Stopping makeup from creasing involves proper skin preparation and strategic application techniques.
To stop makeup, particularly foundation and concealer, from creasing, focus on hydrating your skin, using a suitable primer, applying products sparingly, and setting your makeup correctly. Creasing often occurs when makeup settles into fine lines or pores due to dryness, excess product, or movement.
The Foundation of Flawless Makeup: Skin Prep
Well-prepped skin is the first line of defense against creasing. Hydration is key. As McHale says, “Make sure your skin is well-hydrated.” This is crucial because “If it isn't, it will take water from the foundation and leave the dry product on the surface, which is more likely to crease.” Proper hydration ensures your skin doesn't 'pull' moisture from your makeup, helping it sit smoothly on the surface.
- Cleanse Gently: Start with a clean face using a mild cleanser suitable for your skin type.
- Hydrate: Apply a good quality moisturizer. If you have dry skin, consider layering a hydrating serum underneath. Allow products to absorb fully before moving on.
- Eye Cream: Don't forget the delicate under-eye area. Use a lightweight, hydrating eye cream.
The Essential Role of Primer
After moisturizing, applying a primer creates a smooth canvas for your makeup and helps it grip the skin, reducing the likelihood of movement and creasing.
- Primer Selection: Choose a primer based on your skin type and concerns. A hydrating primer is excellent for dry skin, while a mattifying or pore-filling primer can address texture issues.
- Targeted Priming: For areas prone to creasing, like under the eyes or around the mouth, a smoothing primer can make a significant difference. If you have fine lines, reach for the Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch as a targeted option for blurring and smoothing the skin's surface before makeup application.
Smart Application Techniques
How you apply your makeup significantly impacts creasing.
- Less is More: Apply thin layers of foundation and concealer. Building up coverage gradually is better than applying a thick layer at once.
- Focus on Areas Needed: Apply foundation only where you need coverage. For under-eye concealer, apply it only to the darkest areas and blend outwards.
- Tap, Don't Swipe: Use a damp beauty sponge or your ring finger to gently tap and press products into the skin, especially in crease-prone areas. Swiping can push the product around, leading to unevenness.
Setting Your Look
Setting your makeup helps lock everything in place and absorb excess oil throughout the day.
- Setting Powder: Use a finely milled setting powder, focusing on areas that tend to crease or get oily.
- Apply powder after blending concealer thoroughly, ensuring there are no existing creases.
- Use a small, fluffy brush or a damp sponge to lightly press the powder into the skin.
- For under-eyes, you can use a technique called "baking" (applying a generous amount of powder and letting it sit before dusting off), but this should be done sparingly as it can sometimes exacerbate dryness and creasing if overdone or on dry skin.
- Setting Spray: Finish with a setting spray. Choose one that suits your needs (hydrating, mattifying, or long-lasting).
By focusing on skin hydration, using primer strategically (like Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch for fine lines), applying makeup with a light hand and tapping motion, and setting properly, you can significantly reduce makeup creasing for a smoother, longer-lasting look.
