NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder Review: Does This Live Up to the Hype?

You spend time perfecting your makeup. You blend your foundation just right. You add concealer to brighten your undereyes.

But then, a few hours later, everything starts to slip and slide. Your carefully applied makeup begins to fade. This is where a good setting powder comes in.

Today, we’re diving deep into the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder to see if this highly praised product deserves a spot in your makeup bag.

Key Takeaways

• Performance and Finish: This powder delivers a luminous, soft-focus effect that blurs imperfections without looking flat or matte. It sets makeup for all-day wear while maintaining a natural glow that photographs beautifully.
• Formula Benefits: The powder contains microfine mineral particles loaded with Glycerin and Vitamin E. These ingredients guard against dryness and keep skin comfortable throughout the day. The formula is non-acnegenic and won’t clog your pores.
• Photochromic Technology: NARS packed this powder with special light-adjusting technology. It prevents flashback in photos and adapts to different lighting conditions. Your skin looks perfect both in person and on camera.
• Shade Range: Available in four translucent shades including Crystal, Shore, Mesa, and Sable. This range works for very light to deep skin tones, though Crystal works universally for most people.
• Price Point: At $40 for the standard size, this is a luxury setting powder. The mini version costs $20, and the jumbo size runs $55. It’s an investment, but many users find the quality justifies the cost.

NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder Pressed

The NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder comes in two formats. You can choose the pressed version or the loose powder formula. Both deliver similar results, but the pressed version offers more convenience for travel and touch-ups. The pressed compact fits easily into any makeup bag. You can throw it in your purse without worrying about powder explosions.

This powder became an instant favorite when NARS first launched it. Makeup artists loved how it performed under harsh stage lights. Beauty enthusiasts praised its ability to set makeup without looking heavy. The formula creates a weightless veil over your foundation. It locks everything in place while maintaining a natural, skin-like finish.

The pressed version comes in an elegant black compact. The powder itself has a smooth, finely milled texture. When you first open it, the surface looks perfectly pressed and even. You need to swirl your brush across it multiple times to soften the powder before first use. After that initial step, the powder picks up beautifully on your brush.

What Makes NARS Light Reflecting Powder Special

Setting powders all claim to do the same thing. They promise to set your makeup and control shine. But the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder goes beyond basic claims. This powder uses advanced technology that makes it stand out from drugstore options and even some luxury competitors.

The star ingredient is the Light Reflecting Complex. This proprietary blend helps restore your skin’s natural radiance. Instead of looking flat and powdery, your skin maintains a healthy glow. The formula uses synthetic fluorphlogopite and mica. These minerals catch and reflect light in a flattering way.

The powder also features Photochromic Technology. This science might sound complicated, but it’s actually brilliant. The formula adjusts to different light sources. Whether you’re in natural daylight, fluorescent office lighting, or taking photos with flash, your skin looks consistent. You won’t get that dreaded white cast in photos that many powders create.

The Science Behind the Glow

Beauty products work better when the science behind them is solid. NARS didn’t just create another translucent powder. They developed a formula that actually works with your skin. The microfine mineral powders are so finely milled that they become almost invisible on the skin.

Glycerin acts as a humectant in this formula. It draws moisture from the air into your skin. This prevents the powder from looking dry or cakey. Even if you have dry skin, this powder won’t emphasize flaky patches. The Vitamin E provides antioxidant protection. It helps protect your skin from environmental stressors throughout the day.

The formula is also surprisingly gentle. It’s dermatologist tested and suitable for all skin types. If you have sensitive skin that reacts to many products, this powder might work for you. It won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts. The non-acnegenic formula means you can use it even if you’re prone to acne.

How to Apply NARS Setting Powder Like a Pro

Application technique matters just as much as the product itself. You can have the best powder in the world, but poor application will ruin the results. Let’s break down the proper way to use this setting powder for the best outcome.

Start with a fluffy powder brush. The NARS #13 Powder Brush works perfectly, but any large, soft brush will do. Swirl your brush gently across the powder surface. Tap off the excess powder before applying to your face. This step prevents you from depositing too much product at once.

