Hindustan Times
Radiant, dewy and glowing, these are all desirable qualities when it comes to skin, but there’s a fine line between luminous and overly oily. While having an oily complexion does come with certain benefits, it’s essential to master the right makeup techniques to ensure your look stays intact throughout the day. Managing excess shine and keeping makeup fresh requires a few strategic steps.
13 Essential Makeup Tips for Oily Skin
Applying makeup on oily skin follows the same fundamental steps as any other skin type, but the techniques make all the difference. Here’s how to achieve a flawless, long-lasting finish:
1. Start With a Clean Base
Prepping oily skin correctly can transform how your makeup wears throughout the day. Begin by thoroughly cleansing your face to remove dirt, oil and debris. This ensures a smooth canvas for applying makeup and enhances its longevity.
2. Hydrate With a Lightweight Moisturizer
A common misconception is that oily skin doesn’t need moisture. However, hydration helps balance oil production. Using a lightweight, oil-free and non-comedogenic moisturizer ensures the skin remains supple without becoming greasy. Hydration also improves how makeup adheres to the skin.
3. Apply a Light Layer of Powder Before Foundation
A unique technique recommended by experts involves lightly dusting loose setting powder over the T-zone before applying foundation. This absorbs excess oil at the base level and helps create a matte effect, keeping shine in check throughout the day.
4. Use a Mattifying Primer
Primer is a crucial step in controlling shine. Opt for oil-free, mattifying primers designed to blur pores and extend makeup wear. These products help prevent excess oil from breaking through foundation and keep your skin looking fresh.
5. Don’t Forget the Eyelids
Oily eyelids can cause eyeshadow and eyeliner to smudge or crease. Applying an eye primer before makeup ensures that eye products stay in place all day without fading or smudging.
6. Choose a Matte Foundation
For oily skin, a matte or natural-finish foundation is the best choice. Look for formulas labeled as mattifying and long-wearing to combat excess shine. Avoid cushion compacts and foundations with dewy or luminous finishes, as these can make oily skin appear shinier.
7. Apply Foundation in Thin Layers
A heavy application of foundation can lead to a cakey appearance. Instead, apply in thin layers and build coverage gradually where needed. This technique allows for a more natural, skin-like finish while preventing excess oil from disrupting the makeup.
8. Layer Different Types of Powders
To enhance the longevity of makeup, experts suggest layering setting powders. First, use a translucent setting powder to lock in foundation, then apply a brightening setting powder under the eyes and on high points of the face. This technique prevents shine while adding dimension to the makeup.
9. Avoid Dewy and Luminous Formulas
While dewy skin is trendy, using luminous primers and foundations can exacerbate oiliness. Stick to mattifying and oil-free formulations to maintain a balanced, shine-free look.
10. Opt for Powder Highlighter
Highlighter is still an option for oily skin, but it’s best to choose powder formulas rather than creams or liquids. Apply sparingly to the tops of the cheekbones, brow bones and Cupid’s bow for a subtle glow without excess shine.
11. Finish With a Mattifying Setting Spray
To set everything in place, use a matte-finish setting spray. This not only helps melt powders seamlessly into the skin but also locks in makeup, reducing the need for touch-ups.
12. Keep Makeup Brushes Clean
Regularly washing makeup brushes prevents the buildup of oil and bacteria, which can contribute to breakouts. Clean brushes ensure a smooth application and help maintain the integrity of your makeup products.
13. Use Blotting Papers for Midday Touch-Ups
Despite the best techniques, some shine may appear throughout the day. Instead of layering on more powder, use blotting papers to absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup. Press the sheet onto oily areas rather than rubbing to maintain a flawless finish.
Best Makeup Products for Oily Skin
If you’re following all the right steps and still experiencing excess shine, your product choices might be the culprit. Here are some of the best makeup essentials tailored for oily skin:
- Primer: Choose an oil-free, mattifying primer that minimizes shine and extends wear.
- Foundation: Opt for long-wearing, matte-finish formulas that control oil production.
- Setting Powder: A finely milled translucent powder can help lock in makeup while preventing a cakey look.
- Setting Spray: A mattifying setting spray ensures makeup stays in place throughout the day.
- Blotting Papers: Keep blotting sheets handy for quick touch-ups to absorb unwanted shine.
With these expert tips and the right products, achieving a long-lasting, shine-free makeup look is easy. By prepping your skin correctly, selecting mattifying formulas and incorporating strategic touch-ups, you can enjoy flawless makeup that stays fresh all day long.