Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder Review: Why It's Still the #1 Setting Powder in the US
I've worked as a professional makeup artist for over a decade, and there's one product that has never left my kit: Laura Mercier's Translucent Loose Setting Powder. With nearly 10,000 reviews and a 4.7/5 rating, this is genuinely the most-requested setting powder I get asked about — and for good reason.
The Product
Price: $43. Available in 4 shades (including the iconic Translucent). This talc-free powder delivers 24-hour shine control and a soft-focus matte finish that blurs imperfections without looking cakey. Laura Mercier describes it as the #1 Loose Setting Powder in the US* — and the sales figures back that claim up completely.
Why Makeup Artists Love It
The powder is ultra-finely milled — it disappears onto the skin rather than sitting on top of it. The Translucent shade genuinely works across most skin tones without leaving a white cast. I've used it on clients ranging from fair to deep, and it flatters everyone. The 16-hour hydrating wear formula means it doesn't dry out mature or dry skin the way cheaper setting powders tend to.
How to Apply It
The classic method is to press it in with a velour puff using the "baking" technique, hold for 3–5 minutes, then dust off the excess. For a lighter application, a large fluffy brush works beautifully. Either way, the result is the same: shine-free, long-lasting, photographable skin.
Pros & What to Know
What I love: Universal Translucent shade, no white cast, lightweight and breathable, genuinely extends makeup wear, works on all skin types including dry and mature. The 24-hour shine control claim holds up in real-world conditions.
Worth knowing: The jar packaging can get messy if you travel with it — tap carefully. The Ultra-Blur version (also $48) is great if you want extra pore-blurring action.
Verdict
After years of testing every setting powder on the market, I keep coming back to Laura Mercier. At $43 it's not the cheapest option — but it's the one that consistently delivers. Use code WELCOME20 for 20% off your first order.
Popular Blog
