Tips for long-lasting makeup

• Prepare skin with cleansing and exfoliation to prevent cakey makeup
• Use hydrating serums and moisturiser to create a smooth, dewy base
• Apply primer and SPF to extend wear time and protect skin during the day

There’s nothing more frustrating than perfecting your makeup, only to have it slide, cake, or fade by evening. The secret to a look that lasts isn't just in the makeup; it's in the preparation. A solid routine is your best defence.

Start With a Clean Canvas

The first and most non-negotiable step is to begin with perfectly clean skin. Throughout the day, your skin accumulates oil, dirt, and impurities that can prevent makeup from applying smoothly. Using a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type removes this buildup without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. This ensures your foundation won't have to battle an oily or uneven surface, allowing it to adhere properly for a more natural and long-lasting finish. Starting fresh means your products can perform their best.

Exfoliate for a Smooth Surface

Dry, flaky patches are a primary culprit for cakey foundation, as makeup tends to cling to them, creating an uneven texture. To avoid this, incorporate gentle exfoliation into your routine a couple of times a week. Using a mild chemical exfoliant with ingredients like lactic or glycolic acid can dissolve dead skin cells without harsh scrubbing. This reveals a smoother, more refined surface for your makeup to glide over. Remember not to over-exfoliate, as this can cause irritation and sensitivity.

Hydrate With Serums and Essences

Dehydrated skin is thirsty, and if it's not properly hydrated, it will pull moisture from your foundation, causing it to break down and look patchy. This is where a hydrating serum or essence comes in. Look for products containing hyaluronic acid, which is a powerful humectant that binds moisture to the skin, making it look plump and dewy. Applying a lightweight serum after cleansing creates a hydrated cushion, which helps prevent makeup from settling into fine lines and keeps it looking fresh for hours.

Lock It In With Moisturiser

Moisturiser is crucial for creating a barrier between your skin and your makeup. It seals in the hydration from your serum and creates a smooth, nourished surface. For pre-makeup prep, choose a formula that works for your skin type—a lightweight, gel-based cream for oily skin or a more nourishing cream for dry skin. Crucially, give your moisturiser a few minutes to fully absorb before moving on to the next step. If your skincare is still sitting on the surface when you apply foundation, it can cause the products to mix and separate throughout the day.

Create Grip With a Primer

While some consider it optional, a primer is the final step that truly bridges the gap between skincare and makeup. A good primer is designed to create an even canvas, blur the appearance of pores, and give your foundation something to grip onto, significantly extending its wear time. There are many different formulas available, from mattifying primers that control oil to illuminating ones that add a glow. Choose one that targets your main skin concern and complements your foundation formula to ensure they work well together.

Don't Forget Sunscreen for Daytime

If you're getting ready for a day-long event that will stretch into the evening, sunscreen is a must. It is your most important defence against sun damage. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher as the final step in your skincare routine, right before primer. Look for a lightweight, chemical or hybrid formula that absorbs fully into the skin without leaving a white cast, which can interfere with your makeup. Proper sun protection not only shields your skin but also helps maintain the integrity of your makeup.