When I started wearing makeup, I often faced a problem. I would apply foundation and immediately my makeup would look smooth and match my skin tone, and after a few hours, my skin would sometimes look orange, and sometimes the foundation would look gray. I was surprised that the foundation that looked so good at first. Why does it look different after a while. This was one of the most frustrating makeup problems for me. Later I realized that one of the reasons for this could be foundation oxidation, which is the process of changing the makeup shade.
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Now, according to my understanding, it is not enough to just select the shade of foundation. We should also see how it looks after applying it on the skin. To understand this process, it is necessary to know about makeup oxidation.
In this article, I will tell you does why foundation color change, how do i recognize this problem, and what things need to be considered for fresh looking makeup.
What is makeup oxidation?
According to my understanding and experience, makeup discoloration refers to the change in the color of the foundation that is visible after applying the product. For example, you apply foundation and it looks natural at first, but after some time it fades.
Oxidation is a chemical process in which some ingredients react with oxygen, but not every time a foundation darkens due to oxidation, the product’s formula and pigmented and natural oils of the skin can also affect.
I think it’s important to understand these factors because it helps us make the right changes to our makeup routine.
What are the reasons for changing the color of the foundation?
1. When your skin produce natural oil
Our skin naturally produces oil. When this oil mixes with foundation, it can change the finish of the makeup. Especially on oily skin, shine starts to appear after a few hours, which makes the best dark or irresistible.
As my skin is oily, I prefer a lightweight foundation. I also use setting powder when needed, but too much powder can make my makeup look cakey, so I only use it when needed.
2. When your foundation formula is different
Every foundation formula is different. Some products maintain their color after application to the skin, while others may change in appearance over time.
In my opinion, you should not buy a product just by looking at the popularity of the brand. Select the formula, finish, and texture according to your skin needs. What looks good on someone else may not necessarily look good on you.
3. When you choose wrong shade or undertone
When we choose foundation, we should pay attention to the lightness and darkness of our skin as well as its undertone.
If the undertone of the foundation doesn’t match your skin tone, it can look yellow or orange. In such a situation, you may think that the product has oxidized, when in fact, it could be a shade selection.
That’s why instead of testing foundation on my hand, I do it on the jawline, and then I see in natural light how well it matches my face and neck.
4. When you prepare your skin
It’s also not a good idea to ignore skincare before makeup. Not applying a moisturizer on dry skin can cause foundation to become patchy, while heavy products on oily skin can create extra shine.
I will suggest you use a cleanser and moisturizer according to your skin type, apply sunscreen during the day, and give skin products time to absorb before you apply foundation.
5. When weather and humidity affect
When there is hot and humid weather, then sweat and excess oil affect your makeup, which causes foundation to look uneven or shiny after a while.
In such weather, use a lightweight base. If oil or dirt gets on your face, gently absorb it with a tissue or blotting paper. This is how, you can keep your makeup look fresh without applying extra layers of foundation.
Why you should check the quantity of foundation?
The quantity of foundation is also important when applying makeup. If you apply too much foundation at one time, it can form heavy layers on the face, which can make the makeup look uneven or cakey. Especially when your skin is oily, I think it’s best to start with a small amount of foundation. First, apply a light layer on your face, then add a little more product if needed, and that’s how you get natural coverage.
Give foundation time to set on the skin
Do not decide on the final result immediately after applying foundation. Some products usually take time to settle on the skin, which is why their finish and color may look different initially. After completing my makeup, I check my face in natural light and if I see if the shade of foundation is dark or orange, I make sure before applying to makeup. Is it because of the light or undertone. I wait for some time and then the actual appearance of the product i get.
How to reduce foundation oxidation?
1. Test the product first before using it
Before buying a new foundation, apply a small amount on the jawline. Do not decide on the shade right away. Check again in natural light after some time to see if there is any noticeable change in the color.
I personally find this step very useful, especially when I have to try a brand foundation for the first time.
2. You should select the correct formula
I personally choose foundation according to my skin type and the finish i prefered. if you have an oily skin then a lightweight or oil-control formula is a good option for you, while a hydrated formula can also feel more comfortable on dry skin.
Also, take care of your undertone. Just selecting a light or dark shade does not necessarily mean you will get a perfect match.
3. I use primer and setting powder wisely
A primer helps apply makeup evenly, while setting powder can control extra shine, but these products should be used according to your skin’s needs.
Remember that primers and powders do not completely prevent the oxidation of every foundation, so keep them a part of your makeup routine rather than considering them a guaranteed solution.
4. Store foundation properly
Keep the product away from direct sunlight and extra heat. Close the bottle tightly after use and keep checking the expiration date.
When I find the texture or appearance of a foundation unpleasant, I avoid using it.
Final Takeaway
Foundation color change can be caused by makeup oxidation, but it is not always caused by oxidation. The wrong shade of the foundation, the natural oils of the skin, the formulation of the product, and the lighting also affect the look of your makeup. I think when choosing a foundation, you should not just look at its color in the bottle, but test it on your skin and check it in natural light after some time, as well as moisturize your skin. When you take care of these little things, it will help your foundation look more natural and even.
FAQs:
When does foundation start to oxidize?
There is no fixed time. Some products may look different in a short time, while others maintain their original consistency for several hours.
Does foundation look darker on oily skin?
Yes, when my skin is oily, it affects the skin finish. But this does not happen on every oily skin. The formula also plays an important role.
Can primer prevent oxidation?
Applying primer evenly over makeup helps us but does not completely prevent oxidation.
How can you choose the right shade of foundation?
Test the product on the jawline and compare it with the face and neck in natural light. It is also useful to check the shade again after some time.
Why does your foundation look orange?
I have seen foundation look orange due to incorrect undertone shade selection or skin tone formula, but the actual cause may be different in each situation.
Disclaimer:
In this article, I have shared general information and my personal beauty experience. you can achieve different result as everyone has skin preferences different. hence, before using a new product, do a patch test. If there is irritation or allergy, so stop using the product and consult a dermatologist if needed.