Powder foundation is a must-have in your kikay kit. It effectively combats excess oils brought about by hot and humid days that we often encounter as we live in a country with a tropical climate. Aside from that, it is also less likely to clog your pores and is more comfortable to apply compared to its liquid counterparts.
Thanks to its easy-to-use compact form, you can also carry it with you anywhere, so if you ever find yourself in a sticky situation, you can quickly dab it on your face for a quick retouch. If you're ready to flaunt that shine-free look, read on as we've prepared some recommendations and thrown in a few guides to help you purchase your new kikay kit essential. Do not miss our buying guide reviewed by beauty professional Elaine Ganuelas!
Elaine Ganuelas has been living and breathing the life of all things beauty since childhood. What once started as her passion became her career in 2006. Now she does makeup, hairstyling, image consultation (yes, makeovers), personal shopping, consumer research, and reviews.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
Here are some key points to consider:
Choose a powder foundation suitable for your skin type.
Look for SPF 30 for added sun protection.
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Contrary to popular belief, powder foundations are not only for oily skin. Even if you have dry skin, you can find different formulations in the market that can cater to your skin type's unique needs. You just have to know what you should look for to select one that would go well with your skin type.
Those with dry skin are better off with powder foundation formulas that contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, amino acid, vitamin E, vitamin B5 (panthenol), and collagen. You can also find ones with natural ingredients, such as marigold and primrose extracts. These ingredients help retain the skin's natural moisture instead of drawing it away.
Although most powder foundations seem to be formulated with oily skin in mind due to their oil-absorbing properties, several powder foundations suitable for all skin types are also widely available on the market, so you can opt for these too.
Most powder foundations may go well with oily skin since they typically have oil-absorbing and mattifying properties. But if you want one that can address more concerns linked with the oily skin type, look for powder foundations with non-comedogenic formulas. These are also recommended for those with sensitive skin.
Non-comedogenic formulas do not cause pore blockages and breakouts, which can be highly beneficial for oily skin that tends to be prone to developing them. These non-comedogenic formulas usually have skin-healing and breakout-preventing ingredients, too, like salicylic acid.
Decoding the right foundation shade can be difficult since it may need some swatching to get the perfect match. You also need to consider your skin's undertone since it can make or break your whole look. For foundations, the general rule is: choose the foundation undertone based on your skin's undertone.
If the veins on your wrist come out as blue, you have a cool undertone. Go for the shade closest to your skin tone and have cool undertones as well. Aside from shades that you can try, there are also shades that you might want to avoid. For cool undertones, it might be best to avoid yellowish shades if you don't want to appear sallow.
On the other hand, green veins on your wrist indicate a warm undertone. Contrary to the effect of yellowish shades on those who have cool undertones, these warm hues can complement your warm undertone well. Lastly, if you catch sight of both blue and green veins on your wrist, you have a neutral undertone. Thus, you can opt for a foundation with a neutral undertone.
Another vital thing to consider when purchasing a foundation is the amount of coverage that you need. With the countless brands of powder foundation available on the market, you are also in for various coverage levels.
Powder foundations with light or sheer coverage are ideal for balancing your skin tone. You can use it to pull off the no-makeup look as it only provides a natural, breathable, and minimal layer. These are also perfect for people who dread the heavy feeling of makeup on their face.
Medium coverage is best for concealing minor skin troubles like blemishes while still maintaining your skin’s natural glow. It is also buildable, so you can easily layer it to reach full coverage or sheer it out with some moisturizer for a less prominent coat, depending on your makeup look for the day.
For days when sheer-to-medium coverage foundations fail to cover up the apparent lack of sleep or skin breakouts, full coverage foundations can save the day! This coverage is best for concealing more visible concerns like acne, dark circles, and skin discoloration.
It helps your skin look smooth and flawless, perfect if you’re out for a day-long social event or for a situation requiring you to be on camera. Full coverage foundations are often long-lasting and buildable too.
With the continuous advancements in the cosmetics world, plenty of cosmetics nowadays does not just focus on beautifying but also on taking care of your skin. Several powder foundations come with added layers of nourishments that aim to protect your skin from environmental stressors. Powder foundations with a sun protection factor are widely available on the market.
They can provide you with varying levels of SPF that can also offer different levels of protection from harmful UV rays. However, note that not all of them meet the recommended SPF 30, so it's best to think of them as extra protection only, and not solely rely on them. However, do keep in mind that these are not recommended for occasions where flash photography is present since they can show a "white cast."
From ₱2,700
This powder foundation does an excellent job of banishing blemishes and imperfections. With its Flexi-Fit Puzzle Complex innovation, you can get a flexible coverage that acts like a second skin. You won't have to worry about getting hulas midday, too, as it is water-resistant and can last up to 12 hours without caking, flaking, or fading.
It is also an excellent pick if you like to achieve a smooth and flawless complexion because, unlike other powder foundations, this one does not leave a chalky finish. Regardless of your skin type, this can be a good pick since its formula is breathable, and guaranteed not to clog your skin.
From ₱1,957
This powder foundation from Shiseido is a must-have on your beauty stash for its silky and lightweight texture that can blend seamlessly with your skin. Another thing we love about it is that its formula can resist anything, from oil, water to sweat, so you can be assured that it's long-lasting.
Its formula is also developed with exclusive SuperVeil-UV 360TM technology & ProfenseCELTM that protects your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays and helps reduce the appearance of photo-aging. Apart from that, it is non-comedogenic, making it suitable even for those with oily and sensitive skin.
