If you have oily skin, you know what a struggle it is to get your makeup to last all day. Your skin’s natural oils can cause makeup to shift and break down, making it look uneven. Not to mention, touching up your makeup several times a day can make it look cakey and uneven. It’s essential to do proper skin care prep and use makeup products that work for, rather than against, your skin. From the importance of moisturizer, to how to choose the right foundation, priming your eyelids, and more, here’s how to get makeup to last on oily skin.
How to Get Makeup to Last on Oily Skin
1. Start with Skincare
Proper skin prep is a must for long-lasting makeup that doesn’t look greasy or oily. Start by cleansing your face with a product such as the CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, which is made for oily skin. Formulated with essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, it will help remove excess oil without stripping moisture from your skin. Follow up with a toner like the Tula Skincare Clarifying Tonic to minimize pores and balance your skin’s natural oils.
2. Make Sure to Moisturize
Moisturizing is an essential step for oily skin as it helps regulate oil production and prevents dehydration. When your skin is dehydrated, it starts overcompensating by producing more oil, so don’t skip moisturizing morning and night. For daytime, under makeup, opt for a lightweight, oil-free formula that hydrates without adding shine. The CeraVe Oil Control Moisturizing Gel rebalances oily skin by absorbing excess oil and restoring the protective skin barrier. The non-greasy formula feels refreshing and will leave your skin with a matte finish.
3. Prime Your Skin
Look for a good mattifying primer. This will create a smooth surface for makeup application, which is key for oily skin. Focus on areas prone to excess oil, such as the T-zone, to keep shine under control. A primer acts as a barrier between your skin’s natural oils and your makeup, which will help make your foundation last all day. The Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Primer is a fan favourite for creating a flawless base and shielding your makeup against oiliness.
4. Choose the Right Foundation
Your foundation plays a pivotal part in how long your makeup will last. Look for foundations labeled “oil-free,” “mattifying,” or “long-wear” as these formulas are specifically designed to withstand oil production and stay in place throughout the day. Opt for a powder foundation such as the Bare Minerals Matte Powder Foundation or matte liquid foundation like the L’Oréal Infallible Pro Matte Foundation, which is oil free and lasts for up to 24 hours.
5. Use a Setting Powder (On Top Of and Below Your Makeup)
If you want your makeup to last, setting it with a setting powder is a no-brainer, but you can also use it under your primer and foundation for extra staying power. The Bare Minerals Mineral Veil Pressed Setting Powder is weightless and talc-free. It extends makeup wear while minimizing the look of pores over time. Formulated with shea and cocoa butters to nourish the skin, and vitamin E to defend against environmental stressors, it will leave your skin with a smooth, natural finish. Make sure to focus on areas that tend to get extra shiny.
6. Use Powder Blush and Bronzer
Powder blushes and bronzers are typically best for oily skin as they have mattifying and oil-absorbing properties. We love the Glo Beauty Pressed Bronzer and the e.l.f. Matte Blush. If you prefer cream bronzers and blushes, you can still use them, but consider layering powder products on top to help mattify your makeup. It’s also best to avoid any bronzers that are heavily shimmered as this can cause the skin to look even shinier.
7. Eyeshadow Primer is a Must
If you wear eyeshadow you know that creasing can be a serious issue for those with oily skin. Using an eyeshadow primer can make a world of difference to set your eyeshadow in place. A primer will create a base that prevents oils from breaking down your eyeshadow throughout the day. The e.l.f. Lock It Down Eyeshadow Primer has a non-greasy feel, helps hold and intensify colour, and reduces smudging and creasing so your eyeshadow stays put and looks amazing.
8. Focus on Skincare for Long Term Results
The makeup you wear is only half the battle. Good skincare is key to managing oily skin in the long term. Regular exfoliation can help clear pores and prevent makeup from breaking apart on the skin. The ingredients you use are also important. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production, boosting moisture and balancing your skin (check out the Good Molecules Niacinamide Serum). Salicylic acid dissolves dead skin cells and helps to regulate sebum production, making it ideal for oily skin. The Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser removes makeup and dirt, while reducing excess oil, exfoliating, and soothing your complexion.
9. Carry Blotting Papers
While all these tips will help, you may need to still carry around blotting papers for touch-ups during the day. Blotting papers remove oil without you needing to add powder, which can make your skin look cakey. They provide a matte finish without drying out your complexion and help maintain your skin’s natural moisture levels.
If you’re an oily skin gal, use these tips and products to help your makeup last all day!
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