Inconsistent texture across the skin is almost always one of the reasons to blame for makeup separating and becoming patchy—this could include an acne break out or having a generally rough skin type. The biggest culprit of separation and patchiness is dry skin, says pro celebrity makeup artist and founder of Monika Blunder Beauty, Monika Blunder. “Makeup can cling to the dry patches of your skin in a different way, causing it to look patchy and cakey,” says Blunder. The rough, uneven texture some people experience is easily emphasized when foundation separates and settles in, says Lynnette Cole, PUR education director. Celebrity makeup artist Cara Lovello says acne can also be one of the culprits behind uneven cosmetic makeup. This all boils down to having a better skincare routine to prevent dryness and acne, which can lead to unwanted separated foundation. Here are some tips, plus product recommendations, the experts suggest for beating separating foundation and patchy makeup application.
How to prevent foundation separation during makeup applicaton
Make sure skin is hydrated with moisturizing skincare
To avoid separation, “make sure your skin is well prepped and moisturized, and give a little extra love to any especially dry patches on your face,” advises Blunder. She loves using a salve or balm product with a hydrating formula on the dry spots to help ensure flawless foundation application. “Ensuring your face has enough slip and moisture will guarantee your makeup goes on smoothly and evenly,” says Blunder. She suggests choosing a product that’s formula is emollient or oil-based with a translucent base. Blunder likes to use Undercover Face Crème ($95) for skin prep to facilitate easy makeup application.
But don’t apply too much moisturizer product to skin
This might seem contrary to other tips, but Cole recommends avoiding going overboard with products before putting on foundation. “Prepping the skin is key,” she says. However, “applying too much moisturizer or not allowing it to dry before applying makeup primer can cause pilling or foundation to appear patchy.“ She recommends going with a lightweight moisturizer like Cloud Cream ($38).
Use primer to create a good foundation for makeup application
Lovello recommends not only moisturizing before makeup application but also using a primer. Making sure skin is “soft to the touch before you start putting makeup on” will help prevent foundation separating, she says.
Exfoliate skin
Lovello says exfoliating can help combat dry skin and separated makeup. Cole also recommends exfoliating twice a week to remove dead skin using a chemical or physical exfoliant product, like PUR Joystick Exfoliating Deep Pore Clay Cleansing Stick ($26) or Downtown Detox ($28).
Choose the right foundation formula that won’t separate or break
If you have patchy problems, Blunder recommends going for a foundation that slides and blends smoothly as opposed to a powder product. She suggests Blunder Cover ($52), as it’s an easily spreadable hybrid foundation and concealer.
