While luminous, dewy skin continues to be a major trend, there’s no denying the essential role of a good pressed powder in any makeup routine. Whether you need to control shine, set your foundation, or ensure your makeup lasts all day, a quality pressed powder can make all the difference. According to professional makeup artists, modern pressed powders have come a long way from their past reputation of being heavy or cakey. Today’s formulas offer a lightweight, seamless finish that enhances your makeup without dulling your natural glow.

If you prefer a matte complexion, struggle with excess oil, or simply want to extend the wear of your foundation, having a reliable pressed powder in your collection is a must. But with so many drugstore options available, how do you know which ones truly perform? We’ve done the research and tested a variety of formulas to find the best affordable options that deliver flawless results.

Whether you’re looking for a powder that keeps your skin shine-free for hours, one that blurs imperfections without settling into fine lines, or a formula that works well for combination skin. The best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune to achieve a smooth, long-lasting finish. Ahead, we break down the best drugstore pressed powders, evaluating each one based on formula, finish, wear, and shade range—so you can find the perfect match for your needs.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Maybelline Fit Me Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Lightweight, natural finish
✔️ Controls shine without looking cakey
✔️ Offers sheer to medium coverage

What to Consider
❌ Not the longest-lasting for oily skin

Shades: 24 | Cruelty-Free: No

Maybelline Fit Me Pressed Powder is a cult favorite for a reason. This finely milled formula offers a natural-looking finish that controls shine without making your skin look dry or overly matte. Unlike older powders that can feel heavy, this one has a lightweight texture that blends seamlessly over foundation or bare skin. It’s available in an impressive 24 shades, making it one of the best drugstore pressed face powder. While it’s excellent for setting makeup, those with very oily skin might need to reapply throughout the day.

Read Full Review: Maybelline Pressed Powder Fit Me Matte + Poreless

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Best Pressed Powder for Oily Skin

​NYX Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Absorbs oil and reduces shine for hours
✔️ Smooth, non-cakey formula
✔️ Works well for combination to oily skin

What to Consider
❌ Can emphasize dry patches

Shades: 12 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If shine control is your top priority, NYX Pressed Powder is a must-have. This ultra-fine formula helps to mattify the skin while keeping it looking fresh and smooth. It’s ideal for those with oily or combination skin, as it effectively absorbs excess oil throughout the day. However, if you have dry patches, this powder might accentuate them, so applying it sparingly is key.

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Best Budget-Friendly

e.l.f. Prime & Stay Finishing Powder

What We Like
✔️ Super affordable
✔️ Lightweight, soft-matte finish
✔️ Blurs imperfections

What to Consider
❌ Limited shade range

Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

For a budget-friendly option that still delivers, e.l.f.’s Prime & Stay Finishing Powder is a solid pick. The ultra-lightweight formula helps set makeup while keeping your skin looking smooth and natural. It’s best suited for those who want a light, everyday powder that won’t break the bank. However, with only four shades available, it might not work for all skin tones.

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Best for Long-Lasting Wear

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Controls shine for up to 5 hours
✔️ Smooth, non-chalky formula
✔️ Affordable and widely available

What to Consider
❌ Packaging isn’t very sturdy

Shades: 8 | Cruelty-Free: No

Rimmel’s Stay Matte Pressed Powder is a go-to for those looking for long-lasting oil control. The formula keeps shine at bay for hours without making your skin look dull or dry. It provides a soft-matte finish that works well for all skin types, but its packaging is a bit flimsy, so be careful when carrying it around.

Read Full Review: Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder Review

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Best for Sensitive Skin

Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Hypoallergenic and fragrance-free
✔️ Lightweight mineral formula
✔️ Blurs pores and imperfections

What to Consider
❌ Limited shade range

Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Physicians Formula is known for its skin-friendly formulas, and this pressed powder is no exception. Designed for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, it offers a smooth, non-irritating finish that won’t clog pores. The lightweight mineral formula provides a soft, natural coverage that blurs imperfections. However, with only four shades, finding a perfect match may be challenging.

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Best Lightweight Formula

Wet n Wild Photo Focus Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Ultra-lightweight and breathable
✔️ Provides a soft-focus finish
✔️ Works well for normal to dry skin

What to Consider
❌ Not ideal for very oily skin

Shades: 8 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

For those who prefer a lightweight, barely-there feel, Wet n Wild’s Photo Focus Pressed Powder is the best pressed powder for face. It sets makeup beautifully while maintaining a skin-like finish. The formula works best for normal to dry skin types, but those with oily skin might find they need to reapply throughout the day.

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Best for All-Day Wear

Revlon ColorStay Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Long-lasting formula
✔️ Controls shine without feeling heavy
✔️ Blends smoothly

What to Consider
❌ Can settle into fine lines on dry skin

Shades: 6 | Cruelty-Free: No

Revlon’s ColorStay Pressed Powder is designed to last all day without touch-ups. It provides excellent shine control and a natural finish that doesn’t feel heavy or cakey. While it works great for combination to oily skin, those with dry skin may need to moisturize well before applying to prevent it from settling into fine lines.

Related: Pressed Powder vs Loose Powder: Which One Should You Choose?

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Best for Mature Skin

No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Blurs fine lines and wrinkles
✔️ Lightweight, hydrating formula
✔️ Soft, radiant finish

What to Consider
❌ Slightly more expensive than other drugstore options

Shades: 4 | Cruelty-Free: No

If you’re looking for a pressed powder that works well on mature skin, No7’s Lift & Luminate Triple Action Powder is a standout choice. It’s formulated with skin-smoothing ingredients that help blur fine lines without making the skin look dry. It leaves a natural, radiant finish that enhances rather than masks the skin. The price is slightly higher than some drugstore options, but the results make it worth considering.

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Best for Sensitive & Acne-Prone Skin

Covergirl Clean Invisible Pressed Powder

What We Like
✔️ Dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic
✔️ Lightweight and breathable
✔️ Absorbs oil without clogging pores

What to Consider
❌ Light coverage may not be enough for some

Shades: 6 | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Covergirl’s Clean Invisible Pressed Powder is a great option for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. The formula is non-comedogenic and dermatologist-tested, ensuring it won’t clog pores. It offers light coverage, perfect for setting makeup without adding extra weight. However, if you’re looking for more coverage, this may not be the best choice.