Beauty Q&A: How Do I Wear Makeup With a Protective Face Mask?

Tip #2: Use Concealer or Lightweight Foundation

“It’s hot under a mask, especially in the summer, and hot melty makeup under a mask can really irritate your skin or cause breakouts,” says Patinkin. That’s why she suggests skipping heavy foundation and instead using a concealer where necessary. The Dermablend Cover Care Concealer is an amazing smudge-proof and longwear option that’ll cover dark spots and blemishes. If you want all-over coverage, it’s important to use a great gripping primer, like the Dermablend Insta-Grip Jelly Makeup Primer, as your base. Look for a foundation with salicylic acid, like the Maybelline New York Dream BB Pure, in order to help with maskne. 

Tip #3: Play Up Your Eyes 

Given that half your face is covered by a large, albeit protective, piece of fabric, it’s important to play up your eyes. “Definitely focus on the upper third of the face with pretty eyeshadow, fluffy lashes and well-tended brows,” says Patinkin. “Your eyes are really going to be the windows to your soul now, so you can use your makeup to convey expression and personality.” We’ve been leaning heavily on our glitter eyeshadow collection, bold palettes and great brow products. Some of our current go-tos are the Bodyography Glitter Pigments, Urban Decay Naked Ultraviolet Eyeshadow Pallette and the Maybelline New York Brow Extensions Fiber Pomade Crayon. 

Tip #4: Trade Your Lipstick for a Balm or Stain 

While we love lip glosses and lipsticks, they’re the most likely to transfer onto the fabric of your mask. Patinkin suggests swapping them out for a lip balm or a hydrating lip stain that won’t transfer, smudge or dry out your lips. We’ve been loving the Lancôme L’Absolu Mademoiselle Lip Balm and the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick. 

Tip #5: Use a Setting Spray or Apply Powder Strategically

Patinkin suggests setting everything with a setting spray, like the Maybelline New York FaceStudio Lasting Fix Setting Spray Spray, to help prevent transfer. “Spray some setting spray on a clean, damp sponge like my Jenny Patinkin Pure Luxury Non-Toxic Sponges, and gently tap into the skin to lift away any excess product and hold things in place before putting on your mask,” she says. “Keep any setting powder strictly to your forehead and under your eyes, because when you’re under a hot mask, the powder and makeup can start to look cakey and feel uncomfortable really quickly.” 

Tip #6: Throw Some Makeup Sponges in Your Bag 

Lines, smudging and lifting is bound to happen when you remove your mask. To freshen up mid-day, use a makeup sponge. “It can help to re-blend lines without having to add more product or set anything with powder. Just tap gently onto the skin,” says Patinkin.