Last Updated on April 11, 2022
If you’ve ever wondered why your foundation looks patchy, TikTok might have the answer.
The user @marthas__makeup has offered up a gem she learnt as she trained to become a professional make up artist and it could be the key to fixing your dodgy base.
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In the video, she says, “Ok, this is why your foundation looks like sh*t.” Harsh words, but hear her out.
“I’m a professional make up artist and during my courses I learnt a lot of sh*t I knew nothing about,” she continues.
“Yeah, sure – everyone knows you need to prep your skin, you need to use a primer, but the stuff I actually learnt is just next level.
“For example, use an exfoliator before you use make up.” So far, so old news – but there’s more.
“Step number 2 – and this is going to blow your f*cking mind,” she says. “Your foundation and your primer need to be in sync.
“So what that means is that you need to have a water-based foundation and a water-based primer, or an oil-based foundation and an oil-based primer. So if one is oil based and the other is water based, it’s going to look like sh*t instantly.
“We know what happens when we put oil in water, right? It just separates. So the exact same f*cking thing is happening on your face, it separates.”
Martha goes on to explain that you can tell whether your primer and foundation are oil or water-based by reading the ingredients list, which will tell you clearly.
@marthas__makeup This is why your foundation looks like sh*t #beautytok #makeuptutorial #makeuptips #fypシ #viralvideo ♬ Don't You (Forget About Me) – Simple Minds
The video has over 1million likes, but you might be wondering what you’re meant to do if you have a silicone-based foundation.
Panic over, because Martha uploaded another video to explain that the same premise stands. You’ll need to use a silicone-based primer before your silicone-based foundation. Phew!
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Shop primers
Radiance Primer, £30, NARS – buy now
This water-based primer also protects your face from the sun. Win win!
High-Adherence Silicone Primer, £5.20, The Ordinary – buy now
Does what it says on the tin. For that price, you can’t go wrong.
Hydro Grip Primer, £17, Milk Makeup – buy now
This primer contains plant-derived oils, aloe water, cherry blossom, hyaluronic acid, and B vitamins.
Shop foundations
Luminous Silk Foundation 30ml, £44.50, Armani – buy now
This product is water-based, in case you were wondering – and it’s one of the best foundations on the market.
Serum Foundation, £6.40, The Ordinary – buy now
