Why "Precision Powdering" Will Change The Way You Set Your Face
Not only is she the queen of glossy skin, but makeup artist Nam Vo has also coined a dictionary of her own beauty terms, including "glowjob" and "dewy dumpling". Another term she uses is "precision powdering"- aka the key to balancing the fine line between looking dewy and looking oily.
“I call it precision powdering because you don’t have to slap it everywhere,” Vo tells Allure. “You just want to slap it in the hot spots.”
What Exactly Does Precision Powdering Mean?
Precision powdering refers to isolating setting powder to specific "hot spots" as Vo calls them. By this, she means areas like the centre of the forehead, sides of the nose and the chin - areas that are prone to excess shine.
The key to this technique is definitely the brush. Instead of the huge powder brush you're used to using, Vo suggests opting for a smaller brush like Real Techniques Setting Brush to allow you to be precise in your application - a technique UK makeup artist Nikki Wolff also uses.
But what will you achieve from using this technique, you ask? Well, by isolating your setting powder, you can still achieve a dewy, radiant, skin-like finish, without merging into the territory of looking oily. And in turn, by not powdering down the entire face, you retain dimension and glow without the complexion looking flat and dull.
What Tools Do I Need For Precision Powdering?
The good news is, you don't need to blow your budget. I've put together two really affordable staples you can easily slide into your routine so you can experiment with precision powdering at home.
First things first, we've gotta get you using the correct brush. This Real Techniques Setting Brush is the one I personally use for powdering. It's made with super-soft Taklon bristles - the cushiony synthetic fibres are perfect for precise application of any kind of product, whether it's a powder, cream or liquid.
A favourite of industry experts, RCMA's No Colour Powder is a translucent setting powder suitable for all skin types and skin tones. It has no filler or pigment, so it will not alter the colour of your foundation base. The finely-milled formula sets foundations, tinted moisturisers and BB creams invisibly, leaving a silky smooth finish.
