The present invention relates to a solid cosmetic composition in the form of a powder which is preferably compacted comprising at least: a pulverulent phase in an amount of greater than or equal to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition comprising at least one perlite in the form of particles in a content of greater than or equal to 20% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition a liquid fatty phase and in which the perlite particles and the liquid fatty phase are present in the composition in a respective total content such that the weight ratio of the perlite particles to the liquid fatty phase ranges from 2 to 25. The present invention also relates to a process for coating the face and in particular the cheeks the chin the temples the forehead and the nose with the said cosmetic composition.