Tell me if you can relate to this…
You’ve spent a small fortune over the years to find that elusive foundation shade that perfectly matches your skin tone. It was a bit more expensive than you usually like to spend on makeup, but you don’t care. This is IT.
You leave the store all excited about your new HG. Until a few hours later, when you accidentally catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror.
Your foundation has turned orange on you! How the heck did this happen?!
Why does foundation turn orange on your skin?
When foundation turns orange (or one or two shades darker than your skin tone), it means it has oxidized. Oxy… what?
In plain English, the oils on your skin (i.e. sebum) interact with the pigments in your foundation, intensifying their colour – to the point you can end up looking like an Oompa Loompa!
You’ve probably guessed it: oily-skinned women (and men) are more prone to experience the dreaded orange change in foundation. Makes sense: your skin produces more oil than normal, so the chances of something going wrong are higher.
But everyone can experience this. Don’t think you’re immune just because your skin is on the drier side.
Related: How To Take Care Of Oily Skin
What Ingredients Cause Foundation to Oxidize?
Here’s the thing: oxidation isn’t just about the oils on your skin. It’s also about what’s in your foundation. Foundations with a high concentration of iron oxides or certain types of oils are more likely to oxidize.
Ever noticed how some matte foundations tend to oxidize more? That’s because they often contain more pigment to achieve that full-coverage effect.
Quick tip: Check the ingredient list. If your current foundation contains iron oxides or has a high oil content, you might want to explore lighter, oil-free formulas.
Does Your Skincare Routine Play a Role?
Skincare is the unsung hero (or villain) in the oxidation drama. If your moisturizer is too rich or your sunscreen too greasy, they can mix with your foundation and speed up the oxidation process.
Here’s what you can do:
- Use a lightweight, mattifying moisturizer if you have oily skin.
- Opt for oil-free or gel-based sunscreens that won’t create an extra layer of grease for your foundation to fight with.
How Do You prevent foundation from turning orange on your skin?
First things first: there’s no one way of knowing if a foundation will oxidise on you until you try it.
Always ask for a sample first. If the brand doesn’t have any, you can always test the foundation in store and go for a walk, eat dinner, whatever. If, after a couple of hours, your foundation hasn’t changed colour, go back to the store and buy it.
But what if the foundation has oxidised?
If you really dig the formula, you can redo the test again with a lighter shade. Chances are that, once it has oxidised, it’ll be a better match for your skin tone.
Applying a makeup primer underneath foundation can also help. A primer creates a physical barrier on the skin, preventing your natural oils to interact with its pigments. Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer ($58.00, available at Cult Beauty, Feel Unique, Nordstrom, Sephora and SpaceNK) is a great option.
Sadly, this method doesn’t work for everyone, but it’s worth a try. Again, ask for a sample so you can experiment at home before splurging on the full size.
Related: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Review
Should You Set Your Foundation?
Yes! Setting your foundation with a translucent powder or a setting spray can work wonders. These products lock your foundation in place and reduce the amount of oil that comes into contact with it throughout the day.
Pro tip: Use a powder that doesn’t add extra pigment to avoid any unintentional colour changes.
What Are the Best Foundations That Don’t Oxidize?
While no foundation is entirely immune to oxidation, some formulas are better suited for avoiding it. Look for foundations with keywords like long-wearing, oil-free, and oxidation-resistant. Silicone-based foundations can also create a better barrier on your skin, reducing the likelihood of oxidation.
Popular options include:
- Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation (£39.50): Llong-wearing and oil-free. Available at Boots, Estee Lauder, Look Fantastic, and Sephora
- Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation (£34.00): Llightweight yet durable. Available at Boots and Sephora
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation (£8.99): Budget-friendly and non-comedogenic. Available at Boots, Look Fantastic, and Superdrug.
How To Fix Foundation That Has Already Oxidized
We’ve all been there: halfway through the day, you notice your face is suddenly a shade darker than your neck. Don’t panic—there are quick fixes!
- Blotting Papers: If excess oil is the culprit, blotting papers can help remove the extra shine and slow down the oxidation process.
- Setting Powder: Dust on a bit of translucent powder to tone down the orange tint. A powder with a slight yellow undertone can help neutralize the oxidized shade.
- Mixing Drops: Products like lightening drops or mixers can save the day. Mix a small amount with your foundation and reapply for a more balanced colour.
Final Thoughts: Can You Relate?
We’ve all had that moment of betrayal, catching our reflection and realizing the flawless face we left the house with has turned into an unexpected shade of orange. But now, you’re armed with the tips and tricks to beat oxidation before it beats you.
About Gio
Hi, I’m Gio. I’m a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is skin coach and writer on a mission to help you achieve your best skin day ever – every day. I bust skincare myths and debunk marketing jargon to help you figure out what’s worth the splurge and what’s best left on the shelf – using science, not hype. I also offer skincare consultations to help you create the best skincare routine for your unique needs.