Sweep the powder across your face using light, feathery motions. Focus on areas where you applied foundation or concealer. Don’t press or push the powder into your skin. Let it sit on top and set your makeup naturally. If you want more coverage in specific areas, you can use a slightly damp sponge instead.

For the undereye area, use a smaller brush or a powder puff. You can use the press and roll technique here. Gently press the powder onto your concealer, then roll the brush or puff outward. This helps lock your concealer in place without disturbing it. Your undereyes will look smooth and crease-free all day.

Top 3 Alternatives for NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder

The Huda Beauty Easy Bake Loose Baking and Setting Powder offers similar results at a comparable price point. This powder comes in multiple shades and delivers that same soft-focus finish. It works beautifully for baking under the eyes or setting your entire face. The texture is incredibly fine and blends seamlessly into the skin.

Another excellent option is the Huda Beauty Easy Bake in Banana Bread shade. This version adds a subtle warmth to your complexion while setting your makeup. If you prefer a slightly more matte finish than what NARS offers, this could be your perfect match. The formula is fragrance-free and works well for sensitive skin.

The Huda Beauty Sugar Cookie shade provides universal appeal. This shade works across a wide range of skin tones. It sets makeup without adding extra color or changing your foundation shade. The formula helps blur pores and fine lines just like the NARS powder does.

Does It Really Work for All Skin Types

One of the biggest selling points is the claim that this powder works for everyone. But does it really deliver on that promise? Let’s examine how it performs on different skin types to give you a realistic picture.

For oily skin, this powder performs exceptionally well. It controls shine without looking heavy or cakey. The formula absorbs excess oil throughout the day. Your makeup stays fresh for hours without needing constant touch-ups. However, if you have extremely oily skin, you might need to blot and reapply once during the day.

Dry skin types often struggle with setting powders. Many formulas emphasize dry patches and make skin look worse. The NARS Light Reflecting Powder is different. The Glycerin and Vitamin E keep skin comfortable. It doesn’t cling to dry areas or make your skin look flaky. Just make sure you moisturize well before application.

Combination skin finds the perfect balance with this powder. You can apply it all over for a uniform finish. Or you can use it strategically on your T-zone only. The powder won’t make your dry areas look worse while controlling oil in shiny spots. This versatility makes it ideal for combination skin types.

The Luminous Finish: What to Expect

The word luminous gets thrown around a lot in beauty marketing. Every product claims to give you that coveted glow. But what does luminous actually mean with this powder? Let’s set realistic expectations about the finish you’ll achieve.

This isn’t a highlighter. It won’t make you look shiny or sparkly. Instead, it creates a soft, lit-from-within glow. Your skin looks naturally radiant and healthy. Think of it as the difference between looking flat and looking dimensional. The powder adds just enough light reflection to keep your face from looking one-dimensional.

If you prefer a completely matte finish, this might not be your ideal powder. It’s not truly matte, though it’s not dewy either. The finish falls somewhere in between. You get a satin-like appearance that looks natural and skin-like. For photos and videos, this finish is absolutely perfect.

The glow becomes more apparent in certain lighting. Natural daylight shows off the luminosity beautifully. Indoor lighting still looks great, just slightly more subtle. Flash photography is where this powder really shines. The no-flashback formula means you won’t look ghostly in photos.

Longevity and Wear Time Performance

A setting powder needs to actually set your makeup. Otherwise, what’s the point? The NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder promises all-day wear. But how does it really hold up during a long, busy day?

Most users report excellent longevity. Your makeup stays in place for 8 to 10 hours easily. Foundation doesn’t oxidize or change color. Concealer doesn’t crease in your fine lines. Everything stays exactly where you placed it. If you’re going to a special event or working a long shift, this powder has your back.

The formula is particularly impressive for preventing undereye creasing. Many setting powders settle into fine lines and make them more visible. This one actually helps minimize their appearance. The soft-focus effect continues working throughout the day. Your skin looks smooth from morning until night.

