Have you ever asked, “how can I make my makeup last longer?” We got you! Here’s some friendly advice on how to extend the longevity of your makeup! We all know the struggle of perfecting that flawless look in the morning, only to have it disappear by midday. Whether it’s smudged eyeliner, faded foundation, or disappearing lipstick, keeping your makeup intact throughout the day can be quite the challenge. However, fear not, as we’ve compiled a few simple tricks and tips to help you make your makeup last longer and keep you looking flawless from morning to night. Let’s dive in, shall we?
Prepping your skin
Before applying any makeup, it’s important to properly prep your skin to ensure a flawless and long-lasting result. This involves cleansing your face, exfoliating your skin, moisturizing, and applying primer.
Cleansing your face
Start by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, and impurities. This will help create a clean canvas for your makeup and prevent it from clogging your pores. Make sure to choose a cleanser that is suitable for your skin type.
Exfoliating your skin
Exfoliating your skin regularly is crucial for removing dead skin cells and revealing a smoother surface. This not only helps your makeup to glide on more evenly but also helps prevent it from settling into fine lines and creases. Use a gentle exfoliator and massage it onto damp skin in circular motions, then rinse off with warm water.
Moisturizing your skin
Hydrated skin is key to achieving long-lasting makeup. Apply a lightweight moisturizer that suits your skin type to nourish and hydrate your skin. This will create a barrier that helps your makeup to adhere better and last longer. Don’t forget to give the moisturizer a few minutes to fully absorb before moving on to the next step.
Applying primer
Primer is a game-changer when it comes to making your makeup last longer. It creates a smooth base for your foundation, blurs imperfections, and helps your makeup adhere better to your skin. Choose a primer that suits your skin type, whether it’s mattifying for oily skin or hydrating for dry skin. Apply a small amount all over your face, focusing on areas where your makeup tends to fade or crease.
Foundation tips
Foundation serves as the base for your entire makeup look, so it’s important to choose a long-lasting formula and apply it correctly.
Choosing a long-lasting foundation
Look for foundations that are labeled as long-wearing or have a matte finish, as these tend to have better staying power throughout the day. Additionally, consider your skin type when selecting a foundation, as some formulas are better suited for oily or dry skin. Don’t forget to test the shade on your jawline for a seamless match.
Using a primer
As mentioned earlier, using a primer is crucial for a long-lasting foundation. After applying your moisturizer, apply a thin layer of primer all over your face to create a smooth surface for your foundation. This will also help the foundation adhere better and prevent it from sliding off throughout the day.
Applying foundation with a brush
Using a brush to apply your foundation not only gives you better control but also helps to distribute the product evenly. Start by dotting the foundation on your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Then, use a brush to blend it out in circular motions, ensuring seamless coverage. Building up thin layers rather than applying a heavy amount all at once will help your foundation stay put for longer.
Setting foundation with powder
To lock your foundation in place and prevent it from creasing or fading, set it with a translucent powder. Using a large, fluffy brush, gently dust the powder all over your face, paying extra attention to areas that tend to get oily or where your makeup tends to move. This step will not only extend the longevity of your foundation but also give your skin a smooth, matte finish.
Concealer tricks
Concealer is a magical product that helps hide imperfections and brighten up your under-eye area. To make sure your concealer stays in place all day, try these tricks.
Using a color corrector
Color correctors are a great tool to neutralize discoloration and blemishes. If you have dark circles or redness, apply a color corrector before your concealer. Use a peach or orange corrector for dark circles and a green corrector for redness. Apply a small amount and gently blend it out using your finger or a small brush.
Applying concealer in a triangular shape
Instead of simply dotting concealer under your eyes, try applying it in a triangular shape. Start by drawing a line from the inner corner of your eye, down to the outer corner of your nose, and then up to the outer corner of your eye. Fill in the triangle with concealer and pat it in with your fingertip or a damp beauty sponge. This technique not only brightens up your under-eye area but also helps to lift and sculpt your face.
Setting concealer with powder
To prevent your concealer from creasing or smudging, set it with a translucent powder. Using a small fluffy brush, gently apply a thin layer of powder over the concealed areas. This will help to lock the concealer in place and ensure it stays put throughout the day.
Eyeshadow techniques
Eyeshadow is a fun way to add color and dimension to your eyes. To keep your eyeshadow looking vibrant and crease-free, follow these techniques.
