Ultra Blur Translucent Lose Setting Powder
Ultra Blur Translucent Lose Setting Powder
Product Description
Product overview
The cult-favorite Translucent Loose Setting Powder, now talc-free with ultra-blurring power. Instantly blur the look of pores, fine lines and imperfections while extending makeup wear up to 16 hours with a hydrating, hyaluronic acid-infused formula that feels comfortable on all skin types.
Ultra-Blurring Technology
Amino acid and silica powders create an instant soft-focus effect, blurring pores, fine lines, and imperfections for an airbrushed finish.
Texture & feel
SENSORYUltra-Blurring Technology
Amino acid and silica powders create an instant soft-focus effect, blurring pores, fine lines, and imperfections for an airbrushed finish.
Hydrating Formula
Infused with Hyaluronic Acid to deliver all-day comfort and hydration, making it suitable even for dry skin types.
16-Hour Longwear
Clinically proven to extend makeup wear up to 16 hours while controlling shine without feeling heavy or cakey.
Zero Photo Flashback
Truly translucent formula photographs beautifully without any white cast or flashback in photos.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, and esters that feed malassezia yeast. The Ultra Blur formula is confirmed acne-safe.
Dermatologist-tested and clinically proven not to clog pores. Rating 0/5 on comedogenicity scale.
Fragrance-free, talc-free formula. Ophthalmologist tested and suitable for contact lens wearers.
Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil, and formaldehyde-releasing agents.
Contains no animal-derived ingredients. Cruelty-free brand.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMicaKey Ingredient
A naturally occurring mineral that provides the powder's silky texture and light-reflecting properties, creating a soft-focus effect on skin.
- Function: Light diffusion, improves skin adhesion, creates luminous finish
- Safety: EWG Rating 1 - Considered safe for cosmetic use
Sodium HyaluronateHydrating
A smaller molecular form of Hyaluronic Acid that penetrates skin more effectively, providing deep hydration and plumping effects.
- Benefit: Holds up to 1000x its weight in water for lasting hydration
- Function: Prevents powder from feeling drying or tight on skin
SilicaBlurring
A powerful oil-absorbing ingredient that creates the signature soft-focus, blurring effect while mattifying shine.
- Function: Oil absorption, pore-blurring, mattifying
- Result: Creates an Instagram filter-like finish in real life
Lauroyl LysineAmino Acid
An amino acid-based powder that creates a skin-compatible finish for undetectable, long-wear benefits.
- Function: Improves adhesion and wear time
- Benefit: Creates a smooth, silky texture that glides onto skin
Sunflower Seed Oil TraceNourishing
A lightweight, nourishing oil rich in Vitamin E that conditions skin without adding heaviness.
- Benefit: Antioxidant protection and skin conditioning
- Compatibility: Non-comedogenic rating 0
Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Antioxidant
A powerful antioxidant that protects skin from free radical damage and supports skin barrier health.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, skin conditioning
- Benefit: Helps maintain healthy-looking skin throughout the day
11 ingredients
Mica, Lauroyl Lysine, Zinc Stearate, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Silica, C13-15 Alkane, Ethylhexylglycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sorbic Acid. May Contain/Peut Contenir/(+/-): Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Manganese Violet (CI 77742), Red 7 (CI 15850), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Ultramarines (CI 77007), Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140).
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step after all cream/liquid products and before powder color products. The finishing step to achieving Laura Mercier's iconic Flawless Face.
How to use
HOW TO USESaturate the Velour Puff
Sprinkle a dime-sized amount of powder in the cap. Pick up powder with the Velour Puff, working powder into puff by folding and rubbing the halves together.
Tap Off Excess
Tap off excess powder on the back of your hand to prevent over-application and ensure an even, lightweight finish.
Press & Roll Technique
Press puff onto skin using a rolling motion to marry product into skin and set makeup. This artist-inspired technique ensures perfect, foolproof application.
Double Set Problem Areas
For extra blurring, double set areas that need more attention like fine lines, large pores, and texture. Use a small flat brush for difficult areas like around nostrils.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want long-lasting makeup that stays put for 16+ hours
- You have dry or normal skin and need hydrating setting powder
- You're looking for a talc-free, clean formula
- You need pore-blurring and soft-focus effects
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe makeup
- You have fungal acne and need a safe setting powder
- You take photos frequently and want zero flashback
- You prefer a natural, skin-like finish over heavy matte
Consider alternatives if:
- You have extremely oily skin and need maximum oil control
- You prefer a completely matte, flat finish
- You're looking for full coverage powder foundation
- You need a pressed compact for on-the-go touch-ups
- You're on a strict budget (consider drugstore dupes)
- You prefer heavily fragranced products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESHyaluronic acid-infused formula provides hydration. 96% of users say it doesn't leave skin feeling tight. Won't emphasize dry patches.
Perfect balance of shine control and natural finish. Creates a beautiful soft-focus effect while keeping skin comfortable all day.
Controls shine in T-zone while keeping cheeks comfortable. Can layer more product on oily areas without looking cakey.
97% say it controls shine. Natural finish may require midday touch-ups for very oily skin. Original formula may be better for maximum oil control.
Fragrance-free, talc-free, dermatologist-tested. No irritating ingredients. Ophthalmologist tested for eye area use.
Non-comedogenic, non-acnegenic. Confirmed fungal acne safe. Won't clog pores or trigger breakouts. Clean formula.
Ultra-fine texture doesn't settle into fine lines or wrinkles. Blurring technology creates soft-focus effect on aging concerns.
