Imagine that you have done some research to find out which shade of foundation works best for you, only to find out that the foundation oxidizes once you apply it on your skin. This oxidation leads to your perfect shade turning into a darker and more orange shade, making it look like you have an accidental tan instead of subtle coverage.
According to Sephora, oxidation happens when pigments and oils react to the air and other factors, changing the shade. This is the same concept behind the browning of fruits left out for a long time. Just like a slice of banana or apple can start to brown after such a short period, your foundation can turn darker or orange as the day progresses.
Prevent and fix oxidizing foundations with these simple steps to avoid wasting a perfectly good product.
How to prevent foundation oxidation
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According to Joshua Zeichner, M.D., the best way to prevent your foundation from oxidizing is to start your makeup routine with your face as clean as possible (via Byrdie). This includes making sure your skin is washed and toned thoroughly. Because oxidizing occurs due to the foundation’s reaction to oils, you want to remove as much excess oil and dirt from the skin before applying your foundation. Adding primer to your routine allows the foundation to absorb better into the skin and creates a base on your skin that evens out texture and color. Primers create an even, clean base where your foundation can look similar.
To keep your face looking fresh throughout the day, it’s essential to keep it clean and oil-free. After applying primer, wait for it to absorb fully and blot away any excess oil before moving on to the foundation. If you’re worried that the foundation might oxidize, use a brush or sponge instead of your fingers to apply it. Your fingers contain natural oils that can contribute to oxidization. Once you’ve applied your foundation, blot away any excess oil or shine on your face. This step will help minimize the risk of oxidization. For an extra layer of protection, you can apply a setting powder that will absorb any oils throughout the day.
Choosing products that won’t oxidize
Although there are ways to prevent oxidization, certain formulas may not suit your skin’s oils, texture, and environment. A good solution is to opt for water-based products instead of oil-based ones to reduce the amount of oils on your face. This applies to your skincare routine as well as the foundation you use. The key is to minimize the amount of oils on your skin to reduce the likelihood of oxidization. Another approach is to choose products that are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants can help fight against the oxidization process, as reported by Project Vanity.
If you find a foundation you love oxidizes over time, you can also go for a lighter shade. An easy swap, reaching for a lighter shade means having to apply foundation ahead of time (via the Foundation Fairy). You’ll want to put on the foundation early for the oxidization process to finish by the time you need to head out. While it might take trial and error to find the right time, it can be an easy solution to help you to keep using your favorite product. Make sure you are also applying to your neck since the oxidizing process will show a stark contrast between the face and neck if you don’t.
