When you're spending an hour layering on foundation, concealer and contour products, you want your makeup to actually last through the event you're wearing it for. There's nothing more annoying than when makeup is slip-sliding all across your face, so taking the time to ensure that it stays in place is key. Here are some tricks from makeup experts that can make it last longer, to try before your next full-face-worthy occasion.
1) Always use primer
A primer instantly blurs out flaws, reduces the appearance of pores and controls oil production, says London-based makeup artist, Nikhar Jivani. She says that it is a key addition to your makeup kit, especially if you're going to be taking a lot of photos—a primer can absorb excess oil from beneath the foundation and prevent it from separating as quickly. It serves as a canvas for base products to adhere to, prevent them from feathering or smudging.
2) Use makeup textures according to skin type
Pick a product that works for your skin type, says Delhi-based makeup artist Anu Kaushik. “If you have dry skin and you use a matte foundation, it'll crack and separate on the skin, so it is best to use a creamier texture,” she says. “An oil-based foundation will get blotchy on someone who has oily skin, so I would suggest they use a water-based matte foundation." If you're going to be somewhere where the humidity levels are high, makeup artists suggest skipping the foundation for concealer. Concealer has a thicker, whipped texture that'll give you more coverage with less product.
3) Apply base makeup with a damp beauty sponge
Makeup artist Bianca Louzado suggests using a damp beauty sponge to ensure buildable coverage in thin, light layers. “Dampen the sponge and then squeeze out all the water. Use a dry tissue to absorb anything extra. Then apply thin layers where you need coverage," she says.
4) Set it all with loose powder
“The concept behind setting powder is to lock in the foundation in order for it to stop it from smudging, shifting and transferring. It also absorbs any excess oil,” says Jivani. For best results, use a powder puff or sponge to layer on a thick layer on the T-zone and under the eyes, and then after letting it bake, use a brush to take off the excess. “Use a damp sponge to melt the translucent powder under the eyes. This can be done on the laugh lines, forehead, under the lips and at the side of the cheekbone. There are no creases at all,” she said.
5) Finish with a setting spray
Jivani loves setting sprays, so it is an important addition to her makeup kit. Most setting sprays contain water to hydrate—and keep it from flaking and looking cakey—and polymers to hold your makeup firmly in place. For optimal application, spray the face in an X formation and then a T formation for even coverage.
Also read:
9 makeup setting products that actually have great skincare benefits
How to pick the right makeup primer for your specific skin type
The secrets to long-lasting makeup for party season
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