Powder Room
Dr Monica Jacob’s beginner-friendly guide to Korean skincare ingredients
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Let’s be real—when it comes to makeup, we’re all just trying to figure out what works best for our faces and our lives. Some days, a quick swipe of liquid blush and a dewy foundation is all it takes to feel put together. Other days, it’s powder everything because, well, shine control is a must. So, is one really better than the other, or is it all just personal preference? More importantly, beyond texture, what actually is the difference between powder and liquid products?
To settle the powder-versus-liquid debate once and for all (or at least make our next beauty haul a little easier), we tapped someone who knows both inside and out. Tanvi Marathe, a celebrity makeup artist and one of our expert panelists who’s worked her magic on red carpet regulars and A-listers. She broke it all down—when to use what, why some formulas suit certain skin types better and why your makeup bag might need both. Spoiler: it’s not about picking sides—it’s about playing smart.
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The foundation everyone is talking about—and for good reason. The TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Cushion delivers a lightweight yet flawless finish that lasts all day, all while packing SPF 40 PA++ for sun protection. It’s the ultimate gift for the beauty lover who’s always on trend. Not sure about their shade? The TIRA app lets you virtually swatch before you shop—so you can nail it on the first try.
This is the cushion foundation that had everyone scrambling to add it to their vanity. What’s the hype? Two words: shade precision. TirTir’s Cushion Foundation comes in 30 diverse shades, so your perfect match isn’t just a maybe—it’s basically guaranteed. But it doesn’t stop there. Expect high coverage that somehow feels barely there, intense hydration (dewy, not greasy), built-in sun protection and skin-forward ingredients that actually support your skincare goals. The foundation comes in a compact case, so you’re just a tap away from that glass-skin finish, wherever you are. And the kicker? This pore-blurring, glow-boosting foundation lasts up to 72 hours with a satin finish that feels like second skin.
If you’re all about a quick, even coverage, the TIRTIR cushion foundation is a must-have. It goes on smooth, feels lightweight and keeps your skin looking dewy through the day. We’re talking about a fuss-free finish that’s worth stocking up on for your busy mornings.
Powder vs. liquid makeup—same thing, right? Not quite. Their formulas do very different things. As Marathe explains, “Powder formulations typically offer a matte finish with light to medium coverage, making them ideal for a natural look.” Think soft-focus, shine-free, and fuss-free. Meanwhile, “Liquid formulations provide buildable coverage from medium to full, delivering a dewy or satin finish,” she adds. In other words: more flexibility, more glow.
But knowing what they do is just the start—let’s talk about who they’re actually best for.
Not all foundations are created equal, especially when it comes to your skin type. If your liquid foundation disappears by noon or your powder leaves your skin feeling parched, you know the struggle.
"For oily skin, powder makeup helps absorb excess oil, reduces shine, and provides a matte appearance," says Marathe. Dry skin? Stick to liquid formulas. “Liquid formulations are preferable for dry skin as they offer hydration, preventing makeup from accentuating dry patches.”
For acne-prone skin, she recommends keeping it lightweight: “Non-comedogenic liquid foundations can provide necessary coverage without clogging pores.” And if you’ve got combination skin? “Both formulations can be used—liquid foundation on dry areas and powder on oily zones," she suggests.
Just remember: Your skin type calls the shots—choose accordingly.
Ever had your makeup cling to dry patches or settle into fine lines? Blame the prep—or lack of it. And yes, prepping differs for powder and liquid makeup.
Marathe breaks it down, “For powder makeup, ensure the skin is well-moisturised to prevent the product from clinging to dry patches. A hydrating moisturiser creates a smooth base.” As for liquid formulas? “Using a moisturiser suited to your skin type—gel-based for oily skin or cream-based for dry skin—can enhance longevity and finish.”
Once your skin is prepped, application is everything. If your makeup looks cakey or uneven, it’s probably time to swap your tools. Tanvi’s pro tip? “For powder makeup, a fluffy brush is ideal for even distribution and blending. For liquid makeup, a damp makeup sponge offers a natural, dewy finish, while a dense synthetic brush provides fuller coverage.”
Short answer? Absolutely. Some of the best makeup routines mix both for a flawless finish. The secret? Layering in the right order.
Here’s how Marathe does it, “Apply liquid foundation first, set it lightly with a translucent powder to lock it in place, and then add powder-based products like blush or bronzer.” She further adds, “This technique helps achieve a balanced finish and enhances makeup durability.” Basically, liquids create the base, powders keep it in place. If your makeup tends to disappear by midday, a little powder might be the fix.
