17 Best Setting Powders for Dark Skin: Get Ready to Look Flawless

Written by Sayantani Deb, Makeup & Beauty Writer
Updated on Apr 04, 2024
Best Setting Powders for Dark Skin: Get Ready to Look Flawless
Best Setting Powders for Dark Skin: Get Ready to Look Flawless
The products curated for this article are independently chosen by the editorial team. If you make a purchase through the links mentioned below, we may receive a commission. Check out our product research & curation process

Setting powder is a must-have in any makeup bag. It’s the perfect way to help keep your makeup looking fresh and flawless all day long. But finding the best setting powder for dark skin can be a tricky task with so many great options out there. Try experimenting with different shades and formulas to find the perfect one for you. With the perfect one, your makeup will stay looking flawless all day long!

Over the years, we’ve seen many celebrities speak out about the importance of using the right setting powder for dark skin. Kylie Jenner says "Using setting powder for dark skin is a must. It helps to keep your foundation in place, and it also blurs any imperfections. It's really a great way to finish off a look."

We’ve done the research for you! Our top 17 selection will help you find the one that will keep your makeup on lockdown and your skin looking beautiful. Read on to find out which setting powders are the perfect match for your dark skin tone!

17 Best Setting Powders for Dark Skin

Creating an airbrushed soft focus effect on your skin without having to book an appointment with a celebrity makeup artist is now possible with the HUDA Beauty setting powder. This non-messy powder helps to conceal fine lines, tighten open pores, and even out photo-induced discoloration without making the makeup look very loud or cakey. Moreover, the product provides a long-lasting natural matte finish and is robustly immune to transfer, smudge, and sweat release, making it a reliable choice in the category of the best setting powders for dark skin. 

Pros
  • Compatible with both brush and sponge
  • Minimum fallout
  • Alluring fragrance
  • Non-cakey finish
Cons
  • May cause allergies on sensitive skin
  • Best for Oily Skin

    Anastasia Beverly Hills Loose Setting Powder - Golden Orange

    Anastasia Beverly Hills Loose Setting Powder - Golden Orange
  • While the shade Golden Orange works well for various dark skin tones, the texture of this setting powder is the real deal that sets it apart. The so-called “powder” formula has a silky consistency, which is almost creamy and feels delightful when applied to the skin. For the same reason, this powder is easily blendable; hence, you don’t need much when using it to set the makeup in place simply. While the translucent powder won’t tamper with the color of your foundation, it’ll still spruce your complexion by color-correcting it in places. So, all in all — an excellent pick!

    Pros
    • Smooth and pillowy
    • Light and flawless finish
    • Diffuses imperfections
    • Reduces excess sheen
    Cons
    • Doesn’t come with an applicator
  • Best for Mature skin

    Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

    Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
  • A velvety satin finish is what complements perfectly curated makeup. In tandem, the Laura Mercier Loose setting powder leaves no stone unturned to ensure the same. It is best suited for acing the no-makeup makeup look as well as the regular workwear look because it does not get cakey, smudgey, or settle into lines. Instead, it provides an organic translucent finish and a super smooth easy blendable texture that makes it compatible with blushes, contours, foundations, and bronzers. Moreover, it contains a considerable amount of vitamin E that locks in moisture and is hence one of the non-negotiable choices for people living in extreme climates. Trust us, after having bought this product once, you shall remain indebted to Laura Mercier the mastermind behind introducing this product to the beauty industry. 

    Pros
    • Best for deep skin tones
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Inhibits oil release
    • Blurs fine lines
    Cons
    • Some products have faulty packaging
  • Best for All Ages

    Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Setting Powder

     Fenty Beauty Pro Filt'r Instant Retouch Setting Powder
  • Achieving an Instagram filter level of perfection is now possible with this setting powder by Fenty Beauty. The product tactfully conceals visible imperfections and provides a hyper-smooth finish without making the base look too overwhelming. It is well deserving of the Allure Best of Beauty Award because it helps to inhibit oil release, is weightless in nature, and just takes a few moments to settle onto your skin. Furthermore, it is available in an alluring range of eight perfect shades to cater to all kinds of skin tones and textures. To conclude, as an Amazon reviewer rightly said, “It does not mess around even on a hot sunny day making the face look like a glazed doughnut but simultaneously assures robust amounts of hydration without breaking or getting patchy.”

