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The Cast Index

Laura Mercier · United States

Translucent Loose Setting Powder

Setting · Loose setting powder · Matte

The reference loose powder: set only where shine shows, so the rest of the face keeps its light.

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Laura Mercier · Translucent Loose Setting Powder

The desk verdict

The reference loose powder: a fragrance-free, matte, talc-based powder in four shades, £38.50 for 30g. Choose the separate Ultra-Blur version if you want a talc-free formula with a more natural finish.

Skip this if you avoid talc (choose Ultra-Blur), want a luminous finish, or prefer a pressed powder for touch-ups.

The short version

The short version of this review

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder is a fragrance-free, matte loose powder in four shades, sold at £38.50 for 30g on Laura Mercier UK on 25 September 2026. Talc is its first ingredient; the separate Ultra-Blur version is talc-free, in five shades, at £44 for 20g.

Product information reviewed 2026-09-25.

01 / The basics

What is Translucent Loose Setting Powder?

Laura Mercier UK lists the original loose powder in four shades at 30g, with a matte finish, vitamin C and E powders and a fragrance-free, talc-based formula; a separate talc-free Ultra-Blur version comes in five shades. Wear and shine-control figures are brand claims.

Best for
Setting and shine control without visible colour

02 / Review

What is in Translucent Loose Setting Powder?

The original Translucent Loose Setting Powder is a finely milled, talc-based powder with vitamin C and E powders and a plant-derived blurring powder, designed to set makeup with a matte finish. Laura Mercier says it avoids photo flashback; that is a brand claim, not a Cast Index test.

Ultra-Blur is a separate, talc-free formula with silica powders and hyaluronic acid, aimed at normal to dry skin.

03 / Review

Who is Translucent Loose Setting Powder best for?

Anyone who wants to control shine in selected areas without adding visible colour. Four shades, from Translucent to Translucent Medium Deep, cover more depths than a single “universal” powder.

04 / Review

What should you check before buying?

Choose between the talc-based original and talc-free Ultra-Blur. Match the shade to your depth: a translucent powder can still leave a cast on deeper skin if the shade is too light. Apply sparingly on dry areas.

05 / How to use it

How should you use Translucent Loose Setting Powder?

  1. 01Tap a small amount into the lid and remove the excess from a puff or brush
  2. 02Press onto areas that shine, such as the centre of the face
  3. 03Leave the outer cheeks unset if you want to keep some glow

06 / Quick facts

What should you know before choosing Translucent Loose Setting Powder?

  • —Original: 30g, £38.50 on Laura Mercier UK; four shades including Translucent, Translucent Honey and Translucent Medium Deep
  • —Matte finish; fragrance-free; talc is the first ingredient
  • —Vitamin C and E powders, amino acids and a plant-derived blurring powder
  • —Brand claims: sets makeup for 16 hours with 24-hour shine control
  • —Ultra-Blur: a separate talc-free version, five shades, £44 for 20g
  • —Pressed versions are sold separately

Further reading on The Cast Index

Facts on this page are drawn from the brand’s own product information and named, reputable press coverage, summarised in our own words. Inclusion in the Beauty Desk edit is editorial and independent of any commercial relationship. Last reviewed 2026-09-25. Corrections: desk@thecastindex.com.

FAQ

Translucent Loose Setting Powder, answered

What is Translucent Loose Setting Powder by Laura Mercier?

Translucent Loose Setting Powder is a loose setting powder from Laura Mercier, formulated for setting and shine control without visible colour. Laura Mercier UK lists the original loose powder in four shades at 30g, with a matte finish, vitamin C and E powders and a fragrance-free, talc-based formula; a separate talc-free Ultra-Blur version comes in five shades. Wear and shine-control figures are brand claims.

Is Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder talc-free?

The original is not: talc is its first ingredient. Laura Mercier sells a separate talc-free version called Ultra-Blur.

How many shades does Laura Mercier setting powder come in?

The original comes in four shades on Laura Mercier UK; Ultra-Blur comes in five.

Is Laura Mercier setting powder fragrance-free?

Yes. Laura Mercier UK describes both the original and Ultra-Blur as fragrance-free.

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