Everyone has a little bit of skin texture, whether it’s wrinkles, acne scars, large pores or sun damage. Contrary to what you’re seeing on social media, makeup can’t totally make it disappear. It shouldn’t have to disappear either—it’s just what regular skin looks like. But if you want to apply makeup that doesn’t accentuate it or look patchy and cakey around the edges, these tips from celebrity makeup artist Aafreen Petiwala will help.
The first step is to prep
If you have oily or combination skin, it is more likely that you’re contending with some skin texture. Using a mattifying, blurring toner is a good first step. “I personally love using the Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3; I pour some on a cotton pad and generously apply the product all over the face,” begins the makeup artist, “and wait for a few seconds before I move on to the next step which is using a gel- or water-based moisturiser (since a thicker cream could induce breakouts).” Petiwala recommends using a silicone-based primer such as the Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Face Primer or the Smashbox The Original Photo Finish Smooth & Blur Foundation Primer with Vitamin A & E to control sebum production in the T-zone area and minimise the visible appearance of pores and texture. As an extra layer of precaution, she uses a mattifying fixing spray to lock the prep in.
Zero shades of grey
Petiwala warns against picking up the wrong foundation and concealer shade since “it can give the skin a very cakey, layered and grey finish, especially pigmented areas such as the area around the mouth.” To pick the right foundation shade for yourself, visit a store to identify the best match for yourself. And don’t swatch the product on your wrist—glide the foundation on your jawline to see if it seamlessly melts in. As far as concealers are concerned, pick a shade that either matches your skin tone or is a tad bit darker to conceal, as well as a lighter shade to brighten the under eyes.
It’s all in the technique
To make sure that the foundation applies smoothly on the skin and does not emphasise any texture or unevenness, Petiwala recommends relying on a stippling brush to move the foundation across the face. “Start by using a stippling brush to push the product in and pay more attention to areas with open pores,” she says. “To make the best of this technique, pick up a foundation that is liquid in texture and promises high coverage.”
Choose the right formulation
For those with oily, uneven skin, Petiwala is in favour of powder-based products (like blush and contour) since they have a matte finish that avoids the accentuation of texture, blemishes and unevenness. “Cream-based products will not only emphasise any texture on the skin but also make the skin look oilier than it is, which is why it’s best to stick to powder-based matte blushes and contour,” suggests the makeup artist. If your skin is super dry however, a cream might work better because it won’t cling to any dry or flaky bits.
Look for the right finish
Just like formulation matters, so does finish. While super-shimmery or glittery highlighters are very popular right now, they can accentuate pores, fine lines, and texture. Instead, go for highlighters with a matte or satin finish. These formulas provide a subtle glow without emphasizing skin's natural texture.
Cover Image: Instagram/@debasreee
