Written by Maria Nichol
With Lockdown 2.0 well underway, it’s fair to say adjusting to wearing a mask is something we’ve all had to do. As someone who likes to wear a lot of makeup, applying your cosmetics to last a mask can be a bit of a tricky field, but I have some tips that will help give your makeup real staying power.
PREP THE SKIN TO AVOID MASKNE
As with most makeup application, you need a reliable base, and it’s more important than ever if you’re looking to avoid nasty breakouts from mask-wearing and makeup combos (maskne!). The night before, I like to add a nice, nourishing serum, my go-to is Dr Sebagh’s Serum repair Hyaluronic Acid, to add moisture, and once a week I use The Inkey List’s Apple Cider Vinegar Acid Peel. The next day, I cleanse with a mild cleanser (you should try Skincity!), before a vitamin C serum and mild moisturiser (OSKIA and Elemis’ Pro Collagen Marine Cream are my go-to’s).
THE POWER OF POWDER
I can’t stress this enough – if you don’t set the makeup, the mask will absorb and move/remove your foundation. Ideally, it’s best not to wear makeup on the lower half of your face, as dermatologists say that heavy makeup combined with the humidity under your mask can interfere with sebum production – which of course leads to clogged pores and breakouts.
If you’re a prolific makeup wearer (like me) opt for lighter, more breathable formulas (I love The Ordinary’s Coverage Foundation, or Stila’s Hide & Chic Fluid Foundation), or ditch the foundation in favour of concealer, dotted over any blemishes or redness.
Now to the important part – set that face. Get yourself a reliable translucent powder and apply liberally. Alternatively, you can use a setting spray too – Urban Decay’s All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray is ideal – both formulas are great as an extra protective layer.
ADD DRAMA WITH THE EYES
Your eyes are going to be the focal point when you wear a mask, so concentrate on adding lasting drama. A statement wing is the quickest way to uplift your look – my favourite liquid liner is from NYX. Tip: use a small condensed brush (like this one ) with a small amount of powder and apply on top of the liner to seal it.
This is also the perfect opportunity to experiment with new eye makeup too! Try the fox eye trend, or load up on colour with a cut-crease. My favourite palettes are from Morphe, the pigments are outstanding and reasonably priced too (especially their 24A Artistry palette).
LOAD UP ON LASHES
Don’t underestimate the lashes either. If you’re looking to work with your natural lashes, grab a curler and a volumising mascara (Marc Jacobs Beauty’s At Lash’d and KVD Vegan Beauty’s Go Big or Go Home are my staples) and layer up the formula. Need a little more volume? Try some falsies, I love the KISS magnetic lashes as they’re super easy to apply and are lightweight on the lids too.
GIVE THE BROWS SOME ATTENTION
As with the eyes, your brows can make a statement too. For that laminated look, wet your spoolie and brush a small amount of soap through your brows in an upwards diagonal motion. Carve out your brows with a matching powder for fullness, but be sure to buff out any harsh lines and make those arches believable. I love BBB London and Anastasia Beverly Hills brow formulas, you can’t go wrong with their pomades and gels.
LEAVE THE LIPPIE AT HOME
Now for the lips. Since they’ll be concealed with your face covering, you do have a few options. You can of course just leave the lips, but I would say if you love a lip colour, opt for more neutral tones, and for a formula that’s super hydrating. Avoid brighter tones that might smudge when you’re taking your mask on and off, and ditch a sticky gloss in favour of something like a balm. I like using the delilah lip line as it blends nicely and doesn’t dry out my lips. Another choice is Perricone MD, their No Makeup lipstick in Pink is super nourishing and feels lightweight too.