RUBY REVEALS: HOW TO PREVENT YOUR MAKEUP CAKING

Despite your best efforts, are you finding your makeup appears cakey and creased throughout the day? Do you find your flawless finish looks patchy and thick after a few hours? Don't worry, it happens to everyone at some point! 

There are several reasons for makeup to crack and crease, from not prepping the skin, application technique to using products which don't suit your skin type.

PREP

Great makeup is always underpinned by great skincare, prior to makeup ensure your skin is clean and hydrated, leaving a beat before starting your makeup routine. If you have oily skin it can swallow up your makeup, or mix with your base to make it patchy. If skin is very dry and you use a powdery dry formula it may crack and flake.

PRIMER

Once you've cleansed and moisturised, finish your prep by applying a primer suited to your skin and the type of finish you would like. Primer not only prevents your makeup sinking in to the skin, it stops the natural oils altering your makeup - both of which can cause it to start looking cakes. 

LESS IS MORE

When applying any style of makeup always start with less and build up. If you apply too much product, as you built up the coverage you will find it uneven and hard to blend. Build up coverage gradually as needed, it is easier to add more rather than remove product.

BLEND! 

Proper blending is essential to prevent cakey makeup. I often apply foundation with a damp sponge or foundation brush, finessing the finish with my fingers for a natural finish. Always blend in one direction only, for the illusion of a smoother finish. 

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FORMULA

Go for lightweight and breathable formulas that are less likely to cake up, you can always build the layers for heavier coverage. Even with lightweight formulas, you should avoid being heavy handed with the application as this can still lead to a 'mask-like' finish. 

TRANSLUCENT POWDER

Powder sets your makeup, makeing it last longer, and providing a smoother finish. However, like with foundation and concealer, applying too much can have the opposite effect. Apply a light veil only in the areas you feel need it, such as the t-zone, to mattify and reduce shine. You can touch up with powder throughout the day, but doing this too often or with too much product can actually make your face look more cakes, rather than less. 

HYDRATION 

If you find your skin needs extra hydration, spritz it throughout the day with a facial mist or hydrating setting spray. Not only will this refresh your makeup, it helps to prevent the dry, cakey finish that can appear.

BLOTTING PAPER

Blotting papers may appear retro, but they are the perfect handbag accessory.  Carry a few sheets with you to absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup.

MAKEUP REMOVAL

At the end of each day, ensure you remove your makeup thoroughly using a gentle cleanser or makeup remover. Going to bed with your makeup still on can lead to clogged pores and potential skin issues that'll impact makeup application. 

 By following these simple techniques and using the right products for your skin, you can say farewell to cakey makeup and hello to a fresh finish all day long.