Louise McSharry: ‘When used correctly, powder is one of the best ways to ensure your makeup lasts’

Our beauty columnist says there’s still a place for this old-time favourite

Louise McSharry's pick of the best face powders for a flawless finish

Louise McSharry

Once upon a time, a lady would simply never leave the house without her powder compact. Aside from the fact that an elegant woman pulling one out of a beautiful handbag is the height of chic, faces were meant to be matte. Women simply did not perspire, and their faces needed to be powdery fresh to prove it.

These days, we’ve moved on, and complexion trends over the last number of years have leaned heavily into glowiness. The level of glow comes down to personal preference, but there have definitely been some looks which look downright sweaty. On purpose! The powdered generation would shudder with horror.