Powder stuff: which kind? when for? which skins?

Putting on powder is one of those make rituals that's evocative of playing dress-up makeup rituals, too, but powder now poses a dilemma having proliferated into a variety of formulations, which is right for you? Your skin, your makeup mood?

It's actually not a bad idea to have a powder wardrobe nowadays. Here's the scoop on who-needs- what-when.

• If you have dry skin, try a liquid-to-powder formula. Even used dry (as powder), they're by nature moister than most pressed and loose powders. Liquid-to-Powder Foundation, in skin-matched shades.
  

• When you want maximum coverage, liquid-to-powder is again the answer. It can substitute for foundation or concealer, giving allover coverage or camouflage for spot imperfections.
  

• If you have oily skin, either pressed powder or Powder Mill with Oil-Control Powder, a unique loose formulation, are good for you. Apply pressed powder with a velour puff or makeup sponge. (Wash or discard these frequently, especially if you have breakouts; used ones can spread bacteria.)
  

• If you're concerned about fine lines, go around them when you're powdering. Any type of powder collects in lines and makes them more pronounced. Typical trouble spots: around eyes, sides of the mouth, above the upper lip.
  

• Any powder sets makeup. The lightest way to do it is with loose powder.
  

• To touch up makeup, either your pressed or liquid-to-powder compact works well. Matched to foundation, they give you a fresh look-midday, mid-night.