    Pros
    • Best for combination skin
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Cruelty-free
    • Vegan
    Cons
    • Tends to get chalky
  • Best with SPF

    bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation - Neutral Deep

    bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation - Neutral Deep
  • To top your makeup with the added goodness of sun protection, try out this loose makeup powder by bareMinerals. The color pigments of this product are so intense that you can use it as the only base makeup and call it a day — and as a setting powder, it upgrades the foundation by concealing imperfections and making your skin look flawless. Of all its shades suitable for dark skin, Neutral Deep blends well with all undertones. Besides, to let you in on a secret — the product melts onto your skin like a super silky cream!

    Pros
    • Allows the skin’s pores to breathe
    • Doesn’t irritate sensitive skin
    • Lightweight and comfortable
    • Impressive staying power
    • Tones down redness
    • Buildable coverage
    Cons
    • The finish may be too shiny
  • Best Overall

    Sacha BUTTERCUP Setting Powder

    Sacha BUTTERCUP Setting Powder
  • Say goodbye to skin that looks dull and cakey with the Sacha Buttercup Setting Powder. This innovative product is designed to give you a flawless look with a soft, lightweight finish. It features a unique blend of natural, plant-based ingredients that absorb excess oil, reduce shine, and blur imperfections. Plus, its creamy texture won't leave a white cast on your skin. Whether you need to set your makeup after a long night out or just want to add some extra coverage and shine control, this is the perfect choice.

    Pros
    • Natural ingredients
    • Safe and non-irritating
    • Noncomedogenic
    • Blends naturally
    • Matte finish
    • Blurs fine lines and pores
    Cons
    • Can be messy
    • A tight and uncomfortable feeling
  • Most Long-Lasting

    Dermablend Loose Setting Powder

    Dermablend Loose Setting Powder
  • Dermablend Loose Setting Powder is a weightless, long-lasting powder that won't cake up on your skin. This powder is designed to absorb excess oil and help set your makeup, while providing a smooth, natural finish. It also helps to reduce shine, minimize the appearance of pores, and keep your makeup in place all day. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or normal skin, this setting powder is suitable for all skin types. Find out how it can give you a flawless complexion and why it's worth investing in!

    Pros
    • Dermatologist tested
    • High-performance pigments
    • Cruelty-free
    • Transfer-resistant
    • Lasts up to 16 hours
    • Worth the money
    Cons
    • Does not cover blemishes
    • Not matte enough
  • Best Luminous Finish

    Black Radiance True Complexion Loose Setting Powder- Banana

    Black Radiance True Complexion Loose Setting Powder- Banana
  • Discover the secret to a flawlessly smooth, matte finish with Black Radiance True Complexion Loose Setting Powder in Banana. This incredible powder is designed to keep makeup in place all day long and give you a smooth, matte finish that looks perfect in any light. With its light-diffusing properties, this powder will help blur out any imperfections and give you a natural-looking complexion. Whether you're looking to add a subtle hint of color or want something a bit more dramatic, this setting powder will provide a perfect finish for any makeup look.

    Pros
    • Formulated with light-reflecting particles
    • Minimizes skin imperfections
    • Brightens complexion
    • Blends effortlessly
    • Lightweight
    • Gluten-free
    Cons
    • Not ideal for all skin tones
    • Rough packaging
  • Travel-Friendly

    Aesthetica Translucent Setting Powder

    Aesthetica Translucent Setting Powder
  • Aesthetica Translucent Setting Powder is a must-have for any makeup enthusiast! This innovative powder provides a matte finish, helping to blur the appearance of imperfections and make your makeup last all day. This versatile powder is perfect for setting foundation, brightening, and creating a flawless complexion. With its lightweight formulation, it's easy to use, and it won't cake or crease. Discover the ultimate finishing touch for your makeup routine and experience the power of this amazing setting powder today!

    Pros
    • Vegan and cruelty-free
    • Paraben free formula
    • Absorbs excess oil
    • Smooth finish
    • Versatile
    • Travel-friendly
    Cons
    • A bit pale
    • Sheer coverage
  • Decently Priced

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mineral Matte Finishing Powder- Medium/Dark

    NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mineral Matte Finishing Powder- Medium/Dark
  • From an airbrushed look to a natural glow, NYX Professional Makeup's Mineral Matte Finishing Powder - Medium/Dark can help you achieve the perfect look. With its lightweight formula, this powder is designed to control oil and provide a long-lasting, natural matte finish. Whether you're looking for a light dusting of product, this powder is sure to provide a beautiful, natural-looking finish. So enhance your makeup look with it. This product has you covered!

