The Beauty Secret of Showering After Applying Makeup

Showering after applying makeup is a thing. Yes, you read that right. While taking a shower after applying a full face of makeup seems counter-productive, it’s a little known beauty secret that beauty gurus and celebrities swear by.

But why would anyone shower after applying makeup? Won’t the water and steam ruin your perfectly beat face? We all know humidity is a full face of makeup’s worst enemy.

Why Shower After Applying Makeup?

The idea of showering after applying makeup might seem counterintuitive, but there’s a method to this madness. This technique promises a dewy, set-in look that can be hard to achieve with traditional methods.

The steam from the shower acts like a natural setting spray, helping makeup blend seamlessly into the skin, creating a flawless, airbrushed finish.

Additionally, the steam opens up pores, allowing skincare products to penetrate deeper, which can be beneficial if you’re incorporating a hydrating serum or a lightweight moisturizer under your makeup.

Benefits of Showering After Applying Makeup

Dewy, Fresh Finish
The primary benefit of this routine is achieving that highly sought-after dewy look. The steam helps the makeup melt into your skin, giving it a natural glow that’s hard to replicate with other techniques. This can be particularly beneficial for those with dry skin, as the moisture from the steam adds an extra layer of hydration.

Better Makeup Setting
The steam from the shower can help set your makeup better than many setting sprays. The slight dampness allows powders and creams to settle into the skin more naturally, reducing the cakey look that can sometimes occur with heavy makeup application.

Enhanced Skincare Absorption
Applying makeup over your skincare products before showering means that the steam helps these products absorb better. Your skin is likely to benefit more from the active ingredients in your serums and moisturizers, leading to a healthier, more radiant complexion over time.

Reduced Flakiness
For those with dry or flaky skin, showering after applying makeup can help mitigate these issues. The steam helps to smooth out any dry patches, allowing your foundation to look more even and flawless.

Drawbacks of Showering After Applying Makeup

Potential for Makeup Meltdown
One of the most significant risks of this routine is the potential for your makeup to melt off in the shower. If not done carefully, you could end up with streaky foundation and smudged eyeliner, undoing all your hard work.

Increased Sensitivity
For those with sensitive skin, the combination of makeup and steam could potentially cause irritation. The heat and moisture might exacerbate any existing skin conditions, leading to redness or breakouts.

Time-Consuming
This technique can be time-consuming, adding an extra step to your routine. If you’re in a hurry, this might not be the most practical approach.

Celebrity Endorsements

Several celebrities and influencers have endorsed this unconventional beauty hack of showering after applying make up, swearing by it and bringing it into the mainstream.

Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian has been known to embrace unusual beauty hacks, and showering after applying makeup is one of them. She’s mentioned in interviews that the steam helps her makeup look flawless for photo shoots and events.

Huda Kattan
Beauty mogul Huda Kattan of Huda Beauty has also talked about this technique on her blog and social media. She suggests using a light mist setting spray before entering the shower to further lock in the makeup.

Patrick Ta
Celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta, who has worked with stars like Gigi Hadid and Ariana Grande, swears by this method. He often uses steam to set makeup for his clients, ensuring a long-lasting and radiant finish.

How To Shower Without Messing Up Your Makeup

Now that we’ve covered the benefits and drawbacks, let’s talk about how to shower without turning your makeup into a hot mess. Here are some expert tips to help you navigate this routine:

Use a Gentle, Warm Shower
Opt for a warm, not hot, shower to avoid excessive steam that could cause your makeup to melt. A gentle warm shower will provide the right amount of steam without overwhelming your makeup.

Protect Your Face
Consider using a shower shield or simply tilt your head back to keep direct water off your face. This allows you to enjoy the steam without risking water streaks.

Seal with Setting Spray
Before stepping into the shower, apply a generous amount of setting spray. This helps to lock in your makeup and create a barrier against the steam.

Focus on Skincare Prep
Ensure your skin is well-prepped before applying makeup. Use hydrating products that will work well with the steam, such as a lightweight moisturizer and a hydrating primer.

Use Waterproof Products
Opt for waterproof and long-lasting makeup products, especially for your mascara and eyeliner. This reduces the risk of smudging and running.

Blot, Don’t Rub
After your shower, if you need to dry your face, gently blot with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing as this can disturb your makeup.

Minimal Eye Makeup
If you’re worried about your eye makeup, consider keeping it minimal and focusing on a strong base. You can always add more eye makeup post-shower if needed.

Quick Refresh
If you notice any areas that need a touch-up post-shower, keep a beauty blender or makeup sponge on hand to blend out any imperfections.

Also Read:

• The Top 10 Laura Mercier Setting Powder Dupes: Budget Friendly
• Best Setting Spray for Oily Skin: Keep Away The Grease