Using an eyeshadow primer
Just like a face primer, an eyeshadow primer is essential for long-lasting eyeshadow. Apply a small amount of eyeshadow primer onto your eyelids and blend it out with your fingertip. This will create a smooth base for your eyeshadow, prevent creasing, and make the colors appear more vibrant.
Using long-lasting eyeshadow formulas
When choosing eyeshadows, opt for long-lasting formulas such as cream or powder shadows with a satin or matte finish. These tend to have better staying power compared to shimmer or glitter shadows. Look for eyeshadows that are labeled as long-wearing or smudge-proof.
Layering eyeshadows
To achieve a vibrant and long-lasting eyeshadow look, try layering different shades and textures. Start with a matte shade as a base, then gradually build up the intensity with satin or metallic shadows. Make sure to blend each layer well to create a seamless transition between colors.
Avoiding excess oils on the eyelids
Excess oils on the eyelids can make your eyeshadow crease and fade quickly. To prevent this, ensure that your eyelids are free from oils by using an oil-absorbing sheet or applying a mattifying eyeshadow primer. Additionally, avoid touching or rubbing your eyelids throughout the day, as this can transfer oils from your fingers to your eyelids.
Eyeliner and mascara hacks
Eyeliner and mascara are essential for defining your eyes. Here are some hacks to make them last longer.
Using waterproof formulas
For long-lasting eyeliner and mascara, opt for waterproof formulas. These formulas are designed to withstand sweat, tears, and humidity, ensuring that your eye makeup stays intact throughout the day. Whether you prefer a pencil, gel, or liquid eyeliner, make sure to choose a waterproof option.
Setting eyeliner with eyeshadow
To prevent your eyeliner from smudging or transferring onto your lid, set it with an eyeshadow in a similar shade. Using a small angled brush, apply a matching eyeshadow on top of the eyeliner to lock it in place. This not only helps to prolong the wear of your eyeliner but also creates a more blended and polished look.
Curling your lashes before applying mascara
Curling your lashes before applying mascara can make a world of difference in terms of longevity and impact. Use a lash curler to gently curl your lashes, starting at the base and working your way up to the tips. Hold the curler in place for a few seconds to ensure a lasting curl. This will help your lashes appear longer and more lifted throughout the day.
Using a lash primer
For extra length and volume, consider using a lash primer before applying mascara. Lash primers create a base for your mascara to cling onto, resulting in more defined and long-lasting lashes. Apply the lash primer from the root to the tips of your lashes, then follow up with your favorite mascara for an intensified look.
Blush and bronzer tips
Blush and bronzer add warmth and dimension to your face, but they can also fade throughout the day. Here’s how to make them last longer.
Using a cream blush and bronzer
Cream blushes and bronzers tend to have better longevity compared to powder formulas. They blend seamlessly into the skin and adhere better, making them more resistant to fading. Use your fingertips or a damp beauty sponge to apply cream blush and bronzer for a natural and long-lasting flush of color.
Setting cream products with powder
While cream blushes and bronzers have great staying power on their own, you can enhance their longevity by setting them with a powder. After applying the cream products, lightly dust a matching powder blush or bronzer on top using a fluffy brush. This will set the cream products in place, ensuring they stay vibrant throughout the day.
Applying powder blush and bronzer in light layers
If you prefer powder blush and bronzer, apply them in light layers to achieve a natural and long-lasting look. Using a fluffy brush, tap off any excess product and gently sweep the blush or bronzer onto your cheeks or along the hollows of your face. Build up the intensity gradually, blending well between each layer, to avoid a heavy application that might fade quickly.
Lipstick tricks
Lipstick is a simple way to elevate your look, but it can easily wear off, especially after eating or drinking. Try these tricks to make your lipstick last longer.
Choosing long-wearing lipstick formulas
Opt for long-wearing lipstick formulas, such as matte, satin, or liquid lipsticks, which are designed to have better staying power. These formulas adhere to your lips and resist transferring, smudging, or fading for longer periods. Look for formulas that are labeled as long-lasting or transfer-proof.
Lining and filling in lips with a lip liner
Lip liner is a secret weapon for long-lasting lipstick. Start by outlining your lips with a lip liner that matches your lipstick shade or is slightly darker. Then, use the lip liner to fill in your entire lips. This creates a base for your lipstick, helps prevent feathering, and ensures a more even application.
