If you’ve ever felt the satisfaction of seeing that shiny silver pan peek through your favorite compact, then you already know—we are not just using makeup, we are on a mission. Welcome to the Paniverse, where the goal is not only to use what you love, but to love what you use.
I believe that our beauty stash should be less about collecting dust and more about celebrating the products that make us glow—literally and emotionally. This year, I’ve been focused on panning some of my favorite powders, and I’m excited to share a update on my current project pan journey, plus some tips to help you stay motivated through your own.
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What Is Project Pan?
For those who are new to the game, project pan is a makeup challenge where you intentionally use up products in your collection until you hit pan or finish them completely. Whether it’s to reduce clutter, avoid waste, or finally give your purchases the love they deserve, panning is a personal, empowering journey—and honestly, kind of addictive once you get into ii. Your bank account will reward you also with all of that extra money you will save!
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My Trip the Paniverse: The Powders Edition
I’m proud to say I’ve made serious progress this year—especially with my powders. I’ve focused on a handful of pressed and loose powders that I’ve either loved for a long time or rediscovered during a decluttering session. Here are the key players in my current project pan:
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1. KKW Beauty Brightening Powder in Shades 3 and 4
These were a surprise hit for me. I picked them up during the kkwbeauty.com clearance sale, not really knowing what to expect—but no regrets here. Shade 4 added the perfect brightening effect under my eyes, while Shade 3 gave me a bit more of that seamless, natural tone. Together, they helped me achieve a refreshed look without looking cakey or too dry.
• Why I loved them: The packaging. Honestly, these were so easy to toss in my purse or travel makeup bag.
• Formula review: Not my favorite ever—but still solid. They wore well, blended easily, and didn’t crease.
• Pan status: Almost gone. And though I won’t repurchase (since KKW Beauty is no longer around in its original form), I’m so glad I got to enjoy them.
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2. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Pressed Powder in Tan
Listen… I’ve panned two of these already. That should tell you something. The finish on this powder is so smoothing and undetectable on the skin—it’s one of those “your skin but better” products that really lives up to the hype.
• Why I loved it: It’s finely milled, doesn’t settle into lines, and makes my skin look flawless.
• Funny story: I hit pan on the refill before I even placed it into the compact. That’s how much I was reaching for it.
• Pan status: Third compact is currently in use—but I’m resisting buying another until I finish at least one or two more powders. (The self-restraint is real.)
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3. KKW Beauty Bake Powder in Shades 3 & 4
This powder was all about the packaging love. It’s a little bigger and sleeker than the brightening powder, and it actually became one of my favorite things to travel with.
• Best part: I mixed Shade 3 with Shade 4 to create a custom tone that was just right for me.
• Bonus win: I repurposed the container! Once I finished the powder, I refilled the jar with another loose powder to keep in my travel bag. (Reduce, reuse, repowder.)
• Pan status: Technically finished and repurposed—so it’s a pan win in every sense.
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What I’ve Learned From Project Panning Powders
Panning isn’t just about getting through makeup—it’s about getting real with what you actually use, love, and reach for. Here are some truths I’ve learned along the way:
• Packaging matters. If something is easy to store, travel with, or feels good in the hand, I reach for it more.
• Not every favorite needs to be repurchased. Sometimes we love a product, but that doesn’t mean we need to keep it in rotation forever. That Charlotte Tilbury powder? Amazing. But I’m choosing to wait before restocking so I can appreciate what I already have.
• Mixing shades works! Don’t be afraid to get creative with underused powders. Mixing my KKW shades turned them into a custom blend that matched my skin even better.
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Tips to Keep Your Project Pan Momentum Going
Feeling inspired to start or continue your own powder-panning journey? Here are some quick tips to help you stay on track:
1. Keep Your Panning Powders in Reach
Don’t stash them away. Keep them in your everyday makeup bag, near your desk, or wherever you do your face. Accessibility leads to consistency.
2. Make It a Ritual
Add a bit of joy to the routine—maybe it’s your favorite playlist, a podcast, or your morning coffee. Let panning be a moment you enjoy.
3. Track Your Progress
There’s something so motivating about seeing the pan get bigger over time. Use a journal, spreadsheet, or take progress photos monthly.
4. Reward Yourself (Mindfully)
Finished a powder? Celebrate! But maybe resist the urge to immediately replace it unless it’s a true staple. Give your other powders a chance to shine first.
5. Repurpose Old Containers (if possible)
Like I did with my KKW bake powder—those sturdy little jars are perfect for travel or even storing other loose products like setting powder or blush samples.
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Final Thoughts: Panning With Purpose
Panning powders isn’t just about decluttering—it’s about mindful beauty. It’s checking in with yourself and your collection, and making space (physically and mentally) for what truly serves you.
I’ve made real strides this year and I’m loving the process. Hitting pan feels like an accomplishment, and every time I use one of these powders, it reminds me to appreciate what I have before jumping into the next beauty trend.
So, what about you?
What’s the last product you hit pan on—and how did it make you feel? Would you repurchase it, or are you excited to explore something new? Leave me a comment below or tag me on Instagram @misaglow with your powder pan progress—I’d love to cheer you on!
Until next time, keep glowing (and panning)!
