In the world of cosmetics, there are so many options to choose from that it can be scary to pick the best one for you. You have 1000s of different foundations and concealers. Not to mention all the other products that you “should” have or at least that is what the marketers tell you.
Shopping for the right foundation can be difficult because there is just too much choice. Besides that, you also need to keep in mind whether you want a matte foundation or one with a dewy finish.
That brought me to today’s topic: what is matte finish makeup? You can’t know which makeup you want if you don’t know what matte finish makeup is and how it works.
So, if you are a little startled and don’t know where to begin, here’s the right place!
Good to remember is that there is no right or wrong. There are just preferences. Some people will know right away what they want and go after it. Others, like myself, first need to try a couple of makeup articles and see their finish to know which ones work the best for you.
But to not waste any more words, below you’ll find the answers to questions in regards to matte finish makeup.
what is matte finish makeup?
Matte finish makeup (like in foundations) is a foundation that reduces shine.
“Matte” means “to devoid of luster and shine.” So, it won’t create a dewy or glowing appearance. These matte-finish makeup products will reduce the shine and will therefore give you a “matte” finish.
You’ll find these products in powders, liquids, and creams and these products are in most cases oil-free. The fact that matte finish foundations are oil-free is helpful because this helps your foundation to set quickly and last throughout the day.
Who are matte finish products best for:
These matte finish foundations are best for people with oily skin, combination skin, or people where their face is prone to acne. This is because these matte foundations will last longer on your skin and help to minimize the appearance of pores and imperfections.
Who does not benefit from matte finish makeup?
People with dry and/or mature skin with wrinkles can better stay away from these kinds of products. This is because the matte finish foundations will cling to your problem areas and therefore accentuate them. Not something you want. The other thing is that if you don’t like full coverage foundations, these matte finish products can often feel too heavy for you.
Matte makeup foundations / My pick
I’ve tried many foundation products over the years (as you probably can imagine). At one point in my life, I think I started to look like a hoarder because I just had so much stuff! Now it is all a little bit more structured but I still like to buy things and start experimenting with them. After all this experimenting I have some preferences that you might like. Below you’ll find my picks for matte makeup foundation.
Best overall:
My all-time favorite is the DIOR Diorskin Forever Foundation SPF35. This foundation has been around for a long time and this is for a reason. This foundation works like magic for most people!
DIOR keeps making this product better and better and their new formula has many amazing additions that it makes it simple to label this one the “best overall”. It is an excellent matte makeup finish product for someone who looks for a matte product, that lasts throughout the day and has great coverage.
This product helps to minimize the appearance of your pores and has an Activ-Mat complex that will keep your skin matte and shine-free and it also has a combination of Wear Lock polymers that makes sure that you can wear your foundation all day long.
Best if you’re on a budget:
If you’re looking for a matte foundation that doesn’t break the bank, the NYX Professional Makeup Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation is something for you!
This is a matte foundation that is full coverage and isn’t going flat all day long. The foundation has a mineral-enriched formula that covers blemishes and uneven texture on your skin. This all without making your skin cakey or giving you a flat appearance! A great product if you ask me :).
Best shade range
Sometimes it can be difficult to find your shade. One is too light and the other is too dark. You can mix and match bot often this still isn’t the result you’re looking for. That’s why I find Uoma Beauty Say What?! Foundation is so great.
When it comes to finding your skin tone, there is no other matte foundation than this one. It has a whopping 51 shades you can choose from and six different unique formula categories. This way there is always something there for you. For each skin type and each skin color. It’s just great and I’ll leave it at that.
How does matte finish makeup work and what is it exactly?
Matte finish makeup (foundation in this case) is nothing more and nothing less than a cosmetic product to even skin tone and to reduce shine for natural & sleek texture.
There are all kinds of different formulas on the market, but what sets the matte finish products apart is the fact that their products are oil-free. Their oil-free property helps to settle in quickly onto your skin and lasts throughout the day.
As said earlier, this kind of product is best used by people who have oily skin or acne-prone skin. This is because a matte makeup foundation prevents the excess of oil on your skin.
Are there any downsides to using a matte makeup product like foundation?
As with each product, there are always some downsides and they include:
- It can be difficult to Remove.
- If not removed properly then it can cause allergies to your face.
- You have to use oil-based makeup remover otherwise it won’t degrade with normal water.
- Failed cleansing can give you coagulation and acne.
- Using it daily can give you acne.
What is matte foundation used for?
As you read through this article you already find some uses for matte makeup products, but I’ll gladly list them for you below!
1 – Eliminates shine
When you have oily skin you’ll notice that you often have a shiny head. A matte foundation formula can help you reduce this shine and instantly pull your makeup look together. This is because matte foundations will instantly absorb the excess oil.
2 – Photo’s look amazing
Another great thing about using matte finish makeup is the fact that your photos will look amazing. No more white cast over your makeup when you take photos.
3 – It stays put
Another great thing about using a matte finish foundation is the fact that when you apply it and the formula settles, there is no need for anything else and the product will stay put. They are made to dry down and stay in place until you wash them off at the end of the night.
4 – Buildable coverage
Looking natural while wearing makeup is (I think) the number one goal of everyone who uses makeup. With the right matte foundation, you can achieve buildable coverage without having cakey results.
5 – All skin types benefit from it
Another great thing about matte finish makeup products is the fact that it is suitable for all skin types. There’s always a formula that works no matter what skin type. I know that earlier I said that they are better for people with oily skin, that doesn’t mean that the rest of us can’t wear them.
Find the right formula and it will work wonders for you.
Is matte or dewy finish better?
Okay, I have to be honest here. The one isn’t better than the other. They just cater to different kinds of results. The main difference between a matte and a dewy foundation is the overall finish. Where matte finishes will give you less glow and are less reflective (hence the great pictures), dewy is very light-reflecting and often it will feel lighter and has a major glow factor.
Why would you want to use a dewy product?
Because a dewy product can create a radiant, youthful, and fresh finish. Another great thing about using a foundation with a dewy finish is the fact that you can easily use it on other parts of your body. You can use it on your chest and legs for example.
But, after all, it all depends on what you want to go after. Do you like the matte finishes that you see other women rocking? Or do you want to create a radiant, youthful, and fresh finish? It’s all up to you.
The best thing you can do is ask yourself what kind of look you want, what kind of skin type you have, find the best product for you and create the look you want!
Conclusion
I hope that by now the question “what is matte finish makeup?” is answered and you can go on and tell all your friends about your newfound knowledge!
If you’re looking to create a matte finish style for yourself, you now have enough information to go off to create it! If you want, you can send me a picture of your newly created look! It is always nice to see people experimenting with makeup!
Further reading material
If you liked this article, I might have something interesting for you. Below you’ll find a couple of articles that might pique your interest. Simply click on one (or more) of them and start reading.
How to Soften Makeup Brushes? (The Right Way)
Is It Ok to Use Expired Makeup Remover?
How much makeup should you wear?
