Desire "Angel" skin? This frequently ignored makeup item serves as a tulle veil suitable for all skin tones.

      We've been in the era of radiant "glass skin" for quite a while now. Numerous makeup products are packed with skin-friendly ingredients that boost radiance (and we're not complaining!). Highlighters reminiscent of 2016 are making a comeback. However, in our quest for sun-kissed skin, it's easy to overlook a crucial step that can extend the wear of your makeup threefold and leave your skin looking, we assure you, "angelic." This essential product is translucent powder. "Translucent powder is a finely milled, pigment-free powder that sets makeup and prevents creasing and transfer," explains Tasha Reiko Brown, a celebrity makeup artist and Who What Wear editor in residence. She adds that applying this invisible powder over cream and liquid products, such as foundation and concealer, essentially locks in your look for hours of perfection. "The final result is slightly blurring and soft-focused," she notes. A simple application to the center of your face and a gentle sweep under your eyes (if you're using concealer) is all that's needed.

      If you find yourself reminiscing about the overly matte skin of the King Kylie era, there's no need to worry. Translucent powders—available in both loose and pressed forms—have evolved significantly over the past decade. After extensive testing and expert consultation, we have identified the top 10 translucent powders available in 2025. Below, discover the only powders you’ll need for a bridal-worthy, angelic complexion.

      The Best Translucent Powders, at a Glance:

      - Best Overall: Laura Mercier Ultra-Blur Translucent Loose Setting Powder

      - Best Budget: Airspun Loose Powder Translucent

      - Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Paris Infallible Blur-fection Longwear Loose Setting Powder

      - Best Pore-Blurring: Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder

      - Best for Oily Skin: One/Size Ultimate Blurring Setting Powder

      **Best Overall: Laura Mercier Ultra-Blur Translucent Loose Setting Powder**

      Pros: Inclusive shades, blurs pores, no flashback in photos

      Cons: Has a slight sheen

      Size: 0.7 oz. | Formula: Loose powder | Shades: 3 | Finish: Natural, matte | Talc-free: Yes

      When you think of translucent powders or setting powders, Laura Mercier likely comes to mind. This talc-free, improved version of the brand's original formula retains its signature qualities: an ultra-light consistency, makeup-extending properties, and excellent shine control, all without harmful ingredients or an overly matte appearance. This versatile, natural-finish powder elevates any look with just a few applications. Almost all our beauty team members (including Brown) endorse Laura Mercier’s translucent powder for its smooth application, even on uneven skin textures and fine lines. It comes in three translucent shades to blend seamlessly with a variety of skin tones (since fair powders often do not suit deeper skin tones), which Brown considers vital in a finishing powder. "I often choose brands with a couple of options within their translucent powder range to achieve complete invisibility," she explains. The only point of contention among users is the micro-pearl pigments—some feel it appears glittery rather than luminous. However, we find that it creates a “healthy matte” look, as opposed to the flat results of the past.

      Customer review: “The BEST setting powder out there!! Blurring, smooth, and not cakey whatsoever. Worth every penny and one of my holy grails.”

      **Best Budget: Airspun Loose Powder Translucent**

      Pros: Affordable, ultra-light, absorbs oil

      Cons: Limited shade range, has a fragrance

      Size: 1.2 oz. | Formula: Loose powder | Shades: 4 | Finish: Matte | Talc-free: Yes

      Airspun's lightweight, texture-smoothing translucent powder has long been recognized as one of the best loose powders and competes with higher-end brands for a much lower price. The talc-free formula smooths your skin while securing makeup for shine-free wear all day, costing only $7. However, it should be noted that while it comes in a few translucent variants, it could benefit from additional options for darker skin tones.

      Customer review: "This powder has been around for years, and now I get why. The Airspun Loose Face Powder sets my makeup beautifully and keeps shine under control all day. It feels lightweight on the skin and gives a smooth, soft finish without looking cakey. A little goes a long way, so the container lasts forever, offering great value. It does have a noticeable fragrance, but it fades quickly and hasn’t irritated my skin. Overall, a classic product that delivers fantastic results at an affordable price. Highly recommend!"

      **Best Drugstore: L'Oréal Paris Infallible Blur-fection Longwear Loose Setting Powder**

      Pros: Blurs pores and