powder Types

To combine matte and shimmer powders effectively:

• Apply matte powder to the T-zone and areas prone to shine.
• Add shimmer powder to cheekbones and other high points.
• Use a clean brush to gently blend the edges for a soft transition.

Nam Vo’s popular "dewy dumpling" method is a great example of this balanced approach .

Makeup artist Lisa Eldridge offers a word of caution:

"Baking with matte powder can settle into fine lines and look heavy"

For a more pronounced shimmer, start with matte powder, then lightly dampen a clean sponge to press shimmer powder onto targeted areas .

To finish, Mario Dedivanovic often uses translucent powder to soften edges, creating a beautifully blended look .

Top Powder Products to Try

Our Glow By Erin finishing powders are specially formulated in both matte and shimmer options, designed specifically for sunless tanning. The Finishing Powder Jar & Brush Combo ($75.00) includes a talc-, paraben-, and allergen-free powder paired with a custom brush ($25.00) featuring soft, loose bristles for smooth, full-body application.

• The matte option helps reduce post-tan stickiness and creates a smooth, even finish without any scents.
• The shimmer option adds a subtle glow, enhancing your tan with a radiant touch that avoids looking overly glittery and still reduces post-tan stickiness.

Final Tips for Choosing Your Powder

Here are some final pointers to help you pick the right finishing powder for your needs.

Start by matching your powder to your skin type and the look you're after.

When it comes to different occasions, opt for matte during work hours to keep shine in check, and switch to shimmer for evenings or special events to add some extra dimension.

It’s always handy to have both matte and shimmer powders on hand to suit different occasions and skin needs. For a camera-ready look, layer matte powder as a base and add a light touch of shimmer to your high points.

For those looking to elevate their routine, try combining a matte base with shimmer applied strategically to areas like the cheekbones or brow bones. This technique adds depth and creates a polished, photo-friendly finish without going overboard.

Experiment with these tips to make finishing powder a seamless part of your makeup routine.

FAQs

Here are answers to common questions to help you choose and use finishing powders effectively.

What is the difference between matte and shimmer?

The main difference is in their finish and ingredients. Matte powders use oil-absorbing ingredients like silica or rice starch to create a flat, shine-free look. Shimmer powders, on the other hand, contain light-reflecting minerals like mica to give your skin a glowing, radiant appearance.

How do I choose between matte and shimmer for my skin type?

Your skin type can guide you in picking the right finishing powder:

Can I use both types of powder together?

Absolutely. Many people use both for a balanced look. Start with a matte powder to set your makeup and reduce shine, then add shimmer to specific areas like the cheekbones or brow bones for a natural glow.

How do finishing powders work with self-tanner?

Matte powders are great for setting self-tanner, leaving a smooth, even finish. Shimmer powders can then be used to highlight and enhance your tan, adding a subtle glow.

What's the best way to apply these powders?

How long do finishing powders typically last on the skin?

It depends on your skin type, the powder's formula, and your environment. Matte powders tend to last longer due to their oil-control properties, while shimmer powders may need touch-ups. Using a setting spray can help both stay in place longer.