Start with a Well-Prepped Canvas
The secret to long-lasting makeup begins before you even pick up a brush. Start with a clean, exfoliated face to remove any excess oils or dry patches that can cause makeup to apply unevenly or slide off. Follow up with a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser
suitable for your skin type. This is a crucial step, as dehydrated skin may absorb the moisture from your foundation, causing it to fade faster. Allow your moisturiser to fully absorb for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.
Never Skip the Primer
Think of primer as the foundation for your foundation. It creates a smooth, even surface for makeup to adhere to, filling in pores and fine lines. This barrier between your skin and your makeup is essential for extending its wear. Choose a primer formulated for your specific skin concerns—a mattifying one for oily skin, a hydrating one for dry skin, or a pore-minimising one for visible pores. Don't forget your eyelids; an eyeshadow primer is key to preventing creasing and ensuring your eye makeup stays vibrant all day.
Layer Thinly and Strategically
It may seem counterintuitive, but applying heavy layers of foundation is a recipe for a cakey look that fades unevenly. Instead, makeup artists recommend applying products in thin, buildable layers. Start with a small amount of a long-wear or transfer-resistant foundation and blend it out, adding more only where needed. This technique applies to all your cream and liquid products, including concealer and blush. This 'less is more' approach ensures a more natural finish that has better staying power.
Embrace the Power of Powder
Setting powder is a game-changer for locking in your base makeup. After applying your liquid and cream products, lightly dust a translucent setting powder over your face, concentrating on areas that tend to get oily, like the T-zone. This helps to absorb excess oil and prevents your makeup from sliding around, especially in humid weather. You can use a fluffy brush for a light dusting or press the powder into the skin with a puff or sponge for extra hold.
Choose Long-Wearing Formulas for Eyes and Lips
For eyes and lips, which are high-movement areas, opting for long-lasting formulas is key. Use waterproof or smudge-proof eyeliners and mascaras to prevent smearing, especially on hot or long days. When it comes to lipstick, increase its longevity by first lining and filling in your lips with a lip liner. Then, apply a thin coat of lipstick, blot with a tissue, and apply a second coat. This layering technique creates a durable base that will last through meals and drinks.
Lock It All in with a Setting Spray
The final step to ensure your makeup doesn't budge is a quality setting spray. This product acts as a final seal, melting all the layers of makeup together for a seamless finish and creating an invisible barrier against fading, smudging, and transferring. Hold the bottle about an arm's length from your face and mist it evenly in an 'X' and 'T' motion to cover your entire face. Let it dry completely, and your makeup will be locked in for hours.
