8 Tips to Touch Up Your Makeup at Noon

No matter what type of look you prefer — whether it’s natural, “no makeup” or a full face after 10 or more steps — you have to admit that there’s nothing like feeling perfect before you leave every morning. Makeup is something we put a lot of effort into. In addition to being a form of self-expression, it means celebrating yourself every day. Choosing to spend an extra 15 minutes getting your silhouette just right, or finding the perfect shade of lipstick, is a way to put your best foot forward and brave the new day. If only makeup lasts all day. Actually, keeping your makeup “flighty” takes more work than a perfect application at the start of the day. Often, in situations where commutes, traffic and weather require support, we find ourselves needing a grooming session or two before finishing in the morning.

While lasting makeup is the goal, embellishment is unavoidable. Try to think of it as an enhancement to your already amazing # MakeupofTheday, not a temporary fix. But remember, the goal is to keep retouching to a minimum — too much can lead to clogged pores and other skin problems. Here’s a guide to keeping your look fresh, including tips for midday grooming.

Start with a good base

Your foundation will go a long way in determining whether your look will last all day. A reliable foundation that provides even coverage and matte finish is your best choice. Don’t try to pile it up, though — have the foundation and work with the idea that less is more. This will also make it easier to reapply in case you have to freshen up at any time of day.

Choose an oil-free foundation that is suitable for wearing for a long time. Find a consistency that feels soft and light on your skin but is easy to build for full coverage. This way, whether you are making up for a casual day or a formal evening event, this product will meet your needs.

Don’t skip out on moisture

If you’ve been using makeup for a long time, you know that half the work starts before you apply it — in your skin care products. If your skin is hydrated and prepared, the product won’t slip off easily. Because you don’t need much product in the first place, it’s easier to build.

Another tip is to use a moisturizer as a retouching tool. You can mix a little moisturizer with a illuminator and remove dry patches in areas that look a bit dry.

Prime, prime, prime

From your eyeshadow to your lipstick, a primer can go a long way with a little makeup. Apply your eyes, followed by eyeshadow and powder to prevent wrinkles. Eyelash primer helps tone lashes and create long-lasting mascara. For your lips, start by hydrating. Use a trusty lip balm before applying your lip primer, which will help your lipstick last longer. You can also make an extra effort to exfoliate, especially if you’re at a long day or special event.

Opt for cream products

When choosing cosmetics, it’s best to opt for creams that look fresher than powdered products. Cream products are also easier to reapply because you don’t have to spend as much time polishing and reapplying. When you find that you need a little color, rub some cream blush on your cheeks with your fingers to instantly add some warmth and vitality to your face.

Long-wear formula is the way to go

Investing in certain products formulated specifically for lasting use can reduce the need for multiple retouching. Whether you’re spending a day outdoors or an evening drinking with friends, you need a lip formula that doesn’t require multiple reapplications.

A great long-acting liquid lipstick or lip gloss is your best bet. Another trick is to switch to a lip liner, which defines the shape of your lips more precisely. Lipstick tends to be harder to control and stain more easily. If you have limited time for retouching, a well-lined lip just needs to quickly apply color to uneven patches.

Another long-lasting product you should consider is waterproof mascara. There’s nothing more annoying than grooming dirty mascara. The lightweight formula keeps your lashes lump-free, so you can reapply as needed without depressing your lashes too much.

Think layers

Perhaps the most important step in makeup is layering. From eyeshadow to highlighters, know how to layer to keep your makeup on point, even if it’s a little frayed. For example, for highlighters, you might want to use a different formula to really maximize the glow. Start with a luminous primer and finish with a powder highlight.

When in doubt, blot

If your skin type is oily, ink absorption is an essential step when applying makeup. Even before laying the foundation, consider using blotting paper to remove excess grease. It doesn’t hurt to carry a bag of blotting-paper in your wallet. Blotting is also a useful, time-tested step for some lipsticks. To really lock in the recipe, be sure to smear it on a napkin and then reapply.

Set it all with a spritz

In addition to the reliable translucent powder, a great way to lock in all your hard work is to use styling spray for a quick spray. It’s a way to instantly moisturize your skin so it doesn’t become chalky once it has absorbed the emollients in your makeup or once it starts to break down. Some sprays also have a matte finish that instantly lifts your skin tone.

A fresh makeup look that lasts

A little touch up in the middle of the day can prevent your makeup from slipping off or falling off. But remember, it should still be kept to a minimum — you don’t want to be too sensitive to your face all day! If you prepare your skin properly, invest in long makeup, and keep these tips handy, you’ll be able to maintain a fresh-looking face full of makeup no matter what happens during the day.