    Pros
    • Vegan formula
    • Does not look powdery
    • Great for oily skin
    • No breakouts
    • Blends nicely
    • Decently priced
    Cons
    • Coverage is sheer
    • Limited range of shades
  • Maybelline New York Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder Makeup- Coconut

    Maybelline New York Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder Makeup- Coconut
  • Maybelline New York's Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder Makeup in Coconut new powder makeup from the famous makeup brand provides you with a lightweight, and natural-looking finish. With its coconut scent, you can enjoy a hint of tropical sweetness while you look your best. Plus, it's easy to apply and perfect for creating a flawless complexion. So, get ready to put your best face forward with Maybelline New York's Fit Me Set + Smooth Powder Makeup in Coconut!

    Pros
    • Dermatologist tested
    • Allergy tested
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Not cakey
    • Quite pigmented
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Medium coverage
    • Not travel-friendly
  • e.l.f., Halo Glow Setting Powder

    e.l.f., Halo Glow Setting Powder
  • When it comes to achieving a flawless, luminous finish, few products can compare to e.l.f.'s Halo Glow Setting Powder. This item from the beauty brand is designed to provide a natural, glowing look that won't settle into fine lines and wrinkles. With its lightweight, ultra-fine formula, this setting powder is a great option for a natural-looking finish. Whether you're looking for a finishing touch for your everyday makeup routine or an extra layer of coverage for special occasions, you must check this amazing product.

    Pros
    • 100 % vegan and cruelty-free
    • No parabens
    • Weightless texture
    • Perfect oil control
    • Talc-free
    • Affordable
    Cons
    • Very drying
    • Bad packaging
  • L'Oreal Paris Infallible Tinted Loose Setting Powder

    L'Oreal Paris Infallible Tinted Loose Setting Powder
  • L'Oreal Paris Infallible Tinted Loose Setting Powders, Matte Finish is an innovative product that combines the convenience of a loose powder with the sheer coverage of a tinted foundation for a perfect, natural finish. Whether you’re looking for a matte, oil-free look or a subtle hint of coverage, the Infallible Tinted Loose Setting Powder is the perfect choice for all of your makeup needs. If you are looking for a flawlessly smooth base that won’t budge, this is the ultimate one. With a variety of shades available, you're sure to find the perfect one to match your skin tone.

    Pros
    • Lightweight formula
    • No white cast
    • Long wear look
    • Blends well
    • Does not settle into pores
    • Gentle on acne-prone skin
    Cons
    • Contains talc
    • No long-lasting shine
  • Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder

    Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder
  • Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder is the perfect addition to any beauty routine. This revolutionary setting powder is designed to give you a natural, soft-focus finish that lasts all day long. With a unique blend of ingredients, this powder helps to absorb excess oil, and create a flawless complexion. It's formulated with diamond powder to instantly blur the appearance of imperfections and reduce shine. Enjoy a luminous, airbrushed complexion with this long-lasting, lightweight powder.

    Pros
    • Beautiful texture
    • Blurs pores and fines lines
    • Offers an airbrush finish
    • Long-lasting
    • Does not cake up
    • Cruelty-free
    Cons
    • Not great packaging
    • No oil control
  • Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder- Dark

    Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder- Dark
  • With advanced, hydrating technology and light-diffusing pigment, Smashbox Halo Hydrating Perfecting Powder blurs imperfections, minimizes the appearance of pores and evens out skin tone, leaving you with a natural-looking finish. This long-lasting blend of hydration and coverage to help you achieve a flawless complexion. Whether you’re looking for light coverage or full coverage, this powder is the perfect choice for any makeup look.Try it today and discover the power of the Halo effect!

    Pros
    • Super lightweight
    • Creates radiant complexion
    • Revitalizes skin
    • Provides hydration
    • Delivers anti-aging benefits
    • Excellent finish
    Cons
    • Pricey
    • No buildable coverage
  • Revlon Photoready Candid Anti-pollution Setting Powder

    Revlon Photoready Candid Anti-pollution Setting Powder
  • Beauty enthusiasts can now breathe a sigh of relief with the introduction of Revlon's Photoready Candid Anti-Pollution Setting Powder. It is designed to help lock makeup in place for a longer-lasting, more vibrant look without the need for harsh chemicals or harsh ingredients. With its finely milled, lightweight formula and its ability to absorb impurities and pollutants, this setting powder is sure to provide a flawless finish that is both natural and long-lasting.

