You know that makeup look that blends so seamlessly, giving no shine, yet incredibly flawless? Yes, that one.
I’m about to tell you how it’s done!
The dream of a flawless, shine-free matte makeup look is to look real, smooth, yet glamorous. Of course we don’t want it looking all cakey. So in this article, I’m going to show you how to do it right.
This will be a step-by-step guide to creating a long-lasting matte look that keeps your skin flawless without looking dreadfully dry.
That said, let’s get started.
Matte makeup tutorial for a long-lasting finish
Prep first
Like every other makeup look, a flawless matte finish requires a well-prepped canvas. This means getting your skin ready for all the goodness to be added.
So here’s how to do it.
First, wash your face with a gentle cleanser that’s specifically formulated for your skin type—a foaming cleanser may work well for oily skin, while a cream formula is best for dry skin. This will help remove any leftover makeup or residue to create a clean base for your makeup.
Next, is the moisturizer. Yes, even a matte look needs a moisturized base, and this is crucial even for oily skin.
So here’s the trick.
Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that delivers hydration without clogging pores. Also look out for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin – these are known for their moisture-binding properties.
Apply a thin layer of the moisturizer on your face and let it sink in completely before moving on. A damp face might actually help the moisturizer absorb better. After your moisturizer has been fully absorbed, it’s time to go in with a mattifying primer.
This type of primer creates a smooth, even surface for your makeup application, controls oil, and ensures your look stays put for hours. All you need is a thin layer, focusing on your T-zone, which are your forehead, nose, and chin. These are the areas where shine tends to peek through most.
Layer on your makeup products
Once the priming phase is over and your skin is prepped to perfection, it’s time to create that flawless matte look.
First, your foundation—you’ll need a matte finish. Liquid formulas offer buildable coverage and a more natural look, while powder foundations provide excellent oil control. Apply a small amount of the product to the back of your hand and use a damp makeup sponge or brush to buff it into your skin. Start with a thin layer and build up coverage where needed.
Next is the concealer. This is used to cover up blemishes, dark circles, or any areas needing extra coverage. You may need a matte concealer for this. To use, apply a tiny dot of the product directly to the targeted area, and use a damp makeup brush or your fingertip to blend it out, tapping gently to avoid disturbing the foundation underneath.
The last step in this phase is applying your powder. I can say this is where the mattifying magic happens! By using a translucent setting powder, you can lock in your foundation and concealer, further control shine, and achieve that desired matte finish, all without extra color or cake-up on your skin.
So, using a fluffy powder brush, gently dust the powder over your entire face. Be sure to focus on areas that are prone to oiliness. For the lips, I recommend you use a matte lipstick in order to maintain that full matte look.
Finish up
This is where you set the makeup to give it a flawless finish. The first thing you probably need here is a setting spray. A mattifying setting spray is the final touch to seal the deal as it helps prevent makeup from smudging or transferring.
It also adds an extra layer of shine control. To achieve that soft matte finish, simply spray it on the T-zone of your face.
Now here’s a tip.
If you’ll be out for a long time or exposed to any form of heat, make sure to have blotting paper with you. These papers can help absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup. To use it, gently press a blotting paper onto your shiny spots. But don’t rub!
Tips for a flawless and transfer-proof finish
Hydration is important
As I mentioned earlier, you cannot completely rule out hydration simply because you want a matte look. Besides using a moisturizer at the prepping stage, you’ll also need to maintain hydration throughout the day. For instance, spritzing a facial mist can give your skin a refreshing boost even without compromising the matte finish.
So there’s no harm in staying hydrated.
Less is More
It should go without saying that a matte finish does not require too much product. All you need is a tiny amount to go around, then you can build up coverage gradually to avoid a cakey look.
Remember, it’s easier to add more product than to take away!
Blend properly
Proper blending is key for a natural-looking matte finish. So take your time buffing out your foundation, concealer, and powder to avoid harsh lines or patches. Use circular motions with your brush or sponge to ensure seamless blending of the products.
Touch up when needed
Even with the best techniques, some shine might peek through as the day progresses, and that’s okay. Just make sure to always have your blotting papers and a travel-sized mattifying powder handy for quick daily touch-ups.
You may need a toner
While this step is optional, it can significantly improve the prepping phase for this makeup. Toners remove lingering impurities and balance your skin’s pH. However, like I said, they are not essential for everyone. If your skin feels tight after cleansing, skip the toner. But if you must use one, opt for an alcohol-free formula that won’t be overly drying.
Before you go…
Let me add that a mattifying look may take time to perfect. This is because proper blending is necessary, which may be quite difficult for some. However, by following these detailed steps, coupled with constant practice, you can create the long-lasting matte makeup look you desire.
