Japanese magazine LDK tests 11 popular setting powders

A good setting powder can effectively control sebum production, making it essential during seasons when sweat easily causes makeup to separate and become cakey. It can also be used for touch-ups to prevent unwanted shine. Japanese magazine LDK the Beauty tested 11 setting powders available on the market, including popular brands like MISSHA, MAKE UP FOREVER, and Lancome, conducting a comprehensive comparison. The team evaluated them based on coverage, texture, usability, and smudge resistance. Ultimately, 4 setting powders received an A-Rank rating.

LDK magazine published the results of its test on 11 setting powders in 2025. The 4 scoring criteria are as follows:

• Coverage: Applied by testers and evaluated by professionals to see if it perfectly conceals pores and skin redness.
• Texture: Tested to see if it can smooth out skin imperfections and if it lives up to the manufacturer's claims, such as brightening the complexion and smoothing skin texture.
• Smudge Resistance: An easily dissolvable liquid foundation is applied to artificial skin, then the setting powder is applied on top. Artificial sebum is sprayed, and steam is used to observe how much the foundation smudges.
• Usability: Professionals and monitors actually use the product, evaluating ease of use and portability based on the shape of the puff and the size of the compact.

LDK Test Results for 11 Setting Powders

• 11th Place (2.50 points) C-Rank: Revlon ColorStay Pressed Powder (¥1870 JPY, approx. HK$102)
• 11th Place (2.50 points) C-Rank: VIRCHE Mineral UV Pact (¥4180 JPY, approx. HK$228)
• 9th Place (2.63 points) C-Rank: LIPHIP Blur Powder Pact (¥1320 JPY, approx. HK$72)
• 8th Place (3.13 points) B-Rank: Naris Cosmetics Stylique Powder (¥3300 JPY, approx. HK$180)
• 7th Place (3.50 points) B-Rank: Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Wear Pressed Powder (¥7700 JPY, approx. HK$420)
• 6th Place (3.63 points) B-Rank: MAKE UP FOREVER HD Skin Perfecting Pressed Powder (¥3190 JPY, approx. HK$174)
• 5th Place (3.75 points) B-Rank: Flower Knows Strawberry Cupid Makeup Pressed Setting Powder 02 Ivory Beige (¥3370 JPY, approx. HK$184)
• 4th Place (4.25 points) A-Rank: Orbis UV CUT Sunscreen Powder (¥1980 JPY, approx. HK$108)
• 3rd Place (4.38 points) A-Rank: WONJUNGYO Airy Filter Pact (Porcelain Skin Setting Powder) (¥2200 JPY, approx. HK$120)
• 2nd Place (4.38 points) A-Rank: MISSHA Grow UV Toning Powder (¥2100 JPY, approx. HK$115)
• 1st Place (5.00 points) A-Rank: #Closet Easy Poreless Powder (¥2420 JPY, approx. HK$132)

What are the advantages of the LDK test champion setting powder?

Among the tested setting powders, the "Revlon ColorStay Pressed Powder" came in last place. LDKtesters noted that although the powder has high color payoff, it fails to cover uneven skin tone. The powder's color is described as a natural, healthy skin tone, but the more you apply, the redder the complexion becomes. Its advantage is that the smooth, lint-free puff is soft and comfortable, but some reported the compact was difficult to open.

The second-place "MISSHA Grow UV Toning Powder" effectively eliminates skin dullness. If applied too much, it can look whitish, but the puff helps with adjustment. The compact has a storage compartment for the puff underneath the powder, eliminating the worry of it falling out when opening, earning high praise for its ease of use.

The 1st place winner is the "#Closet Easy Poreless Powder," which received the "Best Buy" title. LDK testers stated that its coverage is excellent, with its lightweight texture making uneven skin tone disappear; it also perfectly conceals pores. Upon application, the skin looks slightly whitish, but after blending with the puff, the skin becomes translucent, leaving a faint, subtle flush. The powder adheres closely to the skin and does not easily come off. Even when in contact with artificial sebum or steam, the foundation remains clear without smudging, maintaining perfect condition.