We’ve all been there—foundation that doesn’t match, too much product, or the dreaded cakey finish. The good news? These slip-ups are easy to avoid.
Master one formula before mixing: Tempted to try everything at once? Marathe suggests otherwise. “Begin with one formulation type to understand its application and finish before experimenting with combinations.” It’ll help you get the hang of things before layering like a pro.
Light layers are key: One of the biggest beginner mistakes? Piling on too much product. “Apply makeup in light layers, building up to the desired coverage to avoid a cakey appearance,” says Marathe. Whether it’s foundation, blush, or bronzer—less is more.
Avoid the foundation mismatch: That telltale foundation line where your face is one colour and your neck is another? “Always match your foundation to your neck to avoid noticeable lines,” Marathe advises. Blending past your jawline is non-negotiable.
At the end of the day, powder vs. liquid isn’t about picking sides—it’s about knowing which formula serves you best. Powder is your go-to on a humid day when shine control is key. Liquid is your pick when you want that smooth, dewy glow. And the real beauty hack? Learning to use them together for a long-wearing, seamless finish.
So go ahead, experiment. Swap textures. Layer strategically. Because the best makeup routine isn’t about rules—it’s about finding what works for you. And now, you’ve got the expert tips to make every choice a winning one.
Powder vs. liquid makeup—same thing, right? Not quite. Their formulas do very different things. As Marathe explains, “Powder formulations typically offer a matte finish with light to medium coverage, making them ideal for a natural look.” Think soft-focus, shine-free, and fuss-free. Meanwhile, “Liquid formulations provide buildable coverage from medium to full, delivering a dewy or satin finish,” she adds. In other words: more flexibility, more glow.
But knowing what they do is just the start—let’s talk about who they’re actually best for.
Not all foundations are created equal, especially when it comes to your skin type. If your liquid foundation disappears by noon or your powder leaves your skin feeling parched, you know the struggle.
"For oily skin, powder makeup helps absorb excess oil, reduces shine, and provides a matte appearance," says Marathe. Dry skin? Stick to liquid formulas. “Liquid formulations are preferable for dry skin as they offer hydration, preventing makeup from accentuating dry patches.”
For acne-prone skin, she recommends keeping it lightweight: “Non-comedogenic liquid foundations can provide necessary coverage without clogging pores.” And if you’ve got combination skin? “Both formulations can be used—liquid foundation on dry areas and powder on oily zones," she suggests.
Just remember: Your skin type calls the shots—choose accordingly.
Ever had your makeup cling to dry patches or settle into fine lines? Blame the prep—or lack of it. And yes, prepping differs for powder and liquid makeup.
Marathe breaks it down, “For powder makeup, ensure the skin is well-moisturised to prevent the product from clinging to dry patches. A hydrating moisturiser creates a smooth base.” As for liquid formulas? “Using a moisturiser suited to your skin type—gel-based for oily skin or cream-based for dry skin—can enhance longevity and finish.”
Once your skin is prepped, application is everything. If your makeup looks cakey or uneven, it’s probably time to swap your tools. Tanvi’s pro tip? “For powder makeup, a fluffy brush is ideal for even distribution and blending. For liquid makeup, a damp makeup sponge offers a natural, dewy finish, while a dense synthetic brush provides fuller coverage.”
Short answer? Absolutely. Some of the best makeup routines mix both for a flawless finish. The secret? Layering in the right order.
Here’s how Marathe does it, “Apply liquid foundation first, set it lightly with a translucent powder to lock it in place, and then add powder-based products like blush or bronzer.” She further adds, “This technique helps achieve a balanced finish and enhances makeup durability.” Basically, liquids create the base, powders keep it in place. If your makeup tends to disappear by midday, a little powder might be the fix.
We’ve all been there—foundation that doesn’t match, too much product, or the dreaded cakey finish. The good news? These slip-ups are easy to avoid.
Master one formula before mixing: Tempted to try everything at once? Marathe suggests otherwise. “Begin with one formulation type to understand its application and finish before experimenting with combinations.” It’ll help you get the hang of things before layering like a pro.
Light layers are key: One of the biggest beginner mistakes? Piling on too much product. “Apply makeup in light layers, building up to the desired coverage to avoid a cakey appearance,” says Marathe. Whether it’s foundation, blush, or bronzer—less is more.