Touch-ups are minimal with this powder. You might need to blot your T-zone if you’re very oily. But you probably won’t need to reapply the powder itself. The formula holds strong without breaking down. This makes it excellent value despite the higher price tag.

Shade Selection Guide

Choosing the right shade in a setting powder can be tricky. Even though these are translucent powders, shade selection matters. The NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder comes in four different shades designed for various skin tones.

Crystal is the most universal option. This shade works for very light to light skin tones. But many people with medium skin tones also use it successfully. It’s truly translucent and doesn’t add color to your complexion. If you’re not sure which shade to choose, Crystal is your safest bet.

Shore works beautifully for medium to medium-deep skin tones. This shade has a slight warmth that complements deeper complexions. It won’t lighten your foundation or leave an ashy finish. The translucent formula still sets your makeup without changing the color.

Mesa is perfect for medium-deep to deep skin tones. This shade adds just a hint of warmth while setting your makeup. It helps prevent that gray or ashy appearance that can happen with truly colorless powders on deeper skin. The finish remains natural and seamlessly blends into your foundation.

Sable caters to the deepest skin tones. This shade ensures that everyone can enjoy the benefits of this powder. It sets makeup without any white cast or ashiness. The translucent coverage still allows your natural skin and foundation to show through beautifully.

Pressed vs Loose Formula Comparison

NARS offers this powder in two different formats. The pressed version comes in a compact with a mirror. The loose version comes in a jar with a sifter. Both contain the same basic formula, but they have different benefits depending on your needs.

The pressed powder is more travel-friendly. You can toss it in your bag without worry. There’s no risk of powder spilling everywhere. The compact includes a mirror, making touch-ups easy anywhere. Application with a brush gives you precise control over how much product you use.

The loose powder offers more product for your money. The jar contains more powder than the compact. Application tends to be lighter and more buildable with loose powder. You can use it for everything from light setting to full baking. The loose format also tends to last longer before hitting pan.

Performance-wise, they’re nearly identical. Both create that signature luminous finish. Both set makeup for all-day wear. The choice comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. If you’re always on the go, pressed makes sense. If you mainly do your makeup at home, loose might be better.

Real User Experiences and Results

Reviews from actual users tell you more than any marketing claim. Let’s look at what real people say about the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder. These honest opinions come from various skin types and concerns.

Many users praise the natural-looking finish. One reviewer mentioned that their face looked airbrushed after using this powder. They couldn’t believe how smooth their skin appeared. The powder didn’t dry them out or emphasize texture. This sentiment appears repeatedly across reviews.

Makeup artists frequently recommend this powder to clients. They love how it photographs under professional lighting. The no-flashback formula means perfect photos every time. It works equally well for everyday makeup and special occasions. Professional results without professional application skills.

Some users with very oily skin mention needing occasional touch-ups. The powder controls oil well, but extreme oiliness might breakthrough after many hours. However, these same users still rate the powder highly. They appreciate that it doesn’t cake up when they do touch-ups. The formula remains smooth and blendable throughout the day.

A few people with very dry skin report that any powder emphasizes their dryness. But even they note that this powder performs better than others. The key is proper skin preparation. Moisturizing well before application makes all the difference. The powder itself doesn’t cause dryness thanks to the Glycerin content.

Price Analysis: Is It Worth the Investment

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room. At $40 for the standard pressed compact, this powder isn’t cheap. You can find setting powders at the drugstore for under $10. So is the NARS powder actually worth four times the price?

Quality matters in makeup products. The finely milled texture of this powder is immediately noticeable. It applies smoothly and blends effortlessly. Cheaper powders often have larger particles that sit on top of skin visibly. This powder becomes virtually invisible. The superior texture alone justifies some of the price difference.

The formula longevity also factors into value. A little goes a long way with this powder. The compact lasts for months even with daily use. When you calculate the cost per use, it becomes more reasonable. You’re not replacing it every few weeks like you might with cheaper options.

