How to Avoid Cakey Makeup and Foundation Cracks

One of the main foundation myths is the idea that by using less makeup, you reduce the risk of cakey foundation. But, whether you prefer natural,‘no-makeup makeup’ or a full glam look, cakey makeup can occur on any skin type – with any level of coverage.

Knowing how to avoid cakey makeup so that it won’t crack or lay heavy on the skin comes down to your choice of formulas, your skin preparation and your application technique.

Below, we’ve curated our expert application tips, so you can enjoy a radiant, nourished base and all-day wear that won’t fade or cake.

Common cakey foundation mistakes

Even with the right makeup tools, an unhealthy base won’t support makeup formulas in the right way. When you have hydrated, balanced skin, you can wear makeup products without causing them to fade, transfer or crack.

Below are some of the common causes of cakey makeup:

• Dehydrated and uncleansed skin – when we neglect our skincare routine, excess oil and dead skin cells can build up on the skin surface.

• Improper layering of makeup products – using liquid over powder gives the complexion an unpleasant, mask-like effect.

• Using the wrong foundation formula for your skin type – a matte formula over dry skin can lead to foundation cracking, makeup clinging to matches, or crumbly texture.

• The amount of product used – overapplying can result in cakey makeup, as well as product transfer from dirty makeup tools.

How to stop makeup looking cakey: YSL’s 6 top tips

Foundation cracks, transfers or cakey textures can ruin any makeup look you’ve just spent time perfecting. This is why it’s important to find the right products for your skin type, make sure you follow the right skin prep, and master your application technique.

Holistic and supportive, the following six application tips will teach you how to avoid cakey makeup and achieve a smooth, luminous finish.

1. Prep and prime the skin

Skin impurities, a buildup of dead skin cells, or lack of moisture will make it near impossible for your foundation to blend in a luminous way. To achieve the ‘second skin’ effect, ensure the base you’re working with is properly prepped – and yes, that means skincare and primer.

At a minimum, your skin should be cleansed and moisturised, but you can also incorporate a gentle exfoliant to prevent foundation sitting on dead skin cells.

After cleansing with the Clean Reboot Mousse, nourish your skin with the Pure Shots Perfect Plumper Nutri-Cream. Apply your SPF, then wait a few minutes before priming your skin with our luminous-boosting Touche Éclat Blur Primer Gold. A primer is essential to avoid foundation cracks and give your skin a smoother texture for application.

2. Choose the right foundation for your skin type

Different skin types present different kinds of challenges when it comes to cakey makeup.

If you have dry skin, it can draw moisture out of your foundation, leading to cracks and flaky patches. If you have oily skin, foundation can slide and separate throughout the day as it mixes with your natural oils. In mature skin, makeup can settle into fine lines.

The modern generation of YSL foundations are formulated to support individual skin concerns, needs, and preferred coverage.

For oily skin types: opt for a mattifying formula that helps to stabilise oil levels and prevent shine throughout the day. The pigment-rich formula of All Hours Liquid Foundation helps to reduce the appearance of pores and provide up to 24 hours of full coverage.

For dry skin types: if you have dry skin, you’ve probably asked yourself, ‘why is my foundation cracking?’ If so, we recommend seeking out a foundation that nourishes the skin while giving you the coverage you desire. Touche Éclat Le Teint Liquid Foundation includes vitamin E alongside botanicals marigold bloom and mallow extract to provide 24-hour hydration and a breathable finish.

For mature skin types: firming foundations like Le Cushion Encre De Peau Foundation are made with buildable gel-like formulas that don’t sink into your skin: evening tone and minimising pores for an enhanced, radiant glow.

3. Master your foundation application: sponge or brush

Some people use their fingers to apply foundation, but this method can make it harder to blend the product – not to mention introduce dirt, oil and bacteria into the complexion. For best results, we recommend utilising a tool of your choice to ‘buff’ the product in.

Which tool is right for my skin type?

One of our top application tips for how to avoid cakey makeup dry skin is to use a damp makeup sponge which can help prevent flakiness. Conversely, our best advice for how to avoid cakey makeup oily skin is to reach for a makeup brush, as it will give you more control and precise blending.

How to apply foundation with a sponge:

Begin by saturating your sponge in water, then apply a pea-sized amount of product to the back of your hand. This will effectively act as your ‘paint’ palette and help prevent over-application and cakey foundation. With a dabbing motion, press the product into your skin, moving outwards from the centre. Use any pointy edges of the sponge for angled areas.

How to apply foundation with a brush:

You’ll want to look for a brush with soft, yet densely packed, bristles – a slightly angled brush head will also allow you to blend foundation without creating cakey foundation streaks.

You’ll want to look for a brush with soft, yet densely packed, bristles – a slightly angled brush head will also allow you to blend foundation without creating cakey foundation streaks.

4. Be strategic with your concealer

Overlaying your foundation with a thick layer of concealer can leave you with cakey makeup. Sometimes, we can be so self-conscious about our skin texture that we end up being too heavy-handed in our coverage. Instead, we recommend getting strategic about your concealer application.

The best way to apply concealer is after foundation, using a targeted approach: just a few small dots under the eyes and over any other imperfections. The All Hours Concealer provides full coverage in a creamy, luxurious texture. Simply use the tip of your ring finger to lightly tap the product into your skin without dragging or swiping.

5. Refine your products based on your skin concerns

While your base products – foundation, concealer, and even primer – are often the reason for your cakey makeup, the products you layer after may also be a factor. After all, your skin type shouldn’t just inform your choice of skincare and foundation: it should play a role throughout your full makeup routine.

Below are some must-have products for oily versus dry skin types.

For oily skin:
• All Hours Setting Powder – this holy grail setting powder controls shine and mattifies the complexion for up to 24 hours without detracting from your natural radiance.

• Me Blush Bold Blurring Bush – waterproof and sweat-proof, this silky powder blush from YSL offers a wash of intense colour while blurring the look of pores – perfect for those oilier skin types.

For dry skin:
• Secrets Setting Spray – powder can make dry skin patches crack and undo your luminous base. However, this glycerin- and hyaluronic acid-infused setting spray locks in your finished look, while keeping your complexion glowy and hydrated.

• Make Me Blush - Liquid Blush – we love a liquid blush for drier skin, and this one melts seamlessly into the skin without creasing.

6. Clean your makeup tools frequently

Once you incorporate makeup tools into your foundation application, it’s important to follow a habitual cleaning regime. Unclean brushes or sponges become clogged with product – and won’t be able to disperse foundation across skin properly.

In addition to cakey makeup results, unclean makeup tools can also introduce bacteria to your skin; this gives the complexion an overall ‘stressed’ appearance, and can impact the skin’s ability to repair itself. A good rule of thumb is to wash your tools every two weeks with warm soapy water, or when you notice visible makeup buildup.

We know that avoiding cakey makeup means prioritising your skincare, so explore our expert skin hydration tips next.