If you’ve ever found yourself wondering why your makeup looks oily just a few hours into the festivities despite all your touch-ups, you might want to take a closer look at your compact powder. That small, seemingly harmless item in your makeup bag could be the reason behind the unwanted shine that appears on your skin, especially during the festive season when we all want our makeup to last!
Secret Behind Compact Powders
Let’s start with the basics. Compact powders, also known as pressed powders, are powders that have been compressed into a solid form for convenience. To achieve this solid, portable form, manufacturers use liquid binders—essentially ingredients that help hold the powder together. These binders can be made of various components like oils, waxes, or silicones. While these binders are essential for the powder to maintain its shape and consistency, they can sometimes be the reason your makeup becomes oily.
When these binders come into contact with your skin, especially in hot or humid conditions like those often experienced during the festive season, they can interact with your skin’s natural oils. This is particularly true if you have oily or combination skin. The powder might look and feel mattifying when you first apply it, but as time goes on, the binder’s oils start to break down, mixing with your skin’s oils and causing that unwanted shiny appearance.
Why the Festive Season Makes It Worse
During the festive season which typically takes place in the month of October (a humid time in cities like Mumbai and Kolkata), we’re often on the go, rushing from event to event, dancing, and spending time in crowded or warm spaces. All of this activity can lead to increased sweating and oil production, making it more likely for your makeup to break down. The liquid binder in your compact powder becomes more active when it comes into contact with this extra moisture and heat, causing your face to appear oily instead of staying matte.
The texture and formulation of compact powders can also vary widely between brands. Some powders are more oil-absorbent, while others may contain hydrating agents or emollients that are meant to give the skin a natural glow but might not be suitable for oily skin types. If you’re using a compact powder that’s meant for dry or normal skin, it may not hold up well if your skin becomes oily throughout the day.
Also Read: What Is Inknut Powder And How Can It Brighten Your Under-Eyes?
Loose Powders vs. Compact Powders: Which Is Better?
Loose powders, on the other hand, don’t contain these liquid binders. They are pure, finely milled powder that doesn’t need to be pressed or held together, which makes them a fantastic option for people with oily skin. Because they lack the binding agents, they don’t have that extra oil-producing component that can interact with your skin and cause shine. Loose powders are great for setting makeup in place without adding any excess oil, making them ideal for absorbing oil and providing a longer-lasting matte finish.
However, loose powders can be a bit tricky to use on the go—they’re messier and less portable than their compact counterparts. But if you know you’re going to be outdoors or in humid conditions for an extended time, it might be worth making the switch to keep your skin looking fresh and shine-free.
Also Read: Why Loose Powder Is The Only Way To Go When It Comes To Baking Your Makeup