Makeup Tricks For A Long-Lasting Wedding Glow

Wedding days are long, and emotions run high, so it's no surprise that brides-to-be want their makeup to last from aisle to dance floor. Whether you're hiring a professional makeup artist or doing your own makeup, there are several steps you can take to ensure your wedding makeup doesn't budge. From skincare and priming to setting and touch-ups, here's how to make your wedding makeup last all day.

Skin prep: Cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturise

Skin prep is an essential step in achieving long-lasting wedding makeup. Here are some detailed tips to help you cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturise your skin effectively:

Cleanse:

Start by cleansing your skin thoroughly to create a clean slate for your makeup. Use a gentle face wash or oil cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin. This will ensure that your makeup goes on smoothly and stays put throughout the day. It is recommended to stick to skincare products you know and trust, rather than experimenting with new ones right before your wedding.

Exfoliate:

Exfoliation is key to creating a smooth canvas for your makeup. Aim to exfoliate one to two days before your wedding to get rid of any dry, flaky patches and create an even skin surface. You can use your regular exfoliant or a warm, wet washcloth to gently exfoliate your skin in circular motions. Avoid using a face mask too close to your wedding day, as it may cause unexpected breakouts or blemishes.

Moisturise:

After cleansing and exfoliating, it's important to moisturise your skin. Opt for a moisturiser that suits your skin type. For oily skin, go for an oil-free, water-based moisturiser to add hydration without excess grease. If you have drier skin, you can use a richer moisturiser. Don't forget to moisturise the delicate skin under your eyes to prevent any flakiness or dryness throughout the day.

By following these steps, you will create a flawless base for your wedding makeup, ensuring that it lasts from the aisle to the dance floor.

Primer: Use a mattifying or hydrating primer, and an eye primer

Using a primer is an essential step in making your wedding makeup last. It helps create a gripping effect that enhances the longevity and coverage of your makeup for flawless all-day wear.

For the face, you can use a mattifying or hydrating primer, depending on your skin type. If you have oily skin, a mattifying primer will help control shine and create a smooth base for your makeup. On the other hand, if you have dry skin, a hydrating primer will add moisture and create a dewy canvas for your foundation.

Additionally, it is crucial to use a separate eye primer to prevent eyeshadow creasing and enhance colour pigments. Eye primers create a smooth base for eyeshadow, allowing the colours to pop and ensuring that your eyeshadow lasts all day without fading or creasing.

When choosing a primer, opt for long-wearing and lightweight formulas that will provide a grip for your makeup without feeling heavy or greasy. You can also look for primers with added skincare benefits, such as hydration or SPF protection, to give your skin an extra boost.

Applying primer correctly is also important. Use your hands or a makeup sponge to apply a thin, even layer of primer to your face and eyelids. Allow it to set for a few moments before moving on to the next step in your makeup routine.

By using a combination of a mattifying or hydrating face primer and a separate eye primer, you can ensure that your wedding makeup looks flawless and lasts from the ceremony through to the final dance.

Long-wearing products: Opt for matte, transfer-resistant foundation, and waterproof eye makeup

When it comes to long-wear, matte is best. Opting for a matte, transfer-resistant foundation will ensure your makeup stays put through tears and dancing. If you're worried about shine, a matte finish will also help control oil throughout the day.

A transfer-resistant foundation will ensure your makeup stays only on your face and not on your dress or your new spouse! It will also mean that you can touch up your face without worrying about smudging or removing the product.

If you want to ensure your eye makeup stays in place, go for waterproof formulas. Waterproof mascara and eyeliner will withstand tears and the heat of the dance floor. If you're planning on wearing false eyelashes, you can also get magnetic lashes that will stay put without the risk of a strip lash coming loose.

For eyeshadow, a cream formula will give you more longevity than a powder. Cream eyeshadows can withstand heat, oil and perspiration. Stick shadows are a great option for this, and brands like Vieve, Bobbi Brown and IT Cosmetics offer a range of shades.

If you want to add some sparkle to your eyes, save it for your jewellery, tiara and dress. A matte finish on the lips will also ensure you don't have any unwanted shine in your photos.

Layering and setting: Use a translucent setting powder and setting spray

Layering and setting are essential steps in ensuring your wedding makeup lasts all day. Once you've applied your foundation, it's time to lock it in with a setting powder and setting spray.

For the setting powder, you'll want to use a translucent powder. This will help to set your foundation and concealer in place, especially in the oily areas of your T-zone. Take a larger powder brush and sweep a layer of the powder across your forehead, nose, and chin. Make sure your foundation is dry before applying the powder to avoid caking. You can also add a little extra powder to these areas, using a smaller brush or a beauty sponge to press it into the spots where oil is likely to strike first and create shine. This creates a long-wear effect for your base.

To further ensure your makeup's longevity, finish with a setting spray. This will help your makeup withstand heat, humidity, and sweat. Try the Urban Decay All Nighter Vitamin C Setting Spray, which gives makeup a transfer- and water-resistant finish, makes skin glow, and extends the wear of your makeup by 16 hours. You can also apply setting spray in between steps for extra longevity. For example, apply it after foundation and before powder, then again once your makeup is complete.

If you need to revive your makeup at any point during the day, a face mist is a great way to spritz the skin and perk up your makeup with a little hydration.

Touch-ups: Have a touch-up kit with essentials like blotting papers, powder, lipstick, and a mirror

Touch-up kits are essential for brides to ensure their makeup stays flawless throughout the day. Ask your maid of honour or a bridesmaid to be in charge of holding and keeping these essentials close by.

Blotting Papers

Blotting papers are a must-have in your touch-up kit. They help to absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup. This is especially important if you have oily skin or if you'll be spending time outdoors in warmer temperatures. By blotting away any shine, you'll maintain a fresh and radiant complexion.

Powder

A translucent setting powder is ideal for touch-ups. It will help to lock in your foundation and concealer, ensuring they stay in place. Focus on the T-zone and other areas prone to oiliness, such as the nose, chin, and forehead. Use a small brush or beauty sponge to press the powder into these spots for a long-wear effect.

Lipstick

Your lipstick has a tough job on your wedding day, with endless kisses, sips of drinks, and emotional moments. To ensure your lip colour lasts, start by lining your lips with a lip liner, then fill them in. Apply your chosen lipstick, blot with a tissue, and add a second layer. Keep your lipstick handy throughout the day for touch-ups, especially after eating or drinking.

Mirror

A pocket mirror is a handy tool to have in your touch-up kit. It will allow you to check your makeup throughout the day and make any necessary adjustments. It's also useful for your beauty buddy, who can use it to help with touch-ups and ensure your makeup stays flawless.

Additionally, you may want to include other items in your touch-up kit, such as a mini setting spray, concealer, or even a perfume sample of your wedding scent.

Frequently asked questions