The technology behind this powder sets it apart. The Light Reflecting Complex and Photochromic Technology aren’t just marketing buzzwords. They actually affect how the powder performs. You’re paying for research, development, and patented ingredients that work.

Consider your makeup routine and priorities. If you wear makeup occasionally, a drugstore powder might suffice. But if you wear makeup daily, work in front of cameras, or want professional results, this powder is worth it. The confidence boost from knowing your makeup looks perfect all day has its own value.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best product can disappoint if you use it incorrectly. Let’s discuss some common mistakes people make with setting powder and how to avoid them with the NARS formula.

Using too much product is the biggest mistake. More powder doesn’t mean better setting. It means cakey, obvious makeup. Start with a light hand. You can always add more if needed. With this finely milled powder, a little truly goes a long way. Less is more should be your mantra.

Skipping skin preparation is another problem. Setting powder works best on properly prepped skin. Make sure you moisturize appropriately for your skin type. Let your skincare absorb fully before applying foundation. Then let your foundation set for a minute before powdering. This layering process ensures the best results.

Using the wrong tools affects your outcome. A cheap, scratchy brush won’t work well with any powder. Invest in at least one good quality, soft powder brush. The bristles should be dense enough to pick up product but soft enough to blend. The right brush makes application easier and more effective.

Applying powder before your makeup is completely dry causes issues. Foundation and concealer need a moment to set. If you powder immediately, you’ll move your base makeup around. Wait 30 seconds to a minute. Let everything settle into your skin. Then apply your powder for smooth, even coverage.

How It Compares to Luxury Competitors

The luxury setting powder market has many players. Laura Mercier, Charlotte Tilbury, and Hourglass all offer premium options. How does the NARS powder stack up against these high-end alternatives?

The Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder is probably the most direct competitor. Both are beloved by professionals and everyday users. The Laura Mercier powder offers more of a matte finish. The NARS powder gives you that luminous glow. If you prefer dimension over pure matte, NARS wins.

Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Finish powder also competes in this category. It comes in multiple shades and delivers beautiful results. However, it’s even more expensive than the NARS powder. The Charlotte Tilbury formula is slightly more mattifying. The NARS Light Reflecting Complex gives a more radiant finish.

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder is another luxury favorite. It creates a beautiful, soft-focus finish similar to NARS. The texture is comparable, both being extremely fine. The main difference is the light-reflecting technology in the NARS formula. This makes it slightly better for photos.

Ultimately, personal preference plays a huge role. All these powders perform at a high level. The NARS powder offers the best balance of setting power and luminosity. If that’s what you want, it’s the top choice in this category.

Special Editions and Limited Releases

NARS regularly releases special editions of this popular powder. These limited releases feature unique packaging or marbleized formulas. They make great gifts and collectible items for beauty enthusiasts.

The Gold Dust edition infuses the powder with marbleized gold sheen. This version adds extra luminosity and a subtle warmth. It’s perfect for creating a glowing, festive look. The holiday packaging also makes it giftable and luxurious.

The Prismatic Powder version contains lavender-shaded powders. This blend helps brighten and combat dullness. The unique marbleized appearance makes it visually stunning in the compact. The formula works exactly like the regular version but with a brightening boost.

Jumbo sizes appear during holiday seasons. These oversized compacts contain more product at a slightly better value. If you’re a devoted fan who uses this powder daily, the jumbo makes sense. You won’t run out anytime soon with the larger size.

Limited edition packaging often features artistic designs. Butterfly motifs, lunar new year themes, and artistic patterns appear throughout the year. The formula remains the same, but the packaging becomes special and unique.

Tips for Maximizing Your Powder’s Lifespan

Makeup products last longer when you care for them properly. Here are some practical tips to get the most use and best performance from your NARS setting powder.

Keep your brushes clean. Dirty brushes transfer oil and bacteria to your powder. This contamination breaks down the formula and shortens its life. Wash your powder brush at least once a week. Spot clean between washes if you use it daily. Clean brushes also apply powder more evenly.