From ₱1,699
If you're not a fan of heavy coverages, you might love this one by Youngblood. Unlike most foundations in the list, this one is composed of lightweight crushed powder that provides sheer coverage and a natural complexion with a translucent glow. With this, you won't have to worry about any heavy feeling since it is comfortable to wear.
Its formula is non-comedogenic, talc-free, and fragrance-free, so it's no surprise that many reviewers rave about how it does not irritate their skin and cause any breakouts. Apart from that, it is also long-lasting, allowing you to wear it all day. Another thing we love about it is that it is suitable for all skin types.
From ₱2,000
MAC is one of the real cult-favorite brands. Besides offering quality products, they foster inclusivity by catering to a very diverse range of skin tones. This inclusivity is very evident with their powder foundations, coming in a wide array of shades that are sure to match various skin colors and undertones.
In terms of longevity, this compact can grant your skin an ultra-matte finish up to 24 hours. Its formula is also non-drying and non-acnegenic, making it safe even for people who have dry and sensitive skin.
Additionally, it promises no cakey effect, creasing, and settling into fine lines. You can also count on it to prevent you from getting hulas as it is sweat-resistant! Flaunt your camera-ready skin with this compact powder from MAC.
From ₱349
If you are on the hunt for a foundation with a lightweight formula and natural finish, Maybelline's Fit Me Powder Foundation might be the right fit for you! It is easily one of the crowd favorites because of its refined micro velvet powders that perfectly blend with the skin’s texture, resulting in a poreless and smooth finish.
It's also a decent choice for those with oily skin since it is capable of absorbing oil to mattify the skin. This product is an excellent addition to your beauty stash if you love long-wear foundations but dread ones that make you look cakey. Its lightweight formula can last for up to 16 hours on your face without the cakey effect— keeping you looking fresh all day!
From ₱800
This foundation breaks the misconception that powder formulas are supposed to leave your skin dry, flaky, and matte. It has a moisturizing formula which contains collagen, amino acid, and hyaluronic acid responsible for giving your skin that dewy finish and juicy complexion.
It also gives your skin sun protection, anti-wrinkle, and whitening benefits. All these benefits are guaranteed to last long, as it claims to have a staying power that lasts for at least 30 hours. Moreover, its compact case houses a mesh that evenly dispenses the powder so that you can build it according to your desired coverage.
From ₱399
For an always camera-ready look, try this powder foundation from BLK Cosmetics that aims to give you a soft matte finish. It effectively conceals blemishes and blurs pores to give you a canvas-like and flawless look that requires no camera filter. Certainly, this is a perfect addition to the kikay kits of those who love to take selfies!
It is made of ultra-fine pigments that naturally blend with your skin and buildable formula that allows you to go for medium or full coverage, depending on your desired #MakeupOfTheDay. It does all that while also defending your skin against the sun and signs of aging— props to its Built-in SPF 15 PA++ and Vitamin E content.
From ₱2,744
This powder foundation is perfect for those who are often on-the-go. Instead of bringing your whole makeup stash with you, you can utilize this multi-purpose compact that can be worn as a foundation or a setting powder.
This oil-controlling foundation gives you a matte finish that you can opt to use for full-face makeup or midday touch-ups. Should you wish to use it as a setting powder, simply use a brush to sweep it over your face. Its long-wear formula is also non-acnegenic, so it is guaranteed that it will not clog your pores.
From ₱245
This powder foundation lets you attain a smooth and airbrushed finish with its soft texture that perfectly blends into your skin with ease. It does a good job of controlling excess oil and concealing various skin imperfections. It also has a buildable and lightweight formula that you can use either wet or dry.
The foundation also boasts its wide range of shade options that include attractive shades that flatter the Filipina skin tones. Other than that, it can shield your skin from the sun as it is formulated with SPF25. It is also made with safety in mind as it is paraben, vegan, and cruelty-free.
From ₱199
If your skin is on the oilier side, buying an affordable compact powder like this one can be a good option. With oilier skin, you're bound to make frequent trips to the washroom to touch up that oily T-zone, so it is wise to go for one that can accompany you to your maya't-mayang retouch without breaking your wallet.
It is also perfect if you're looking for a compact with long-staying power and has an excellent matte finish. This foundation can also be used in two ways, either wet or dry. You can use it wet for heavier coverage and dry if you wish to go for sheer.
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Although it sounds odd for some, it's possible to do it. Mixing the two formulations can especially come in handy for those with combination skin types who probably find it challenging to choose a single type of foundation.
To get the best of both worlds, you can mix the two by using powder foundation in oily spots and liquid formula in other areas around your face. You can also use a liquid foundation on your entire face, then finish off by dusting some powder foundation to score a full-coverage and oil-free finish.
Although less likely to harbor bacteria than their liquid counterparts, powder foundations also expire like other cosmetics. It is also possible to tell when your powder foundation is about to go "bad." If you start to notice hard rims on your compact powder, it is an indication that your foundation might have been excessively exposed to the oils from your skin.
It is recommended that you only keep them for up to 18 months. If you want to maximize their shelf life, make sure to close their lid shut after every use to prevent oxidation.
It is also crucial to ensure that you only use clean brushes or sponges when using them, so you can limit the amount of oil that ends up on your powder foundation. It is because these oils can cause them to oxidate or eventually harbor bacteria.
Your makeup base can either make or break your whole look. Here, we rounded up articles featuring makeup products that could help you create the ideal makeup base so that you can look fresh and protected all day long.
Author: R. Victoriano
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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