Daily Halacha - Shabbat Laws, 7 Iyar 5777

Is it permissible for a woman to use face powder on Shabbat?

It is permissible for a woman to color her face with powder, since it is not something that lasts. However, if the powder contains cream, it is forbidden, as this creates a lasting coloration [Chazon Ovadia Shabbat 5, p. 5].

Is it permissible for a woman to use mascara on Shabbat?

It is forbidden for a woman to comb her eyelashes with mascara [a comb designed for this purpose], and there is no difference whether she uses black or clear paste, since this involves the prohibition of building.