Who hasn’t left the house with a naked face underneath their mask for a quick, socially distanced grocery run when the pantry is stone cold out of Doritos? Masking up to fight Covid-19 seems to render full-on makeup unnecessary, and even a little frivolous.
As we continue to wage the battle against coronavirus, the desire for a touch of enhancement and glamour is returning. Makeup makes us feel good. Makeup gives us confidence. Makeup is fun.
Whether you emphasize only features that the public can see or go all-out for a full face of makeup, finding smudge-proof cosmetics is essential in these mask-wearing times. Makeup experts advise a lighter touch when applying makeup and oil-free formulas that won’t streak.
Keep reading for our tips for mask-friendly makeup.
Accentuate the Eyes
Eyes are the focus of attention when facial expressions are harder to read (and who really wants to bother with lipstick right now). Go for maximum effect by layering lash-extending mascara on bottom as well as top lashes. Draw out cat eyes with liner for even more impact, and switch to metallic eye shadow to reflect the light.
Our Pick: Benefit Cosmetics They’re Real Lengthening Mascara, $25 (click here)
Fill in Brows
Polished brows create an immediate face-lifting effect. Fill in gaps with brow powder after combing up the hairs. Choose powder in a shade that matches your natural hair color. Finish by applying a clear gel to create a natural, feathery look.
Our Pick: Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Powder Duo, $23 (click here)
Ditch Foundation for Primer
Foundation worn under a mask will smudge and leave you streaked. For complexion-smoothing effects without the mess, trade in your foundation for the latest crop of multitasking primers. Look for tint-free liquid primers that will give a bright, dewy finish while hydrating and plumping skin.
Hide any blemishes with a concealer that exactly matches your skin tone. Dab on concealer with your fingers or a small brush around the eyes and forehead. Avoid points where the mask will rub: the bridge of the nose, top of the cheeks, and chin. Blend the edges to make the concealer disappear. Finish off by using bronzer to give a healthy glow to the skin around your hairline.
Our Pick: Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer Moisturizing Primer, $42 (click here)
Paint a Smudge-Proof Pout
Looking for lip color that won’t smear off on your mask and leave you looking like a toddler that got into mom’s makeup bag? Try today’s lip stains for a punch of pigment that stays no matter what. The color sits below the top layer of skin on your lips, for a result that is subtle and budge-proof.
For more impact, color your pout with a rosy lip pencil for a long-lasting tint before layering on a clear lip balm. Your mask is less likely to pick up a balm than a lipstick.
Our Pick: Benefit Cosmetics Benetint, $30 (click here)