Mask Proof Makeup
Wearing a mask to protect yourself and others is a must, nearly a year after the COVID-19 Pandemic began. It prevents the spread of COVID-19 by filtering air-flow. Masks are a part of our day-to-day lives, but unfortunately, they can cause unwanted side effects on our skin, such as mask-related breakouts and blemishes. Face coverings can make it difficult for sweat to evaporate off the surface of our skin. Oil and bacteria can become trapped within our pores. The key is choosing lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic products that won’t contribute to clogged pores. Opting for cotton masks maximizes our skin’s ability to breathe and minimizes irritation. For makeup lovers, our challenge may be patchy foundation, smudged lipstick that transfers, smeared contour and blush that stains our masks. Bella Beauty NYC has compiled a list of go-to products that we can rely on to keep our makeup in place!
Hydration is of utmost importance in ensuring that our makeup remains long-lasting. It prevents our base makeup from cracking or crumbling. It also works as a barrier that works against our face mask, causing dryness and irritation.
The next step is using a long-lasting primer as a base that is a sticky and tacky formula that allows for foundation and concealers to stay put on the skin. Foundation sticks are incredibly versatile and can be found on the market, staying put for 15+ hours. When looking for a medium to full coverage foundation, look for transfer-proof, oil-absorbing, and humidity-resistant formula. Terms to keep an eye out for are waterproof, smear-proof, and long-wearing claims. BB-creams (Blemish Balm creams) are used for light touch-ups that work like primers and contain sunscreen and foundation. Most BB-creams are silicone-based and are less likely to smear.
Setting powder is usually reserved for the oily areas of our skin. It keeps the face shiny and oil-free that keeps our base makeup from transferring on our masks. Loose powder focused on areas of the skin where our masks will rub the most will ensure that our products are budge-proof.
Setting spray is a finishing spray and mist that holds our makeup in place and increases the longevity that prevents fading and smudges.
Long-wear liquid lipstick is your best friend and will hold up underneath a mask despite the friction. Lip stains stain the lips with a rich color pay-off and non-sticky feel, allowing for your face makeup to dry and set before putting on a mask.
Though masks cover 50% of our face, that’s no reason to forego makeup! Many beauty brands have plenty of long-wearing, smudge-proof makeup that will not transfer onto our masks.