5 Best Drugstore Translucent Powders - May 2026

BEST OF THE BEST

L'Oréal

Hydra Perfecte Perfecting Loose Powder

Perfects & Moisturizes

Hydrates, looks natural, and minimizes imperfections; does it all without looking heavy or pale.

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PROS

Has light-deflecting ingredients that blur lines, pores, and other imperfections.
Contains moisturizers for smooth application.
Only a small amount is needed.
Feels lightweight and doesn't look cakey.
Does a great job setting liquid foundation and cream products.

CONS

Has a light scent that may not please everyone.
Can be messy if you use the puff that comes with it.
A kabuki brush works better.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

CoverGirl

Clean Professional Loose Finishing Powder

Translucent Shade Range

Despite a few quirks, likely to become your go-to favorite if you like a little bit of sheer color and a very low price point.

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PROS

This popular loose powder has been a top seller for decades.
It delivers a soft, translucent finish with just a hint of sheer color.
Available in several translucent shades, so you'll never get a chalky finish.
Only takes a little powder to set the whole face.

CONS

Some users find the scent too strong.
Slightly messy to apply.
Has some fine shiny particles that won't appeal to all wearers.

Revlon

ColorStay Pressed Finishing Powder

Oil-absorbing

Revlon fans love that this also comes in a translucent shade. It blends well and works for most who try it.

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PROS

Provides a lightweight, matte finish that feels nice on the face and doesn't have any sheen.
The pressed formula is easy to apply with no mess.
Does a good job absorbing oil and preventing shine.
Oil-free formula that's ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types.

CONS

Looks chalky or too light on some complexions.
Doesn't last as long as other powders;
16-hour wear is questionable.

Coty

Airspun Loose Face Powder

The Test of Time

Comes in 2 translucent options and has gained a loyal customer base from decades of consistent wear.

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PROS

Produces a soft finish that absorbs oil and locks other makeup products in place.
Brand has longevity;
many wearers remember their mothers or grandmothers wearing it.
Affordable, but you get a lot of product for the price.

CONS

Some reports of breakouts.
Can be drying.
Has a strongly perfumed scent.
Messy.

Hourglass

Veil Translucent Setting Powder

Most Versatile

This truly translucent powder works well for a wide range of skin types and tones.

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PROS

Prevents oily skin from looking too shiny while keeping dry skin looking dewy and hydrated.
Powder feels lightweight and is truly translucent.
Great for setting: holds makeup in place all day without settling into fine lines and wrinkles.
Powder doesn't attach itself to dry patches on your skin.
Cruelty-free.

CONS

The sheer finish looks quite sparkly in natural light, a turnoff for some.

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First Reviewed

December 11, 2021

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Jennifer Manfrin

Updated March 2024

When it comes to setting liquid or cream makeup or blotting oil from your skin, face powder is a product that many makeup lovers can’t do without. But powders with pigment can be too heavy, and they can change the color of your foundation and concealer. To set makeup in place and keep shine under control without affecting the shade of your liquid and cream products, translucent powders do the trick. These colorless, or lightly tinted, face powders are meant to set your makeup, not add coverage. Most drugstore brands offer translucent powders in both pressed and loose formulas as well as different finishes that range from matte to a slight sheen. Loose powders give a lighter look, while pressed powders are ideal for on-the-go touchups.

Best Drugstore Translucent Powders

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

Pros and Cons

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