Is There A Way To Prevent Your Foundation From Oxidizing?

Just imagine you've researched which foundation shade works best to realize that it oxidizes once you put it on. The oxidation makes your perfect shade turn a more orange and darker shade on your skin, making it look more like an accidental tan than 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 that are left out for a long time. Just like a slice of banana or apple can start to brown after such a short period of time, your foundation can turn darker or orange as the day progresses.

Although it can be frustrating to find that your shade turns different colors, there are ways you can prevent and fix your oxidizing foundation. Here are some simple steps to avoid throwing away a perfectly good foundation.

According to Joshua Zeichner, M.D., the best way to prevent your foundation from oxidizing is to make sure you 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 from all sides.

You also want to keep your face as clean as possible throughout the day. After applying primer, let it fully absorb and blot away any excess oil before continuing onto the foundation. When applying foundation, use a brush or sponge if you feel the foundation will oxidize. Since your fingers also contain oils, they can emphasize oxidization in the foundation. After applying your foundation, you again want to blot away any extra oil or shine on the face. Eliminating any extra oil throughout the day minimizes the risk of oxidizing. You can add another layer of protection with a setting powder that will help absorb these oils (via Makeup.com).

Even though there are steps to prevent oxidizing, there are still formulas that will simply not sit well with your skin oils, texture, and environment. One option is to choose water-based products over oil-based products, limiting the number of oils applied to the face. This can go from skincare products to the foundation you choose to wear. The key is to lower oils on the skin to lower the chance of oxidization. You can also opt for products rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants can help fight against the oxidization process (via 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.