Avoid the foundation mismatch: That telltale foundation line where your face is one colour and your neck is another? “Always match your foundation to your neck to avoid noticeable lines,” Marathe advises. Blending past your jawline is non-negotiable.
At the end of the day, powder vs. liquid isn’t about picking sides—it’s about knowing which formula serves you best. Powder is your go-to on a humid day when shine control is key. Liquid is your pick when you want that smooth, dewy glow. And the real beauty hack? Learning to use them together for a long-wearing, seamless finish.
So go ahead, experiment. Swap textures. Layer strategically. Because the best makeup routine isn’t about rules—it’s about finding what works for you. And now, you’ve got the expert tips to make every choice a winning one.
Powder vs. liquid makeup—same thing, right? Not quite. Their formulas do very different things. As Marathe explains, “Powder formulations typically offer a matte finish with light to medium coverage, making them ideal for a natural look.” Think soft-focus, shine-free, and fuss-free. Meanwhile, “Liquid formulations provide buildable coverage from medium to full, delivering a dewy or satin finish,” she adds. In other words: more flexibility, more glow.
But knowing what they do is just the start—let’s talk about who they’re actually best for.
Not all foundations are created equal, especially when it comes to your skin type. If your liquid foundation disappears by noon or your powder leaves your skin feeling parched, you know the struggle.
"For oily skin, powder makeup helps absorb excess oil, reduces shine, and provides a matte appearance," says Marathe. Dry skin? Stick to liquid formulas. “Liquid formulations are preferable for dry skin as they offer hydration, preventing makeup from accentuating dry patches.”
For acne-prone skin, she recommends keeping it lightweight: “Non-comedogenic liquid foundations can provide necessary coverage without clogging pores.” And if you’ve got combination skin? “Both formulations can be used—liquid foundation on dry areas and powder on oily zones," she suggests.
Just remember: Your skin type calls the shots—choose accordingly.
Ever had your makeup cling to dry patches or settle into fine lines? Blame the prep—or lack of it. And yes, prepping differs for powder and liquid makeup.
Marathe breaks it down, “For powder makeup, ensure the skin is well-moisturised to prevent the product from clinging to dry patches. A hydrating moisturiser creates a smooth base.” As for liquid formulas? “Using a moisturiser suited to your skin type—gel-based for oily skin or cream-based for dry skin—can enhance longevity and finish.”
Once your skin is prepped, application is everything. If your makeup looks cakey or uneven, it’s probably time to swap your tools. Tanvi’s pro tip? “For powder makeup, a fluffy brush is ideal for even distribution and blending. For liquid makeup, a damp makeup sponge offers a natural, dewy finish, while a dense synthetic brush provides fuller coverage.”
Short answer? Absolutely. Some of the best makeup routines mix both for a flawless finish. The secret? Layering in the right order.
Here’s how Marathe does it, “Apply liquid foundation first, set it lightly with a translucent powder to lock it in place, and then add powder-based products like blush or bronzer.” She further adds, “This technique helps achieve a balanced finish and enhances makeup durability.” Basically, liquids create the base, powders keep it in place. If your makeup tends to disappear by midday, a little powder might be the fix.
We’ve all been there—foundation that doesn’t match, too much product, or the dreaded cakey finish. The good news? These slip-ups are easy to avoid.
Master one formula before mixing: Tempted to try everything at once? Marathe suggests otherwise. “Begin with one formulation type to understand its application and finish before experimenting with combinations.” It’ll help you get the hang of things before layering like a pro.
Light layers are key: One of the biggest beginner mistakes? Piling on too much product. “Apply makeup in light layers, building up to the desired coverage to avoid a cakey appearance,” says Marathe. Whether it’s foundation, blush, or bronzer—less is more.
Avoid the foundation mismatch: That telltale foundation line where your face is one colour and your neck is another? “Always match your foundation to your neck to avoid noticeable lines,” Marathe advises. Blending past your jawline is non-negotiable.
At the end of the day, powder vs. liquid isn’t about picking sides—it’s about knowing which formula serves you best. Powder is your go-to on a humid day when shine control is key. Liquid is your pick when you want that smooth, dewy glow. And the real beauty hack? Learning to use them together for a long-wearing, seamless finish.
So go ahead, experiment. Swap textures. Layer strategically. Because the best makeup routine isn’t about rules—it’s about finding what works for you. And now, you’ve got the expert tips to make every choice a winning one.
