How to Make Your Wedding Makeup Last Through the Big Day

Start With Skin Prep

“The key to a flawless, long-lasting base is skin prep,” says Hernandez. “I recommend exfoliating one to two days ahead of the wedding, as this will slough off dry, flaky patches and help smooth the skin's surface. The smoother your skin is, the better your foundation will look and wear throughout the day.”

Don’t try a new skincare product days before your wedding though. Stick to either your regular exfoliant, or gently rub a warm, wet washcloth in circular motions all over your face to loosen any dead skin.

Prime the Skin

On the big day, after you’ve applied your skincare, Hernandez recommends going in with a primer. “Primers truly make all the difference when trying to achieve long-lasting results,” says Hernandez. “They help create a gripping effect that enhances the longevity and coverage of makeup for flawless all-day wear.”

One of our favorites is the Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Hydrating Primer, which moisturizes the skin and imparts a subtle, lit-from-within glow.

Apply a Long-Wearing Base

“Another great tip is to assess your skin the day of and choose products according to your skincare needs,” says Hernandez. “If you’re oily, opt for lightweight, oil-free products, and if you’re dry to normal, opt for something richer. Maybelline has incredible long-wearing foundation options for all skin types, including the cult-favorite Maybelline New York Fit Me Foundation.” 

The foundation is available in both matte and dewy formulas. However, the dewy formula contains SPF, which could cause flashback in photos (the matte formula is SPF-free). To avoid this effect and still use a glowy foundation, try the Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation.

To ensure your foundation’s staying power, apply the liquid in light layers and only add more where you feel you need extra coverage. To set it, apply a light dusting of translucent powder, focusing on your T-zone.

Layer Creams and Powders

To make your blush and contour last longer, apply a small amount of a liquid or cream product to your cheeks, then layer a matching powder on top. This seals in the formula and adds more pigment.

Use Waterproof Eye Makeup

Don’t let smeared mascara be the star of your wedding photos. Opt for waterproof mascara and liner, like the Lancôme Monsieur Big Waterproof Mascara and the Lancôme Idôle Liner. Both formulas provide 24-hour wear and inky definition.

If you prefer a brown liner, try the Glamnetic Soo Future! Magnetic Liner Pen in Cocoa Dreams. It’s magnetic, so you can also use it to attach a strip of magnetic false eyelashes.

Seal the Deal with Setting Spray

Even though you usually use a setting spray as the final touch to your makeup, consider spraying it on between steps for extra longevity. Try applying it after foundation and before powder, then again once your makeup is complete.

The Urban Decay All Nighter Vitamin C Setting Spray gives makeup a transfer- and water-resistant finish, makes skin glow and extends the wear of your makeup by 16 hours.

Pack a Touch-Up Kit

A touch-up kit with concealer, lipstick and a powder compact or blotting papers will come in handy in case you need to freshen up for photos. Ask a friend or family member to keep the essentials stashed close by.