Tired of seeing your flawless makeup on your clothes instead of your face? Say goodbye to unsightly smudges and hello to lasting beauty.

Makeup transfer can ruin both your look and your favourite outfits, but it doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of your beauty routine. In this article, we will look at the right ways to keep your makeup where it belongs — on your skin. From preparation to application, learn how to improve your makeup’s staying power and maintain your style, spot-free.

Key Points:

• Comprehend the significance of skin preparation for enhancing makeup endurance.
• Explore the optimal makeup choices for extended durability.
• Master the appropriate techniques for applying makeup to prevent it from transferring.
• Receive actionable advice for keeping your makeup pristine all day without smudging.

Why Does Makeup Transfer?

Makeup transfer occurs for several reasons, typically related to the interaction between the makeup, your skin, and external factors:

• Skin Type: Oily or combination skin types can cause makeup to break down and slide off more easily due to the excess sebum. Conversely, very dry skin might not provide enough of a base for the makeup to adhere to, causing it to flake off.
• Makeup Formula: Not all makeup is made the same in terms of how long it will last. Some formulas, especially those that are oil-based or not specifically designed to be long-wearing, are more prone to smearing and transferring onto clothes and other surfaces.
• Application Technique: How makeup is applied can affect its longevity. Insufficient blending or layering, not allowing each layer to set properly before applying the next, or using too much product can all contribute to makeup transfer.
• Lack of Setting Products: Skipping setting powders or sprays can leave makeup more vulnerable to transfer. These products work to create a barrier that locks makeup in place.
• Physical Contact and Friction: Simply touching your face, changing clothes, talking on the phone, or any other activity that involves direct contact with the skin can cause makeup to transfer.
• Environmental Factors: Humidity, sweat, and temperature can all influence how well makeup adheres to your skin. High humidity or sweat can break down makeup, making it more likely to smear or transfer.

Fortunately, our recommended tips that follow take each of these factors into account and reinforce the fact that looking after your skin with the right cruelty-free, vegan products will not only help to care for your skincare naturally, but also help the planet too.

1. Wear Protective Clothing During Application

One of the simplest ways to stop makeup from transferring onto clothes is by wearing a robe or smock while getting ready. This advice may sound straightforward, but it’s effective. 

Protective clothing shields your outfit from any spills or smudges as you apply your makeup. If you plan to wear a garment with a close-fitting collar, like a turtleneck, put it on before your makeup to avoid smearing. 

Alternatively, tuck a napkin or a handkerchief around your neckline to guard against accidental transfers.

2. Choose High-Staying Power Foundations

The choice of foundation can significantly impact how much makeup transfers to your clothes. 

Opt for long-wear formulations that are designed to stay put. Cream and stick foundations usually offer better staying power compared to liquids. 

When selecting a foundation, look for products specifically marketed as transfer-resistant—these are less likely to leave marks on your clothing.

3. Skin Prep

Proper skin preparation is crucial to prevent makeup from transferring. If your skin is either too dry or excessively oily, you’re more likely to see smudges on your clothes. 

Start with a thorough cleanse, followed by exfoliation and adequate moisturisation to create the perfect base for makeup application. 

Choosing the right primer can also make a significant difference—opt for one with minimal silicone to avoid making your skin too slippery, as this can cause the makeup to slide off more easily.

4. Set Your Makeup

Setting your makeup is a critical step in ensuring it stays on your face, not your clothes. Use a setting powder or a makeup setting spray to lock everything in place. 

Sprays are particularly useful as they provide a light, even layer that doesn’t disturb the makeup underneath. Try the Mehron Barrier Setting Spray for a long-lasting, smudge-free finish.

5. Minimise Touching Your Face

Throughout the day, avoid touching your face. Whilst it is severely tempting to remove an itch or small hair, this simple action can significantly reduce the risk of transferring makeup to your clothes. 

Touching your face not only smears your makeup but also transfers oils and dirt from your hands, which can lead to breakouts. 

Training yourself to keep your hands away from your face will help your makeup stay intact longer and also benefit your skin health in general.

5 Magic Tips to Ensure Your Makeup Stays Put

Embracing techniques to stop makeup from transferring can transform your daily beauty routine and extend the pristine look of your makeup and clothes. 

Here are some essential tips tailored to maintaining your style without the worry of smudges.

Tip 1: Start with a Clean, Hydrated Base

To prevent makeup transfer, begin with a clean and hydrated face. This foundation ensures that your makeup adheres better and stays intact longer. 

Cleanse and moisturise your skin thoroughly to achieve a flawless canvas. This step is crucial in how to stop makeup from transferring.

Tip 2: Use a High-Quality Primer

A good primer sets the stage for your makeup. It smooths the skin’s texture and ensures that your makeup application stays fresh and in place throughout the day. 

Opt for a primer that suits your skin type, focusing on formulas that promise longevity and resist smudging to combat how to stop makeup transferring onto clothes.

Tip 3: Apply Makeup in the Right Order

Proper application sequence can greatly affect your makeup durability.

Start with foundation, followed by concealer, and then powder if needed. Each layer should be allowed to set before applying the next, minimising the chances of makeup transfer on clothes.

Tip 4: Build Up Gradually

When applying makeup, less is sometimes more. 

Start with small amounts and gradually build up to the desired coverage. This technique prevents the excessive application that can lead to smearing and transferring. 

Tip 5: Lock Everything in Place with a Setting Spray

Finally, a setting spray is needed to lock your makeup in place for hours. Spray from a distance to cover your entire face evenly. 

This final step not only keeps your makeup from fading but also significantly reduces the risk of it transferring to your clothing.

Stop Makeup Transfer On and Off-Stage With Treasure House of Makeup

At Treasure House of Makeup, we guarantee long-lasting wear from our wide range of cruelty-free, vegan products. Our extensive range of makeup products from renowned industry suppliers including Ben Nye and Mehron range from specially formulated setting sprays and primers that stand up to the rigours of bright lights and long hours, ensuring performers can concentrate on their art without the worry of makeup smears. 

In conclusion, learning how to stop makeup transfer is pivotal in your daily makeup routine towards maintaining a flawless look throughout the day. By wearing protective clothing during application, selecting long-lasting makeup products, preparing your skin properly, using setting sprays effectively, and minimising face-touching (yes, even if that includes scratching that itch), you can significantly reduce makeup smudges on your clothes.

Further reading

We have recently been expanding our makeup knowledge and tips on our blog. For everyday makeup routines, try these guides:

• Can you tan through makeup
• How to hide eye bags
• Makeup tips for redheads
• Primer or moisturiser first

FAQs

How do I maintain my makeup throughout the day to prevent transfer?

Carry blotting papers to absorb excess oil without disturbing your makeup. You can also pack a small makeup kit for touch-ups, including a mini setting spray and translucent powder for quick fixes to ensure your makeup remains intact and transfer-free.

What should I do about makeup transfer on clothing?

To minimise makeup stains on clothing, avoid tight collars or scarves that come into direct contact with your face. If you get makeup on clothes, lightly dab the spot with some makeup remover on a cotton swab or cloth before washing according to the fabric’s care instructions.

Sources

Mayo Clinic. (2023) Dry Skin. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dry-skin/symptoms-causes/syc-20353885 [accessed 09/01/2025]