Makeup Under a Face Mask? Here's How to Make it Last

Do you wear makeup under your mask? I do, sometimes. Other times it feels like a lot of work and all for what.

But if you’re the kind who would still step out with a full face of makeup, even with a mask on, because you’re headed some place where you can take the covering off later on, or if you’re just curious how to keep the makeup intact underneath, I have a few tips for you.

Two products that will make the biggest difference – a transfer-proof foundation and a transfer-proof lipstick

Common sense says you need transfer-proof makeup under any kind of covering that sits close to or on top of your skin.

So, the two main products that you’ll need to achieve this would be a transfer-proof (and sweat-proof and oil—resistant) foundation and a long-lasting transfer-proof lipstick.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place foundation is the only one I know of that can really live up to expectations in this regard. I, however, never use this foundation on its own. I like it for its cement-like resistance so I mix a few drops of it into any other foundation I may feel like using. Under a mask, however, you might need more (rather than less) of this foundation.I know it’s an expensive product, but a little goes a long way. This is one high-end product that I highly recommend, and there are now minis available on Nykaa.

Another important product you need under the mask is a transfer-proof lipstick. No lipstick is entirely transfer-proof, but you can get long-lasting wear out of several liquid matte formulas in the market.

Some of the best options in this regard in the Indian market:

The entire range of L’oreal Paris Rouge Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick (These are not just gorgeous colours but they also stay on and on. These are somewhat transfer-proof, not entirely, but should be able to stay on for a few hours under a mask, provided the mask isn’t too close to the lips.)
Maybelline’s Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick
Retro matte lipsticks by M.A.C (in my experience, these really do stay on for long). You can try out the minis first.

Remember, however, not all long-lasting lipsticks are mask-proof. And liquid matte lipsticks tend to do better than other formulas in this regard.

A few more tips to help your makeup stay for long under a mask:

Prep your skin. (A lot of tips that help makeup stay in place in high heat and humidity also apply here.)
Use a strong primer to hold the makeup in place.
If you must contour and conceal, do it underneath the transfer-proof foundation so that a mask doesn’t dislodge any product, not easily, in any case.
Play up your eyes.
Choose largely matte products as far as base makeup is concerned.
I’d avoid the use of compact powder on top of the makeup before putting on a mask. (You may do so later if you’re headed some place you can take the mask off.) A setting spray, on the other hand, might help keep the makeup in place.
Moisturize your lips adequately before applying a liquid matte formula (as it can be drying). Check out this post on how to create a long lasting base for your lipstick.
Wait until the lipstick is dry and settled in before you put on your mask.
Masks made of softer fabric fare better with regards to makeup than those of coarse or textured material.
Despite your best efforts, be ready for touch ups.
Throw the mask in the washer after any outing with makeup.

Stay safe! 😷