Step up your cosmetics game with these long-wear essentials that won’t smear or smudge beneath your PPE.
Hands up if you completely skip makeup when you know you’ll have to wear a mask? We’ve all been there in the past year, but now that we’re heading out and about more, it’s time to level up our cosmetics formulas so we can wear the makeup looks we love, even if we’ll be masked for part of the day. What’s required is a few key products designed to be long-wearing and resist friction and moisture. From a must-have primer to a comforting liquid lip colour, here’s a checklist of makeup finds that won’t budge under a mask.
For a strong start
Try: Pacifica Vegan Collagen Skin Solve Primer
Prep work is the secret to long-lasting makeup. Translation: Use a primer. This hydrating serum primer will create a grippy base that gives foundation, blush and highlighter more staying power. It also makes everything glide on smoothly, without settling into fine lines or pores.
For reliable coverage
Try: Maybelline SuperStay Full Coverage Foundation
Your energy levels may hit a 3 p.m. slump, but your foundation should never, ever fade. This high-pigment formula promises a beautifully even complexion and lasts up to 24 hours, which means you’ll be flawless before, during and after the wearing of a mask is required.
For imperfection correction
Try: Milani Conceal + Perfect Long Wear Concealer
As your line of defense against undereye circles, blemishes and dark spots, your concealer must stand up to wearing a mask. This silky formula understands the assignment, delivering full coverage for 12 hours of crease-free, water-resistant wear.
For shine control
Try: CoverGirl Clean Fresh Pressed Powder
Summer heat can make you perspire and increase your skin’s oil output, and adding a mask to your #OOTD doesn’t help matters. A light dusting of pressed powder can keep a glow from turning greasy. This talc-free compact contains tapioca and aloe vera powder, which absorb oil to control shine throughout the day, and leaves a natural-looking finish.
For lipstick that lasts
Try: Revlon ColorStay Satin Ink Liquid Lipstick
You don’t need to give up on lipstick just because you have to wear a mask. Meet this creamy liquid formula that lasts up to 16 hours (yes, really!) and is infused with black currant seed oil to help it feel comfortable. The range of gorgeous shades doesn’t disappoint either.
For a hit of hydration
Try: Physicians Formula Butter Believe It! Skin Mist
If you find that your makeup sinks into pores or fine lines over the day, a burst of hydration will be just the ticket. This weightless mist contains a trio of plant-based butters that help keep skin conditioned. Use it to set your makeup and to refresh moisture levels throughout the day.