What is matte makeup?
Matte makeup is a type of makeup that has a flat, non-reflective finish. It does not contain any shimmer, glitter, or shine. Matte makeup can create a soft, velvety appearance that looks good in photos and in real life. Matte makeup can also help control excess oil and reduce the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles.
How to apply matte makeup?
To achieve a matte look for your entire face, you will need the following products:
- A matte primer: A primer is a base product that helps your makeup last longer and smooths out your skin texture. A matte primer can also help absorb oil and minimize shine throughout the day. Apply a thin layer of primer all over your face after moisturizing and before applying foundation. You can use a sponge, a brush, or your fingers to blend it in.
- A matte foundation: A foundation is a product that evens out your skin tone and covers any imperfections. A matte foundation can provide full coverage and a natural-looking finish. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and undertone. You can use a liquid, cream, or powder formula, depending on your preference and skin type. Apply the foundation with a sponge, a brush, or your fingers, starting from the center of your face and blending outward. Make sure to blend well along your jawline, hairline, and neck to avoid any harsh lines.
- A matte concealer: A concealer is a product that hides any blemishes, dark circles, or redness that your foundation did not cover. A matte concealer can also brighten up your under-eye area and highlight your features. Choose a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your foundation. Apply the concealer with a small brush or your fingers on the areas that need extra coverage or brightness. Blend it well with a sponge or your fingers.
- A matte setting powder: A setting powder is a product that sets your makeup and prevents it from smudging or fading. A matte setting powder can also mattify your skin and reduce any shine or oiliness. Choose a translucent or tinted powder that suits your skin tone. Apply the powder with a large fluffy brush or a powder puff all over your face, focusing on the t-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) where you tend to get oily. You can also use the powder to bake your under-eye area by applying a generous amount of powder with a damp sponge and letting it sit for a few minutes before dusting it off.
- A matte bronzer: A bronzer is a product that adds warmth and dimension to your face. A matte bronzer can also contour your face and create shadows that define your features. Choose a bronzer that is one or two shades darker than your skin tone and has a cool undertone. Apply the bronzer with an angled brush on the hollows of your cheeks, along your hairline, on the sides of your nose, and under your jawline. Blend it well with a fluffy brush or a sponge.
- A matte blush: A blush is a product that adds color and life to your cheeks. A matte blush can also complement your skin tone and enhance your natural flush. Choose a blush that matches your skin tone and undertone. You can use a pink, peach, coral, or berry shade, depending on your preference. Apply the blush with a fluffy brush on the apples of your cheeks and blend it upward toward your temples.
- A matte highlighter: A highlighter is a product that adds glow and radiance to your face. A matte highlighter can also accentuate your features and make them pop. Choose a highlighter that is one or two shades lighter than your skin tone and has a subtle sheen. Apply the highlighter with a small brush or your fingers on the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the cupid’s bow of your lip, and the inner corners of your eyes.
- A matte eyeshadow: An eyeshadow is
a product that adds color and depth to your eyes. A matte eyeshadow can also create various eye looks, from natural to dramatic. Choose an eyeshadow palette that has neutral shades that suit your eye color and skin tone. You can use browns, taupes, grays, blacks, or any other colors you like. Apply the eyeshadow with an eyeshadow brush or your fingers on your eyelids, crease, lower lash line, and brow bone. You can use one shade for an easy look or mix and match different shades for more dimension. Blend the eyeshadow well with a fluffy brush or your fingers to avoid any harsh lines or patches.
- A matte eyeliner: An eyeliner is a product that defines and enhances your eyes. A matte eyeliner can also create different effects, from subtle to dramatic. Choose an eyeliner that is black, brown, or any other color you like. You can use a pencil, a gel, a liquid, or a powder formula, depending on your preference and skill level. Apply the eyeliner with an eyeliner brush or the applicator that comes with the product on your upper lash line, lower lash line, waterline, or tightline. You can draw a thin line for a natural look or a thick line for a bold look. You can also wing out the eyeliner for a cat-eye look or smudge it for a smoky look.
- A Matte mascara:A mascara is a product that adds volume and length to your lashes. A matte mascara can also make your eyes look bigger and more awake. Choose a mascara that is black, brown, or any other color you like. You can use a waterproof or a regular formula, depending on your preference and needs. Apply the mascara with the wand that comes with the product on your upper and lower lashes. Wiggle the wand from the roots to the tips of your lashes to coat them evenly and avoid clumps. You can apply one coat for a natural look or multiple coats for a dramatic look.
- A matte lip product: A lip product is a product that adds color and moisture to your lips. A matte lip product can also make your lips look fuller and more defined. Choose a lip product that matches your skin tone and undertone. You can use a lipstick, a lip gloss, a lip stain, or a lip liner, depending on your preference and desired effect. Apply the lip product with the applicator that comes with the product or with a lip brush on your lips. You can apply it directly from the bullet or tube for an intense look or dab it with your fingers for a soft look. You can also line your lips with a lip liner before applying the lip product to define your lip shape and prevent feathering.
Tips and tricks for matte makeup
- To make your matte makeup last longer, you can use a setting spray after applying all your products. A setting spray can also help melt your makeup into your skin and make it look more natural.
- To make your matte makeup look more fresh and dewy, you can use a facial mist throughout the day. A facial mist can also help hydrate your skin and refresh your makeup.
- To make your matte makeup look more vibrant and colorful, you can use a primer or a concealer as a base for your eyeshadow and lip product. A primer or a concealer can also help intensify the pigmentation and prevent creasing or fading.
- To make your matte makeup look more flattering and balanced, you can use different finishes for different features. For example, you can use a matte foundation and powder for your skin, but use a shimmer highlighter and gloss for your cheeks and lips.
Matte makeup is a versatile and timeless trend that can suit anyone and any occasion. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a matte look that is flawless, natural, and beautiful.
Source:
(1) Matte Makeup | Sephora. https://www.sephora.com/buy/matte-makeup.
(2) The 10 Best Matte Foundations of 2023, Tested and Reviewed – Byrdie. https://www.byrdie.com/best-matte-foundations-4582771.
(3) How to Apply Matte Makeup (with Pictures) – wikiHow. https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Matte-Makeup.