Tips for Making Your Makeup Last All Day

By Jasmine Torres, Makeup & Artistry | International Institute of Beauty

Whether you’re heading to a nine to five, a night out, or a full day wedding event, one of the biggest makeup frustrations is watching your flawless look melt, fade, or crease by midday. The good news? With the right prep, products, and techniques, long lasting makeup isn’t just possible, it’s achievable for every skin type and every look.

Here are my top tips for locking in your glam from AM to PM, without the dreaded mid afternoon touch up scramble.

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1. Start With a Clean, Moisturised Canvas

Makeup longevity starts well before you apply a single drop of foundation. Clean, well hydrated skin helps products apply smoothly and stay put.

• Cleanse: Begin with a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type to remove excess oil, dirt, or leftover product.

• Moisturise: Hydration is non negotiable, even oily skin needs moisture. Go for lightweight gel creams if you’re prone to shine, or richer formulas if you’re dry.

• Don’t skip SPF: Opt for a non greasy sunscreen or choose a moisturiser with SPF that won’t interfere with makeup layering.

2. Prime Time: Choose the Right Primer

Think of primer as double sided tape for your makeup, it helps everything grip and stay in place.

• For oily skin: Look for mattifying primers that control shine and blur pores.

• For dry or mature skin: Choose hydrating primers that smooth texture and plump the skin.

• For textured or acne prone skin: Go for pore filling or blurring primers to create a soft focus finish.

Apply your primer with your fingers for better blendability and control, just don’t overdo it. A pea sized amount is plenty.

3. Layering is Key: Less is More

A common mistake that leads to caking and separation is piling on too much product. The solution? Thin, buildable layers.

• Foundation: Opt for long wear or transfer resistant formulas. Apply with a damp beauty sponge or buffing brush for seamless coverage.

• Concealer: Focus only where you need it, under the eyes, around the nose, or on blemishes. Again, blend thoroughly and lightly.

  
  

4. Set It and Forget It: Powder with Precision

Setting powder is your best friend for locking in base makeup, especially in the T zone.

• Use a finely milled translucent powder and press it in gently with a puff or sponge.

• Focus on areas that crease or get oily, under the eyes, around the nose, forehead, and chin.

• Avoid over powdering dry areas, as it can accentuate texture.

You can also try “baking” if you’re going for a full glam look, but for everyday wear, a light dusting usually does the trick.

5. Choose Long Wearing Formulas

Your product selection matters more than you might think. Long wear, waterproof, and smudge resistant formulas are designed to last all day.

• Blush and bronzer: Cream formulas tend to last longer, but you can lock them in with a powder version layered on top.

• Eyeliners: Use gel or liquid liners with waterproof claims, especially for hooded eyes or humid climates.

• Eyeshadows: Prime your lids before applying shadow. You can use a designated eye primer or a tiny bit of concealer, set with powder.

6. Don’t Underestimate Setting Spray

Setting spray is like hairspray for your face, except lighter and more skin loving. It melts layers together and seals the deal.

• Spritz it in an X and T motion to cover the entire face evenly.

• Let it air dry, don’t fan it with your hands.

• For extra grip, spray your sponge with setting spray and press it gently into your skin after powdering.

7. Blot, Don’t Reapply

If you get shiny throughout the day, avoid piling on more powder, it can lead to a cakey finish.

Instead:

• Use blotting papers to gently absorb oil without disturbing your makeup.

• If needed, lightly tap on a bit of powder only where necessary after blotting.

Carrying a mini powder compact or translucent blotting powder in your bag is a lifesaver during hot, busy days.

8. Eyes and Lips: The Finishing Touches

• Mascara: Go waterproof if you’re prone to smudging or have watery eyes.

• Lipstick: Use a lip liner underneath your lipstick to anchor it in place. For bold colours, layer with a matching matte formula or a liquid lipstick.

• Touch up kit: Pack the essentials, lipstick, blotting sheets, powder puff, for on the go maintenance.

Final Thoughts: Long Lasting Makeup is All About Smart Prep

There’s no need to settle for faded foundation or vanishing eye makeup halfway through the day. With strategic prep, quality products, and a few clever techniques, your makeup can look fresh and fabulous for hours on end.

So go ahead, dance in the sun, crush that meeting, or say yes to the after party. Your makeup’s got your back.