The term, "I'm going to powder my nose" is a euphemism with its roots in old Hollywood history. Face powder was used by film stars who used the lovely translucent dust to smooth their complexion and diminish shiny skin, as a pale, matte effect was in vogue in the 1930s. Ornate compacts, including pressed powder, a mirror and a powder puff, became standard. Rather than use a liquid foundation that is set by face powder, often the powder was all women used.

While we no longer apply it in traditional powder rooms, today's powder now offers a range of benefits and uses, from sun protection and bronzing to setting foundation. Wear it over liquid foundation for fuller coverage, or on its own for quick coverage of redness or other imperfections.

Recreate the look of a 1930s film star face with compacts like Lancôme Paris Dual Finish, which is powder and foundation in one, Maybelline Fit Me Pressed Powderor Urban Decay Naked Skin. Wear minimal makeup - light liquid foundation and/or concealer and pale pink blush - to highlight the smoothing, complexion-clearing effect of these powders. That's all there is to putting your best 1930s face forward!

Do you wear powder alone or over liquid foundation? Tell us in the comments below.

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