
Guide to the use of baked powder
What it is, what it's for, and why to choose it for bright, long-lasting make-up
April 23rd, 2025
If you, too, can’t live without your face powder and carry it with you everywhere, just like Blair Waldorf, you’re in the right place. The Gossip Girl icon never parted with her beloved Chanel powder, pulling it out of her handbag to touch up her make-up at every opportunity - from her bedroom to a mega party. Like a magical treasure chest, powder holds a secret inside, and the compact, complete with a mirror, reflects our glow right back at us. But let’s be honest: owning such a treasure without knowing how to use it is a real waste.

So grab a pen and paper—this tip is worth jotting down. Lately, social media can’t stop talking about baked powders. But what exactly are they? Imagine that feeling of flawless, radiant, silky skin. That’s the magic of baked powders. Forget heavy, dull powders: these wonders are created through a special baking process that makes them ultra-light and radiant. Think intense, luminous pigments that blend effortlessly and last all day. Baked powder is a brilliant hybrid: it sets your makeup like a regular powder, but adds that glowy touch that makes your complexion pop.
@thelipsticklesbians Replying to @The Lipstick Lesbians baked powders have a different texutre than traditional pressed powder. Key to know here is manufacturing procedures matter, and this affects how the powders feel. In the case of baked, they’re typically smoother and silk like which translates on skin. These @Hourglass Cosmetics limited edition Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked Palettes in particular are sheer, with a soft radiance. I recommend applying with a loose fluffy brush. I prefer smaller than the one out on display to give more control personally. But the choice is always yours! #makeup #beauty #hourglasscosmetics #thelipsticklesbians original sound - The Lipstick Lesbians
The origins and history of baked powder
Many beauty brands are now embracing this product, even creating full face palettes, like the one from Sephora, featuring blush, bronzer, and highlighter all in one vegan and super chic compact. With their silky texture, they ensure that "bonne mine" glow. We could also mention Kiko Milano and its Radiant Fusion Baked Powder, promising smooth application and radiant, polished skin—not to mention the iconic Jeux De Luminèrs by Chanel. But this makeup hack has deeper historical roots. Among lace, wigs, and beauty secrets, baked powder was born. Legend has it the idea came from the legendary Marie Antoinette and her friend Marie de la Vieuville, who wanted a magical powder to create porcelain skin, a symbol of nobility and refinement. The result? A silky, luminous powder produced through a secret baking process, flaunted like a luxury accessory by the stars of the era. In recent times, "baked" makeup is making a stylish comeback.
Is baked powder worth it for your makeup look?
Unlike traditional face powders, which are lighter and easier to apply, baked powders have a more compact texture created by a baking process that gives them a denser, softer consistency. This results in a smoother, more even and long-lasting finish that blends perfectly with the skin without caking or highlighting imperfections. One of the baked powder’s greatest advantages is its ability to adapt to the skin, offering a matte effect that doesn’t dry the face out but leaves it radiant and natural. Its formula is ideal for dry or combination skin, as it doesn’t create a chalky look. Plus, this product has excellent staying power, holding up throughout the day without constant touch-ups. If you’re after a more long-lasting base without giving up that fresh, natural appearance, baked powder is definitely the right choice. Its soft, velvety texture is perfect for those wanting light but effective coverage, with a flawless finish. Baked powder isn’t just for setting your makeup—it’s a real ally to enhance your overall look. For a natural glowy effect, apply it with a soft brush on the cheekbones, temples, and cupid’s bow. If you want a more polished look, sweep it evenly over your entire face. For a light contouring effect, opt for a shade slightly darker than your skin tone and apply under the cheekbones and along the sides of your nose. If you prefer a matte effect, traditional powder might be better suited for you. Remember: baked powder is buildable, so you can layer or diffuse the color depending on the desired effect. Now it’s time to experiment and find your perfect look.