Your roots lift in front of the mirror, then the style falls flat as you head out. Before reaching for the bottle again, look at where the lift disappears. One section dropping to the side and roots that feel sticky all over call for different adjustments.
The whole style falls flat: adjust the amount
If the roots feel rough or strands catch when you separate them, adding powder may make styling harder. Next time, start on a small section with the lightest amount allowed by the directions. Work it in with your fingertips before judging the result. On fine hair, this helps you see how little you actually need.
One section drops: target its base
Lift the section that falls and find where it bends. On short hair, that is often just behind the front section or at the crown. On longer hair, try parting under the top layer. Work at the base, then let the lengths settle. The lift is easier to see when it starts where the section bends.
The roots feel patchy: check that they are dry
After blow-drying, the surface can feel dry while the crown is still slightly damp. If the directions call for dry hair, wait until the roots are dry before applying powder. If you used cream or oil near the scalp, try the powder on its own another day to see how layering affects the result.
The style flattens at the finish: change the last step
Compare the shape before and after your final brush stroke. If the brush pushes down the sections you just lifted, smooth only the surface and use your fingers to adjust the base. For a half-up style, create lift first, then check it after adding the elastic. If it drops at that point, try tying it a little more loosely.
A test for your next styling session
Keep the same powder and change one thing: the amount, the placement or the finishing step. Check the result in the mirror straight away and again later in the day. That will show which adjustment helps before you consider changing formulas.