Foundation is the base and one of the most essential parts of makeup. It comes in various formulas such as liquid, powder, stick, or balm. The coverage level and its ability to conceal acne scars or dark spots, also varies, ranging from light and medium to full coverage Unfortunately, if not applied correctly, foundation can become patchy, fail to adhere properly to the skin, and easily shift throughout the day. To prevent and fix patchy foundation, check out the expert tips below for a flawless finish!
What Causes Patchy Foundation?
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Patchy foundation can happen for several reasons, and understanding them is the first step to fixing it. Here are the most common causes:
1. Dry or Dehydrated Skin
When your skin lacks moisture, foundation struggles to blend evenly and can cling to dry patches, making your makeup look uneven or flaky.
2. Skipping Skincare Prep
Applying foundation on unprepped skin, without moisturizer or primer can cause it to sit unevenly on the surface, especially around textured or oily areas.
3. Wrong Foundation Formula
Using a foundation that doesn’t suit your skin type (for example, a matte foundation on dry skin or a dewy one on oily skin) can cause it to separate or slide off during the day.
4. Over-Application
Applying too much product at once can lead to buildup, making it harder for the foundation to set smoothly and naturally.
5. Improper Blending Technique
Using the wrong tool or not blending properly can cause streaks and uneven texture. A damp beauty blender or dense brush works best for a seamless finish.
6. Skipping Primer or Using the Wrong One
Primer helps foundation adhere better and last longer. Without it or with a primer that doesn’t suit your skin type, the foundation can separate or become patchy.
Tips for a Smooth and Flawless Foundation Finish
Here are some ways you can fix patchy foundation on your skin:
1. Exfoliate Regularly Each Week
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The buildup of dead skin cells can make your skin’s surface uneven, causing foundation to appear patchy when applied. Especially patchy foundation on the nose that can ruin your day. Regular exfoliation, whether physical or chemical, helps smooth the skin’s texture, allowing your foundation to apply more evenly and last longer.
2. Moisturize Properly
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Keeping your skin hydrated is essential before applying foundation. Dry skin can cause foundation to flake or peel off easily. That’s why you should apply an adequate amount of moisturizer and let it absorb fully before moving on to makeup. When applying moisturizer, focus on the T-zone and the under-eye area, as these are the spots where foundation tends to get patchy.
3. Apply Primer Before Foundation
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While moisturizer works to hydrate the skin’s surface, primer functions to lock in your foundation so it stays in place and lasts longer. Especially for oily skin, a matte-finish primer not only helps hold the foundation but also controls excess oil and blurs pores, allowing the base makeup to blend seamlessly with the skin. Now you can say bye-bye to the patchy foundation on your nose.
4. Blend Foundation with a Beauty Blender
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Compared to makeup tools like brushes or puffs, blending foundation with a damp beauty blender is more recommended because it absorbs and distributes the product evenly, providing smooth and optimal coverage. Using a brush, on the other hand, can make the foundation look patchy and emphasize uneven skin texture.
5. Apply Foundation Gradually
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Applying too much foundation at once to achieve maximum coverage can actually make your makeup look unnatural and cause the foundation to appear patchy. To achieve high coverage, apply it gradually and focus only on specific areas of the face you want to conceal.
6. Lock It In with Setting Spray
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The final tip to make your foundation last all day is to set it evenly with just the right amount of setting spray. Besides locking your makeup in place, a setting spray also helps remove makeup residue and gives a more natural, seamless finish.