Home How To Stop Foundation From Oxidizing?
Foundationfairy.com is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn More

Here are some tips to stop your foundation from oxidizing:

  1. Use a Silicone Based Primer – If you have determined that the oil on your skin is what causes the oxidizing, using a silicone based primer before applying foundation can help to create a barrier between your skin and the foundation.
  2. Always Try It on Before You Buy – When selecting the right foundation, don’t be afraid to try it on at the store and let it sit for at least 3 hours. Ensure that your face is clean before applying the foundation. Keep an eye on the color of the foundation and only make the purchase decision if you don’t notice any color or texture changes.
  3. Better Oil Control – Which ever method that you are already using to control oil during the day, you need to increase the frequency of doing it. Less oil = less oxidzing.
  4. Go One Shade Lighter –  The method here is to select a foundation that is one shade lighter and hope that when it oxidizes, the color will match your skin perfectly.

There is nothing wrong with this method but there is a couple of things I don’t like about this. First of all, you will look like a lantern for the first couple of hours after applying the foundation. Unless you want to wake up early and wait for the color change before heading out, you basically have no control as to when the foundation will finish oxidizing. Second, it simply takes too much time and too much trial and error to find a foundation that will match your skin tone when it oxidizes.

There is no sure way to ensure that your foundation will not oxidize. As mentioned above, it all depends on your PH make up, the oils on your face and the ingredients used in the foundation. If it is the case where you simply cannot find a foundation that won’t oxidize on you, maybe consider using a BB cream instead.

Why Does My Foundation Oxidize?

There are a couple of reasons as to why your foundation oxidizes. Some of the ingredients in your foundation could be reacting with the air, the oils on your skin or ingredients from other makeup products that you happen to be wearing. The PH level of your skin also has an affect on your foundation.

How Long Does it take for Makeup to Oxidize?

Makeup can oxidize within 1 to 2 hours after application. Most makeup that is stored properly at room temperature and capped can last for up to 6 months but may oxidize after that.

What Happens When Foundation Oxidizes?

Depending on the type of foundation that you are using, you will know that your foundation has oxidized if you notice it:

– Turns hard (dried out)
– Becomes clumpy
– Becomes faded (loses color)
– Turns orange