Blurs appearance of pores, texture, and imperfections. Becomes one with skin without emphasizing texture issues.
Results timeline
WITH CONTINUED USEInstant Soft-Focus Effect
Visible blurring of pores, fine lines, and imperfections. Foundation is locked in place with a natural, skin-like finish. Skin looks smooth and flawless.
99% noticed comfortable feelShine Control & Lasting Wear
Makeup remains intact without creasing or settling into fine lines. Shine is controlled in T-zone. Foundation still looks fresh and natural.
97% noticed shine controlExtended Wear Performance
Clinically proven to extend makeup wear up to 16 hours. Blurring effect remains visible. Very oily skin may need light touch-up.
93% reported no cakingImproved Application Technique
Mastering the press & roll technique results in even better, more natural application. Powder becomes easier to work with and customize to your needs.
97% say it works well on their skintoneRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Talc-free clean formula
- 16-hour clinically proven wear time
- Hydrating with Hyaluronic Acid
- Blurs pores, fine lines, and imperfections
- Zero photo flashback
- Comfortable for dry skin
- Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe
- Fragrance-free
- Doesn't cake or settle into fine lines
- Multiple shades for various skin tones
- Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner
Criticized
- Premium price point ($48)
- Loose powder packaging can be messy
- Velour puff sold separately (some sizes)
- May need touch-ups for very oily skin
- Not as mattifying as original formula
- Takes practice to master application
- Product can settle around jar lid
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESNearly identical performance at a fraction of the price. Similar texture and blurring effect, though not talc-free. Comes in 8 shades. Main difference: Contains talc and no hyaluronic acid.
Makeup artist favorite drugstore option. Silky texture that blurs imperfections. May cause minor flashback in photos for some. Translucent shade only.
Classic drugstore powder with excellent coverage and blurring. Strong vintage floral fragrance may not suit everyone. Contains talc. Available in multiple shades.
Great soft-focus finish and pore-blurring. Some users report flashback in photos. Mineral-based formula. Good for everyday use.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDELaura Mercier Ultra Blur
Storage & shelf life
24 MONTHS24 months after opening. Powder products have longer shelf life than liquids.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent product from drying out or absorbing moisture.
Glass jar with sifter lid. Elegant pink packaging with the Laura Mercier signature aesthetic.
Mini size (9g) available for travel. Full size (20g) may be bulky but under TSA powder limits. Consider pressed version for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this powder is safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens that should be avoided during pregnancy. The formula is also fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested, making it a gentle choice for expectant and nursing mothers.
Yes, the Ultra Blur formula is confirmed fungal acne safe. Unlike the original Laura Mercier Translucent powder (which contains potentially triggering ingredients like ethylhexyl palmitate and corn starch), the Ultra Blur version is formulated without common malassezia triggers. It's been specifically noted as "Acne-Safe" by skin experts analyzing the ingredient list.
Yes, this setting powder is compatible with all skincare actives. Since it's applied over makeup and doesn't contain active ingredients that would interact with your skincare, you can safely use it over any skincare routine. Allow your skincare and primer to absorb fully before applying foundation and this powder.
This powder is specifically formulated for dry to normal skin types, thanks to its hydrating Hyaluronic Acid infusion. 96% of users say it doesn't leave skin feeling tight. However, it works well on combination skin too. For very oily skin that needs maximum oil control, you may prefer the original Laura Mercier Translucent powder, which offers 24-hour wear and more mattifying properties.
Results are immediate! You'll see instant blurring of pores, fine lines, and imperfections as soon as you apply. The soft-focus, airbrushed effect is visible right away. The powder is clinically proven to extend makeup wear up to 16 hours, controlling shine throughout the day.
Apply after all cream and liquid products (primer, foundation, concealer, cream contour/blush) and before powder color products (powder bronzer, blush, highlight). Use the press & roll technique with a velour puff for best results. This is the finishing step to achieve Laura Mercier's iconic Flawless Face.
No, this powder is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. It has been dermatologist-tested and clinically proven not to clog pores. The Ultra Blur formula is also non-acnegenic, meaning it won't cause or worsen acne. It's safe for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.
The powder has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 24 months. Powder products generally have a longer shelf life than liquid or cream products. Store in a cool, dry place with the lid tightly closed to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
The Ultra Blur is talc-free and infused with Hyaluronic Acid for 16-hour hydrating wear with a natural finish, making it ideal for dry to normal skin. The Original formula contains talc and offers 24-hour wear with a more matte finish, better suited for normal to oily skin. Ultra Blur is also fungal acne safe while the original is not.
No, this powder is specifically formulated for zero photo flashback. The truly translucent formula photographs beautifully without any white cast or ghostly appearance in flash photography. This makes it perfect for events, photography, and professional settings.
Verdict: The Laura Mercier Ultra Blur Translucent Loose Setting Powder is an exceptional upgrade to the iconic original formula. With its talc-free, hyaluronic acid-infused formulation, it delivers impressive 16-hour wear while keeping dry and normal skin comfortable throughout the day. The blurring technology creates a beautiful soft-focus, airbrushed finish that photographs flawlessly. While the premium price point may deter budget-conscious shoppers, the clean formula, fungal acne safety, and pregnancy-safe credentials justify the investment for those seeking a high-performance, worry-free setting powder. An Allure Best of Beauty winner that lives up to its reputation.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Mica
Cosmetic Colorant, Opacifying
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lauroyl Lysine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Hair Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Zinc Stearate
Cosmetic Colorant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate
Absorbent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|





