How To Bake Your Makeup

Move over clown contouring, a new makeup technique has been spotted all over the internet which is set to give your skin the glow it really needs. Baking makeup is a popular technique primarily used in drag makeup which is all about letting the makeup sit on the skin, and really melt into the skin.

How does it work?

The best way to let your make ‘bake’ is to apply foundation as usual, then use a lighter concealer under the eyes. Let it sit on your face for 10-15 minutes until it begins to change texture and color as the makeup oxidizes. This way, your makeup will actually become more high-coverage and pigmented before blending it all out with a cosmetic sponge.

Who can bake their makeup?

Anyone! Celebrity fans such as Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner and Karreuche Tran love this look as it gives the skin a flawless sheen, rather than a cakey finish which can emphasize acne or open pores.

This makeup technique works on all skin types, just make sure to use a hydrating primer or serum if your skin is on the dry side. Don’t be too liberal with the concealer (less is more), and make sure to use a setting spray instead of a translucent powder which can cling to dry patches.

What do I need to bake my own makeup?

Make sure you’re using a foundation which matches your skin tone, then a lighter concealer which will give your under-eye area that subtle contrast. Stick to liquid concealers since they are easy to apply, and melt seamlessly into the skin. Don’t forget to set it all with a powder so the makeup doesn’t move around your face.

Can I let my foundation cook?

If you want a flawless finish, let your foundation ‘bake’ instead of your concealer. Use a formula which isn’t fast-drying (something nourishing is best for baking), and apply it over your t-zone, cheeks, forehead, chin and neck, then wait for it to settle. A damp cosmetic sponge is the best way to blend-out the foundation without over-drying the skin.

Would you bake your makeup?

Images via Heidi Hamoud, Arabia Style, Kim Kardashian