From my experience trying out different makeup setting techniques, I found this experiment with Laura Mercier's loose translucent deep setting powder and Morphe's continuous setting mist spray quite insightful. Many makeup enthusiasts suggest removing excess powder after baking to avoid patchiness or accentuating fine lines, but this test shed new light on the practice. Applying setting powder generously to bake the face is a common step to lock makeup in place, reduce shine, and blur imperfections. However, excess powder can sometimes settle into fine lines or create a dry, chalky look if left untouched. The trick some BeautyTok creators propose is using a brush to sweep away the surplus powder before spritzing with a setting spray. This method aims to maintain the smoothing effect of the powder while preventing cakey patches. In the test, one side of the face had the excess powder removed with a brush and then received the setting spray, while the other side kept the powder in place before applying the spray. The side where excess powder was removed looked more blurred and smoother overall, suggesting that this technique can enhance the makeup’s finish and longevity. However, I noticed that this approach might work best when makeup is not heavily layered—if you have a full face of makeup, the full baking method without removing excess might still serve better to keep everything locked down. Personally, I would recommend experimenting with both techniques depending on your skin type and makeup routine. Those with dry or mature skin might benefit more from removing the excess powder to avoid accentuating fine lines. In contrast, those with oily skin or longer wear needs may prefer to keep the powder intact for better oil control. In addition, the Morphe continuous setting mist spray is a key step to hydrate the skin and melt the powder into the skin, avoiding a powdery finish. Spritzing evenly but not oversaturating the face helps to achieve a refreshed, natural-looking complexion. Overall, this crash test reinforces that makeup hacks should be adapted to individual needs rather than followed blindly. Removing excess setting powder after baking paired with a good setting spray can definitely improve the final look by smoothing out textures and preventing patchiness, especially for lighter makeup days. But for full glam makeup, letting the powder stay might still be the way to go. Try both and choose what enhances your makeup wear and comfort best!