Using a lip primer
To further enhance the longevity of your lipstick, apply a lip primer before your lipstick. Lip primers create a smooth base on your lips, minimize the appearance of fine lines, and help the lipstick adhere better. Apply a thin layer of lip primer all over your lips, then wait a few moments for it to dry before applying your lipstick.
Setting lipstick with translucent powder
After applying your lipstick, hold a tissue over your lips and lightly dust translucent powder on top. The tissue acts as a barrier, allowing the powder to set your lipstick without altering its color. This step helps to lock in the color and prevents it from transferring or fading throughout the day.
Setting spray
Setting spray is the final step in making your makeup last longer. It helps to seal everything in place and keeps your makeup looking fresh for hours.
Choosing a long-lasting setting spray
When selecting a setting spray, look for formulas that are labeled as long-lasting or have a matte finish. These setting sprays are designed to extend the wear of your makeup and prevent it from melting or fading. Choose a setting spray that suits your skin type, whether it’s hydrating for dry skin or oil-controlling for oily skin.
Applying setting spray after finishing makeup
Once you have completed your makeup, hold the setting spray about arm’s length away from your face and mist it evenly all over. Focus on areas where your makeup tends to fade or crease, such as your T-zone or under-eye area. Allow the setting spray to dry naturally, without touching or patting it dry, to ensure optimal longevity.
Packing a travel-size setting spray
To maintain your makeup throughout the day or for on-the-go touch-ups, consider carrying a travel-size setting spray in your bag. This allows you to refresh your makeup and ensure its longevity whenever needed. Simply spritz a few pumps of setting spray onto your face, hold your breath for a few seconds, and let it dry naturally.
Touch-up products
Even with all the preparations and long-lasting products, sometimes a quick touch-up is necessary to keep your makeup looking fresh.
Carrying blotting papers
To combat excess shine and oiliness throughout the day, carry blotting papers with you. Gently press the blotting paper onto shiny areas, such as your forehead, nose, and chin, to absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup. This will leave your skin looking matte and refreshed.
Using a makeup sponge for touch-ups
A makeup sponge is a versatile tool for touch-ups. It can be used to blend in any cakey or uneven areas of foundation or concealer, especially around the nose or under the eyes. Lightly dampen the sponge, blot away any excess moisture, and softly pat it onto the desired areas to create a seamless finish.
Applying powder on shiny areas
If you need to control shine or touch up your powder throughout the day, a small compact of translucent powder and a fluffy brush can be your best friends. Lightly dust the powder over shiny areas, such as your T-zone or cheeks, using the brush. This will mattify the areas and help to set your makeup, ensuring it lasts longer.
Having a small makeup brush for touch-ups
Carrying a small makeup brush, such as a fluffy eyeshadow brush or a small face brush, can be handy for quick touch-ups. If your eyeshadow has faded or you need to blend out any harsh lines, use the brush to soften and blend the colors. Additionally, you can use the brush to apply a light dusting of powder to specific areas or blush for a fresh flush of color.
Maintaining throughout the day
To ensure your makeup lasts as long as possible, there are a few habits and practices you can adopt throughout the day.
Avoiding touching your face
Touching your face throughout the day can transfer oils from your hands to your skin, causing your makeup to break down and fade faster. Try to resist the temptation to touch or rub your face, especially if your hands are not clean. If you need to adjust your makeup, use a tool or a tissue instead.
Blotting instead of reapplying
Instead of reapplying product throughout the day, use blotting papers or gently press a clean tissue onto your skin to remove any excess oil or sweat. This will freshen up your makeup without adding more product, preventing it from looking heavy or cakey.
Using oil-absorbing sheets
If you struggle with excess oil on your face, keeping oil-absorbing sheets handy can be a lifesaver. These sheets are designed to absorb oil without disturbing your makeup. Simply press the sheet onto shiny areas to remove excess oil and refresh your skin.
Protecting your makeup from humidity
Humidity can cause your makeup to melt or become patchy. To protect your makeup from humidity, consider using a long-lasting or waterproof formula, using a setting spray specifically designed for humidity, and avoiding heavy or thick products that may run or smudge. Additionally, try to stay in cool, air-conditioned areas or carry a handheld fan to minimize sweating.
By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your makeup stays in place and looks flawless throughout the day. Remember, proper prepping, long-lasting formulas, and a few touch-up products will go a long way in making your makeup last longer. So go ahead, experiment with different looks, and confidently rock your makeup all day!
