This usually means your skincare products underneath are clashing. Always leave enough time for your serums and moisturisers to dry between layers. Applying hydrating serums to damp skin can also help. If foundation separation is your issue, try to use products with similar textures.
Uneven skin texture can come in many forms, from under-the-skin bumps, to large, visible pores, or fine lines and wrinkles, all of which can contribute to foundation not sitting smoothly on the skin.
Other reasons for cakey foundation include dry skin, not layering your makeup in the correct order, and not using the right skin care products. Skipping out on exfoliation is another factor that can cause cakiness. Always make sure you prep your skin by exfoliating and moisturizing to help makeup go on smoothly.
Cream and liquid foundations are more likely to give the polka dot pores effect. If none of these formulas are working for you, try to use powder instead of liquid foundations as they can look better on people with big pores. To get a natural look, mix your foundation and moisturizer.
Fine, small cracks in the exterior walls or on the steps are usually nothing to worry about. Exterior cracks that are large and have a zig-zag pattern may be a sign that there's something wrong with the foundation. Brick cracks or bricks that are protruding from the wall should be checked.
Over time, dead skin cells and impurities build up on your skin. If exfoliation isn't part of your regular skin care routine, this build-up can cause your foundation to apply unevenly and separate throughout the day.
Easily the most common cause of a cakey foundation is using too much powder to set your face. Whether you are using pressed or loose powder, be mindful of how much you apply.
Instead of using your fingers to even out your foundation, we strongly recommend that you use a soft makeup sponge or a foundation brush to get a smooth and natural finish. If you don't want your concealer to settle in the lines under your eyes due to sweat, you should avoid using a cakey concealer.
Color correctors are great for balancing your skin tone and creating an even base for shade matching. If you have multiple skin tones, color corrector can make finding the right foundation shade much easier. If you're looking to just wear concealer, it can also help to create a more even skin tone.
Blend The Foundation Lighter Than You
When in doubt, always pick a shade that is slightly lighter than your complexion rather than darker. This can prevent your complexion from looking darker than the rest of your body. It is the safest way to go when unsure about two shades that may look too light or too dark.
Apply your liquid foundation directly to your hand—this will help warm up the product. With your ring finger (which naturally uses the least amount of pressure), spread the product gently around your skin, starting in your T-zone and blending outwards.
If your makeup is too light, you will look ashy or as if you have a gray cast on your skin. If the formula is too dark, it can make your complexion look muddy. Look for the shade that disappears into your skin most is your right match.
If you need a little coverage in certain areas but don't want to wear foundation, try using a concealer. Use a medium to full coverage concealer and apply it on any blemishes and imperfections. Then, use a small brush, a beauty blender, or your fingers to blend it out.
The experts have spoken, and the answer is, foundation should be one or two shades lighter than your skin tone. This is because when you use bronzer or contour then the foundation should be able to blend and give the perfect look to your face.
Prep with primer.
As a cream product, primer evens out the skin texture, creating a smooth surface for your makeup. Using primer also prevents your makeup products from creating fine lines and creases—both signs of cakey makeup.
Applying foundation in thin layers can give you more coverage without making your skin look cakey. It also helps prevent any creasing of makeup throughout the day so that your face always looks fresh and natural. This technique will give your skin full coverage that lasts longer.
Use a makeup spray
Yes, makeup sprays not only help to set your foundation but also help to melt away the excess foundation that makes your makeup look cakey. Plus, they will also take care of the powdery residues to give you a much better and cleaner look.
“Textured or rough skin can cause patchy foundation as the product will settle in and emphasize any skin texture. It's best to gently exfoliate with a chemical exfoliant before the application to remove dead skin,” says Alex. A good rule of thumb is to use an exfoliant 2x a week.
Applying Primer Immediately After Moisturizer Or Serums
"You don't need to apply primer—or makeup—all over in the summer, especially when it's hot and humid," she explains. This also applies to your foundation, as adding this "immediately after your primer can lead to a patchy, blotchy finish.