    Pros
    • Fights aging
    • No parabens
    • Contains anti-pollution ingredients
    • Evens out skin tone
    • Available in 4 shades
    • Budget-friendly
    Cons
    • Not for dry skin
    • Limited range of shade
  • MISTINE Mineral Pressed Powder Foundation

    MISTINE Mineral Pressed Powder Foundation
  • Introducing MISTINE Mineral Pressed Powder Foundation, a revolutionary makeup formula that blends perfectly with your skin’s natural oils and provides sheer to medium coverage. This foundation is enriched with minerals and vitamins that help to nourish and protect your skin for a long-lasting, natural-looking finish. With its lightweight and buildable coverage, this foundation is perfect for any skin type and leaves your complexion looking smooth, hydrated, and luminous. Discover the power of it and create a flawless complexion today.

    Pros
    • SPF protection
    • Sebum controlling technology
    • Paraben free
    • Contains antioxidants
    • Non-comedogenic
    • Waterproof
    Cons
    • Not full coverage
    • May clog pores

    How to Select the Best Setting Powder for Dark Skin?

    Choosing the best setting powder for dark skin is a matter of personal preference. Once you’ve determined your skin type and tone, it’s time to start shopping for the best setting powder for dark skin. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect setting powder:

    1. Choose a setting powder with a yellow or peach undertone. Darker skin tones benefit from setting powders with a yellow or peach undertone, as these colors will help to warm up the complexion and reduce the appearance of redness and discoloration. 

    2. Look for translucent setting powder. Translucent setting powder is a great choice for dark skin tones, as it won’t add any additional color to the face, but will still help to set makeup. 

    3. Avoid setting powders with white, silvery, or ashy undertones. While these colors may look great on lighter skin tones, they can make dark skin tones appear dull and washed out. 

    4. Choose a setting powder with a matte finish. A matte finish is ideal for dark skin tones, as it won’t make your face look shiny or greasy.

    5. Opt for setting powders with a moisturizing or nourishing formula. Setting powders with a nourishing or moisturizing formula can help to keep your skin hydrated and looking its best. 

    Ultimately, the best setting powder for dark skin is one that makes your skin look and feels smooth, radiant, and healthy.

    With a variety of shades and formulas to choose from, you are sure to find the best setting powder for your skin tone and preference. These 12 best setting powders for dark skin are a great way to keep your makeup in place and free from smudging and fading. 

    Whether you’re looking for an affordable, drugstore brand or something more high-end, there is something for everyone. From mattifying formulas to illuminating powders, you are sure to find the best one that will look natural, and last all day.

    FAQ's

    Does setting powder need to match skin tone?
    Whether or not setting powder needs to match skin tone is a personal preference. For those who want an even, natural-looking finish, choosing a powder that matches their skin tone is recommended. However, those who prefer a more matte finish or who have oily skin may find that a powder that is slightly lighter than their skin tone works best. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide which product is right for them.
    Should I apply setting powder with a brush or sponge?
    Depending on the desired end result, a brush can provide a more even coverage, while a sponge can create a more natural look. Both tools have their own benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to consider which one best suits your specific needs. Ultimately, it is important to experiment with different tools and techniques to find what works best for you.
    Do you use setting powder before or after the foundation?
    Generally, using setting powder before foundation will help lock in your makeup and prevent it from slipping, while using setting powder after foundation will help set your makeup in place and give it a smooth, matte finish. If you have oily skin, you may prefer to use setting powder before your foundation to help reduce shine. If you have dry skin, you may benefit from using setting powder after foundation to set your makeup for a longer-lasting look.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    First, Sayantani extensively researched various brands of setting powders tailored for dark skin tones. She considered factors like shade range, undertones, and formula ingredients. Next, she personally tested each setting powder under different lighting conditions to assess their performance and how they interacted with her skin tone. Then, she examined how well the powders controlled oil, set makeup, and provided a natural finish without ashy or chalky residues. To be honest, she liked the above-mentioned top-picks the most on the basis of these factors. Now, without further ado, get going to find your favorite pick.

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust Select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Sayantani Deb
    Makeup & Beauty Writer

    Sayantani is a certified hair and makeup professional turned writer with 2+ years of experience in the same genre. Ap More