Makeup Fixatives: What They Are and How to Use Them Correctly

It’s happened to more than one of us. We put on flawless makeup, but as soon as we leave the house, the high summer temperatures or the day’s activities end up ruining all our work. Has this ever happened to you? If so, it’s time to use makeup fixatives. Discover what they are and how to use them in this article.

Contrary to what many people think, this product isn’t only used in the entertainment industry. Due to its properties, it’s available in presentations that are within everyone’s reach. Thus, it’s no longer necessary to touch up your makeup so often.

What are makeup fixatives?

Makeup is often used to increase facial attractiveness or to camouflage marks that are considered imperfections. Although there are many products for this purpose, there’s one that has been attracting attention for its interesting properties: makeup fixative.

This is a product in the form of a spray or powder that acts like a hairspray, but for the skin. As its name suggests, it has the function of fixing your makeup in place for several hours the cosmetic products used to make up the skin.

Thus, neither sweat nor other environmental agents can ruin the makeup. In addition, given their varied composition, some provide extra hydration or prevent a shiny appearance. The result? More natural-looking skin.

What types of makeup fixatives are there?

As already mentioned, there are several presentations of makeup fixers. Among these, spray mists and powder mists stand out. Beyond this essential characteristic, they are classified according to their formula. Some are designed to regulate the temperature of the makeup, which prevents it from moving.

There are others whose properties help keep the face cooler or regulate excessive oil production. So, the recommendation is to research the existing makeup fixers on the market and, based on this, choose the one that best suits your needs.

Of course, it’s not too much to consult a dermatologist to get the go-ahead. Keep in mind that this is about the health of your skin, and this measure can avoid unfavorable reactions.

The benefits of makeup fixatives

Prolonging the durability of makeup is the main benefit of this product. However, beyond that, its application causes the following effects:

• It enhances the natural glow of the skin.
• It prevents cosmetics from caking or fading.
• This product diminishes the shiny appearance of oily skin.
• It lumps the surface of the skin and diminishes the appearance of enlarged pores.
• It increases hydration, especially in dry skin.

How to apply makeup fixative correctly

Applying a fixative mist is a simple matter. However, some professional makeup artists, such as Urban Decay, have developed their own criteria for the use of this product.

To see good results, the makeup artist recommends spraying the area from about 30 centimeters away, making sure to draw an X and then a T. This technique seeks to cover the entire face with the product.

Is it safe to use this product?

In general, applying makeup fixers is safe. However, it’s best to check their composition to avoid those that contain compounds that may be irritating. Those containing alcohol should be discarded.

As a study in the Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology points out, topical use of alcohol is associated with irritation and contact dermatitis. In particular, this substance causes a histamine reaction that triggers systemic skin inflammation, which can manifest as redness and burning.

However, it should not be ignored that prolonged use of aerosols is also linked to health side effects. A study in Toxicology Letters explains that the volatile compounds in such products can cause respiratory tract irritation and other respiratory tract problems.

However, it should be noted that most formulas have a chemical concentration that is safe and not harmful. The important thing is to use them in moderation and discontinue use if there are any signs of a reaction.

Makeup fixative: An excellent ally

The use of a fixative mist may be all you need to prolong the durability of the cosmetics you use in your routine. Right now, there are improved formulas that can suit all skin types. The best part? They offer other benefits, too.

Be sure to choose one according to your needs and avoid at all costs those that contain alcohol in their composition. If you notice an unfavorable reaction after using one, make sure to discontinue use.