What Is Compact Powder and What Is It Used For?
Quick answer: Compact powder is pressed powder in a portable case with a mirror. It's used to set makeup, control shine and give light coverage on the go. For a pressed powder that covers and sets, try Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation; for a sun-kissed glow, try the 6in1 Professional Face Powder Compact.
Compact powder is one of the most useful things you can keep in your handbag. It sets your makeup, takes down shine and gives you a quick, polished finish wherever you are. Here's what compact powder is, what it's used for, how to apply it and how to choose the right one.
What Is Compact Powder?
Compact powder is powder that's been pressed into a solid cake, usually in a case with a mirror and a puff or sponge. Because it's pressed, it's less messy than loose powder and easy to carry, which makes it ideal for touch-ups during the day.
What Is Compact Powder Used For?
- Setting makeup: helps foundation and concealer stay in place for longer.
- Controlling shine: absorbs oil on the forehead, nose and chin.
- Light coverage: evens out skin tone on its own on minimal-makeup days.
- Quick touch-ups: refreshes your makeup on the go.
- Bronzing and contour: tinted compacts add warmth and definition.
Our Compact Picks
1. Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation: Best for Coverage and Setting
Best for: a pressed powder that covers, sets and controls shine, including on sensitive skin.
A luminous pressed mineral foundation made with a handful of clean ingredients, including zinc oxide. It's free from perfumes, preservatives and parabens, and buffs on for a soft, airbrushed finish. Available in 8 shades, with more than 3,700 customer reviews on our website.
- Buildable coverage
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- 8 shades
2. 6in1 Professional Face Powder Compact: Best for a Sun-Kissed Glow
Best for: adding warmth and definition with one product.
One compact you can use six ways: as a blusher, face and body bronzer, eyeshadow, face framer, contour and lip colour. Choose from light or dark and build up the colour for a healthy glow. It's one of our most popular products, with almost 4,000 customer reviews.
- Blush, bronzer, contour and more
- Light and dark shades
- Mirror included
How to Apply Compact Powder
- Prep your skin: moisturise and let it absorb. Add foundation and concealer if you're wearing them.
- Press, don't rub: use the puff or a brush and gently press powder onto your skin.
- Focus on oily areas: concentrate on the T-zone and use less on dry areas.
- Build slowly: add thin layers only where you need more coverage.
- Add warmth last: sweep a bronzing compact where the sun naturally hits: forehead, cheekbones and nose.
Compact Powder vs Loose Powder
Compact powder is pressed, portable and gives a little more coverage. Loose powder is finer and lighter, and best for setting makeup at home. Read our full guide to the difference between compact and face powder.
What Customers Say
"I have sensitive skin and have tried all sorts of foundations but I find this product to be the best."
Cherie, verified customer
"Great for daily casual and natural look without the need to use liquid foundation."
Suryati M., verified customer
"I love using my 6in1 with my pressed mineral foundation. Makes my skin tone look even. It's awesome for my minimal makeup look."
Rebecca H., verified customer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is compact powder used for?
Setting makeup, controlling shine, giving light coverage and touching up on the go. Tinted compacts can also be used to bronze and contour.
Can compact powder replace foundation?
On minimal-makeup days, a pressed mineral foundation can be worn on its own for light-to-medium coverage.
Is compact powder good for oily skin?
Yes. It absorbs excess oil and helps reduce shine during the day.
Is compact powder good for dry skin?
Use a light layer over a good moisturiser, and avoid building up powder on dry patches.
Can I buy Thin Lizzy compacts in stores?
Yes. Thin Lizzy is available at Priceline, TerryWhite Chemmart and Wizard Pharmacy stores across Australia. The range can vary by store, so the easiest way to get the full range, bundles and online deals is to shop online. See our FAQ page for stockist details.
Looking for a deal? Many of our best sellers are available in bundle offers from time to time. See our current Bundle Offers →
Final Thoughts
A good compact is a handbag essential. Use a pressed powder to set and touch up, and a bronzing compact to add warmth and definition.