Close the compact tightly after each use. Exposure to air can dry out the binding agents in pressed powder. The texture might become harder or more difficult to pick up. Always snap the compact closed completely. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Don’t apply powder with a wet sponge directly from the compact. If you wet your sponge for application, dip into powder on the back of your hand first. Introducing moisture directly to the compact can cause mold or bacterial growth. Keep your powder dry for maximum longevity.

Scrape the top layer occasionally if the powder develops a hard film. This film forms from natural oils on your brush. Gently scrape it away with a clean tissue or brush. The fresh powder underneath will pick up beautifully again.

The Verdict: Who Should Buy This Powder

After examining every aspect of the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder, who should actually purchase it? Let’s break down the ideal candidates for this product.

You should buy this powder if you want professional-quality results at home. The formula performs like products makeup artists use backstage at fashion shows. Your makeup will look polished and perfect all day. If you care about how your makeup appears in photos, this powder is essential for your kit.

This powder suits you if you have normal to combination skin. The formula balances oil control with hydration. You won’t look too dry or too shiny. The luminous finish complements most skin types beautifully. Even slightly oily skin does well with this powder’s lightweight formula.

You’ll love this powder if you prefer a natural, radiant finish. Matte makeup lovers might find this too glowy. But if you want that lit-from-within look, this delivers perfectly. Your skin appears healthy and dimensional rather than flat.

Skip this powder if you need extreme oil control. While it manages normal oiliness well, extremely oily skin might need something stronger. Look for a more mattifying option if you struggle with significant shine. Also skip it if you’re strictly budgeting for makeup and need to save money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does NARS Light Reflecting Powder cause flashback in photos?

No, the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Powder does not cause flashback. The formula contains Photochromic Technology that adapts to different light sources. This technology prevents the white cast that appears in flash photography with many other powders. Your skin looks natural and flawless both in person and in photos.

Can I use this powder if I have dry skin?

Yes, this powder works well for dry skin. The formula contains Glycerin and Vitamin E which help guard against dryness. These ingredients keep your skin comfortable throughout the day. Just make sure you moisturize properly before applying your makeup. The powder won’t emphasize dry patches like many other setting powders do.

How much product do you get in the standard size?

The standard pressed compact contains 10 grams of product. The mini version contains 1.8 grams. The jumbo limited edition size contains 0.29 ounces. This might seem small, but the finely milled formula means you use very little product per application. One compact typically lasts several months with daily use.

Is the Crystal shade truly universal?

Crystal shade works for very light to medium skin tones. Many people with medium to medium-deep skin also use it successfully. It’s translucent and doesn’t add color to your complexion. However, deeper skin tones might prefer Shore, Mesa, or Sable to avoid any potential ashiness. Crystal is the most universally flattering option across different skin tones.

Should I choose pressed or loose powder?

Choose the pressed version if you travel frequently or need portability. The compact is mess-free and includes a mirror for easy application anywhere. Choose the loose powder if you mainly apply makeup at home and want more product. The loose formula offers lighter, more buildable coverage. Both versions contain the same basic formula and perform similarly.

How does this compare to drugstore setting powders?

The NARS powder offers superior texture and performance compared to most drugstore options. The formula is more finely milled and blends seamlessly into skin. It contains patented technology for light reflection and photo-readiness. Drugstore powders often contain larger particles and lack the sophisticated finish. The difference in quality justifies the higher price for many users.

Can I use this powder for baking my makeup?

Yes, you can use this powder for baking, though it’s designed primarily for setting. The translucent formula works well for baking under eyes and other areas. However, the luminous finish means it’s not ideal for extreme baking techniques that require heavy powder. For traditional baking, consider using the loose version as it’s easier to apply in thicker layers.

Will this powder work on mature skin with fine lines?

This powder actually works beautifully on mature skin. The Light Reflecting Complex creates a soft-focus effect that optically blurs fine lines and wrinkles. The formula doesn’t settle into lines or emphasize texture. Many mature users report that this powder makes their skin look smoother and more youthful. Just avoid over-applying and use a light hand.

Last update on 2026-02-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API