When should you use Set & Care Powder to set your makeup?
Erborian’s Set & Care Powder is a loose powder applied as the final step in your complexion makeup routine. Its ultra-fine texture combines mineral particles that absorb excess oil, light-diffusing microspheres, white ginseng root powder, and hyaluronic acid. Its subtle peachy hue blends into the complexion rather than covering it.
On the forehead, nose, and chin—where the skin tends to shine first—the powder provides a blurring and mattifying effect: shine is reduced, skin texture appears smoother, and the appearance of pores is minimized. The finish of your foundation or tinted moisturizer becomes more even. To help you choose the base this powder will set, our selection of foundations and tinted moisturizers is organized by coverage and finish.
The powder’s second role is to ensure long-lasting wear. Applied over makeup, it sets the complexion and prolongs the look throughout the day, with a natural matte finish that doesn’t dull the skin’s radiance or leave a heavy, cakey feel. The ginseng and hyaluronic acid in the formula are designed to keep the skin comfortable under makeup, preventing the tight, dry feeling that powder can sometimes cause by the end of the day.
It’s perfect for days when your complexion is put to the test: sweltering heat, a long workday, an evening out after a day spent wearing makeup, or areas that start to get shiny again by mid-afternoon. Its single shade suits all skin tones, from the lightest to the darkest, without leaving a white cast on the face.
We recommend pairing it with Erborian CC Cream Tinted Corrector. The tinted cream provides color and light coverage; the powder, applied on top, sets this layer, mattifies the surface, and makes it last longer.
How do you apply this loose powder to your complexion?
After applying makeup, to set the look, or for touch-ups throughout the day, apply the powder to your face using a brush or a powder puff. Pick up a small amount and tap off any excess on the back of your hand before applying.
Share your feedback on the usage instructions and recommended application for Erborian Set & Care Powder with our partner “Verified Reviews” after your purchase.
Precautions
- For external use on the face only. Do not apply to broken, irritated skin, or mucous membranes.
- Do not inhale. Open the jar and apply the powder while holding the brush or powder puff away from your nose and mouth, and avoid blowing off the excess: the fine particles in loose powder can irritate the respiratory tract.
- Do not use on children or apply to infants: accidental inhalation of cosmetic powder containing zinc stearate exposes young children to a risk of lung damage.
- Avoid contact with the eyes. In case of contact, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Known nut allergy: The formula contains macadamia nut oil.
- Discontinue use if redness, itching, or a rash occurs, and seek advice.
- Clean the brush or powder puff regularly, and do not share them: a dirty makeup tool transfers sebum and microorganisms from one application to the next.
- The list of ingredients may vary: check the list on the packaging of the product you purchased.
- Keep the jar tightly closed, away from moisture and heat. Observe the “use by” date indicated on the packaging. Keep out of reach of children.
What are the ingredients in this mattifying setting powder?
Mica, Silica, Calcium sodium borosilicate, Synthetic fluorphlogopite, Zinc stearate, Dimethicone, Zinc PCA, Panax ginseng root powder, Macadamia ternifolia seed oil, Caprylyl glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrogenated lecithin, Sodium hyaluronate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Tocopherol, CI 77491/Iron oxides, CI 77492/Iron oxides, CI 77499/Iron oxides.
Product Details
9.5 g loose powder jar, available in one shade.
Our expert tips on Set & Care Powder for a matte complexion
At the counter, the most common disappointment with loose powder isn’t the formula—it’s the amount. Powder applied in multiple layers settles into fine lines and on dry areas, and that’s what people then blame for “caking.” The right technique is to press the powder in small dabs onto shiny areas, then reapply only where needed. On the rest of the face, the sheer veil left by the brush is usually sufficient.
Second point, less obvious: powder sets and mattifies, but it doesn’t protect. It has no sun protection factor, and the matte finish is no substitute for your morning moisturizer or sunscreen, which should be applied before foundation. In fact, poorly hydrated skin under a mattifying powder ends up shining even more, as sebum compensates for the lack of moisture.
FAQ
Does Erborian’s Set & Care Powder contain talc?
No. The ingredient list does not include talc. The powdery texture is based on other minerals and microspheres, which absorb shine and diffuse light.
Can I use Set & Care Powder if I have dry skin?
Yes, in small amounts and only on specific areas. The powder is especially useful for combination to oily skin; on dry skin, it should be limited to the T-zone, after a moisturizer has had time to absorb. On dry patches or flaky skin, a mattifying powder accentuates the texture, so it’s best to skip it.
Can I apply Set & Care Powder without foundation?
Yes. On bare skin, after your morning skincare routine, it mattifies and smooths the skin’s appearance without covering it: its light tint provides no coverage and does not correct redness or blemishes. It’s an option for someone who doesn’t wear foundation but wants to minimize shine.
What’s the difference between Set & Care Loose Powder and a pressed powder?
A loose powder is finer and lighter: it’s primarily used to set makeup and leaves a more natural finish. A compact powder, pressed into a case, provides more coverage and fits more easily into a bag for touch-ups on the go.