Why Nailing The Time Difference Between Applying and Setting Your Makeup Is Key to Perfecting Your Base

If you find that your base makeup tends to look cakey and separate as the day goes on, it’s important to understand how to time your makeup routine correctly!

There are various reasons why your base makeup may not be meeting your expectations, such as applying products in the wrong order or not allowing them enough time to set.

For instance, if you apply powder directly onto an oily base, your makeup will likely start to separate and form clumps. You might even accidentally remove your original base makeup before you finish your look!

We’ve gathered some helpful tips on timing your makeup steps from Uncle Ze, a professional makeup artist on Xiaohongshu.

So, continue reading to discover his expert advice on achieving a flawless base effortlessly, and effectively managing the time difference between each step in your routine.

Skin Prep

First and foremost, proper skin prep is essential for achieving flawless base makeup!

According to many celebrity makeup artists, incorporating toner pads into your routine can make a significant difference. Simply apply them to your cheeks and forehead, leaving them on for three to five minutes to allow the toner to penetrate your skin!

This will not only hydrate your complexion but also minimise dryness, resulting in a radiant and smooth base for your makeup.

If you tend to have dry and flaky skin, especially around your nose, toner pads can work wonders. They help to soften the dead skin, and you can easily wipe it away with a toner pad, providing gentle exfoliation.

However, it’s crucial to take your time and not rush through your skincare routine. Remember, if your skincare is too heavy, your makeup won’t stay in place.

In the daytime, opt for a lightweight moisturiser and ensure it fully dries before starting your makeup application. To save time, you can also use tissues to blot away any excess oil and moisture from your face.

Colour Correction

Prepare for your base by correcting any blemishes! This will decrease the amount of foundation needed, as colour corrector can effectively neutralise more noticeable flaws by utilising complementary colors.

For those with sensitive skin prone to redness or reddish acne marks, a green colour corrector is ideal for reducing the appearance of redness.

On the other hand, if you have dark acne scars or dark circles, a peach or orange colour corrector can be used to balance out your skin tone.

First Foundation Layer

To start, apply a thin layer of foundation to achieve a smooth and even skin tone.

Uncle Ze recommends opting for a more lightweight foundation instead of a long-lasting one during this step, as long-lasting foundations tend to dry quickly.

For this specific makeup technique, it’s important to maintain a dewy and blendable finish, so focus on using a thin layer of foundation for a natural-looking coverage.

You can apply the foundation using either a brush or a spatula to minimise the amount of product used. Then, blend it out with a sponge to ensure an even application.

Setting the Eyes

To take the next step, focus on setting your makeup specifically around the eyes!

Start by using an eye primer as a base for your eye makeup. Then, lightly dust setting powder over your eyelids and brows. This will create a smooth canvas for your eye makeup to adhere to.

Next, apply your eye makeup as you normally would, including eyeshadow, mascara, and filling in your brows.

By following this routine, you’ll not only help your eye makeup last longer, but also ensure that it blends seamlessly with the rest of your makeup.

Once you’re done with your eye makeup, check if your foundation has started to separate. If it has, simply use a sponge to blend it out again, ensuring that your overall makeup looks smooth and even when you eventually set it!

Second Foundation Layer

To achieve better coverage, apply an additional layer of foundation once you’ve completed your eye makeup. This will effectively conceal any fallout or smudging, while also enhancing the smoothness of your overall base.

Furthermore, since the initial layer of foundation tends to have a dewy finish, it’s important to avoid applying powder directly onto it. This can lead to unevenness and separation caused by excess oil.

To combat this, it’s recommended to opt for a thicker and more matte foundation. This will help control the oiliness of your base and ensure a more seamless application.

To maintain a lighter makeup look, focus on applying this second layer primarily in the center of your face. This technique not only adds dimension but also highlights your facial features for a more radiant appearance.

Setting the Face

Finally, apply a light layer of powder all over your face to set your base makeup. To control oil production, be sure to press the powder into your skin instead of simply brushing it on.

For areas prone to oiliness like your T-zone, use a powder puff to apply extra powder and set your makeup for extended wear.

Afterward, continue with the rest of your makeup routine, and put the final touches on your flawless base!

Featured image credits: @泽叔唠妆/Xiaohongshu.