Makeup is so versatile, and really there’s no right or wrong way to apply it.
What does “cakey” makeup even mean?
So, what does “cakey” makeup really look like?
To follow, what habits and techniques are making your makeup look cakey and how to fix it.
Why it happens & how to avoid it.
This is why it’s so essential to tend to your skin before any makeup touches it.
The solution: Cleanse and prep.
“This helps clean the skin and does a gentle exfoliation, removing dead skin.”
you’re free to opt for a gentlefacial cleanseras well if that’s more your speed.
This will help depuff the skin and make your face look even more sculpted.
Want to dive deeper into skin prep?This beauty breakdown has everything you better know.
The problem: You’re applying too much product.
Applying too much product is the leading cause of cakey makeup, makeup artistAlexandria Gilleotells mbg.
Too much product can mean too much foundation, concealer, or powder.
The solution: Start slow and build.
Liquid foundation is the most popular medium, so picture that one in your mind.
Once it’s there, you have greater control over how much actually goes on your face.
Then, blend onto your face and down your neck.
The problem: You’re mixing textures incorrectly.
Read: If you want a dewy, luminous look, then stick to products marketed as such.
If you better limit oil and shine on the skin, then look formattifying productsrather than glow-inducing ones.
The solution: Use similar bases.
“If you have oily skin, using a more mattifying foundation will be best,” French explains.
The problem: You’re using expired products.
The solution: Check your products.
The problem: You’re touching up your makeup too many times.
The solution: Schedule in time to redo your look.
Say you’re on vacation and you have a full day planned out.
The problem: You’re layering too many products.
The solution: Underpaint your makeup.
For those especially prone to a cakey finish, you might want to look into theunderpaintingmethod.
you might even try applying your bronzer and blush as a base, then going in with foundation after.
Gilleo opts for a setting spray and makeup sponge dual approach.
Use blotting sheets.
After that, she goes in with blotting sheets.
Continue blending.
You don’t want to declare your makeup cakey too soon.
If you barely blended your foundation, especially if it’s a thicker product, simply keep blending.
Sometimes it takes longer than you think, but the smooth finish will be worth the time investment.
If you’re using a brush, swap to a makeup sponge or even clean fingers.
You may just need to shake up your method to see the best results.
Remove makeup from areas that easily crease.
it’s possible for you to do this with micellar water on a cotton round or a damp tissue.
“Add a tiny bit ofmoisturizerand reapply theconcealer,” she adds.
Switch brushes or sponges.
Instead, grab a fresh tool and continue blending as you normally would.
If you’re using a sponge, still get it slightly damp rather than go in dry.
This way, your fresh tool will absorb the excess product while blending at the same time.
The key to a smooth finish is applying makeup to well-hydrated skin and not using too much product.
Always start small and build the coverage as you see fit.
Let your makeup set in between layers.