Why does my foundation look so cakey?

Jan 5, 2013

Mozie P.

I've recently started using foundation to help cover my acne/scarring, but it doesn't look quite right. I use Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse and apply it with my hands. I thought setting it with powder would help it look more natural, but it just makes it look more cakey, or even powdery.
I do not use primer, but I do moisturize.
How can I get a natural glow with foundation?

Jan 5, 2013

Harriet M.

set it with a setting spray it'll eliminate the powdery fake look and make it look more like skin. i have one from ELF and Mac fix +

Jan 5, 2013

April C.

It's because the your foundation is matte and that tends to make ur face look cakey, you should only use a matte foundation of your prone to get really oily through out the day! And yea I find it really helps if u put on a moisturizer first, and let it dry.. It really gives you face a really dewy finish

Jan 5, 2013

Mozie P.

Thank you, ladies!

You're right, April. I found out after I bought it that it's better for oily skin. My skin is more so dry.

Jan 5, 2013

Emma T.

I recommend using a moisturizer always, a primer and a foundation more suited for your skin type. Hope this helps! (:

Jan 5, 2013

Bridget A.

Dont use a matte foundation :)

Jan 5, 2013

Mozie P.

Apparently the powder I use to set it is also matte. Argh! I bought the wrong products for my skin type.

I'm open to any foundation recommendations, that are suited for dry acne prone skin.

Jan 5, 2013

Inspired Artistry L.

what are you using to take care of your acne? you might be drying out your skin.

Jan 5, 2013

Kimberly S.

I have dry skin and I tend to use revlon color stay whipped foundation, cover girl natureluxe and I always spray my face after with elf setting spray, I find dewey looks much more flattering and more natural, yet your skin still looks perfected

Jan 5, 2013

Mozie P.

I've tried just about everything on my acne, but at the moment all I'm using is a neutrogena face wash. It is a little drying, but not as harsh as past treatments I've tried.

Jan 5, 2013

Mozie P.

Thanks for the recommendations, Kimberly. :)

Jan 5, 2013

Natalie T.

Use revlon colorstay whipped creme foundation. Make sure it's the whipped version in the jar, not the liquid. Apply with a damp beauty blender/sponge, (it gives a dewy finish with the damp sponge) and then set your t-zone with a translucent powder. It looks amazing. I do it everyday!

Jan 5, 2013

Stef R.

Mix it with moisturizer to make it less matte

Jan 5, 2013

Arielle K.

Foundations "cake" due to the lack of moisture in your skin or the shelf life of the formula. Moisturize twice daily, exfoliate with a gentle scrub 1-2 times a week, and try misting your face with evian facial spray to seal in moisture.

Jan 5, 2013

Mozie P.

I can't mix my current foundation with my moisturizer, it just doesn't work. I'm pretty sure it's because the foundation is so matte.

Thank you for the tips, everyone.

Jan 5, 2013

Camille A.

You should use Hello flawless by benefitz

Jan 5, 2013

Henry R.

Cleanse you face first before applying makeup, then moisturize and let it all sink into your face. Then I would invest in a good primer, a little goes a long way so it should last you. Use foundation only to even out skin tone, then a concealer to help with any blemishes or under eye circles. If you try to cover up everything with your foundation you're going to apply to much and it'll look cakey. You can also apply with a damp sponge if its still looking cakey. Make sure to exfoliate every few days , the foundation will cling to your dead skin.  

Jan 5, 2013

Henry R.

Use tea tree oil for your acne . I personally apply it before my moisturizer . 

Jan 6, 2013

Mozie P.

Thank you for the tips, Henry!

Jan 6, 2013

Krystal B.

I've tried the exact same one and had the same prob... I've so far have switched to m.a.c and so far so good

Jan 6, 2013

Kelsey B.

I've used a lot of different types foundation over the years in a quest to find good coverage without causing a lot of break outs after. Revlon color stay aqua has really done well for me.

Jan 6, 2013

Alyse M.

Use a setting spray, or mac fix+ or something, and that will help keep your skin from looking cakey. Also, make sure to apply powder properly. Look up gossmakeupartist on youtube and find watch his videos, he has a lot of concise, clear videos with makeup tips that are really beneficial. 

Jan 6, 2013

Kaitie G.

Find a good brush to use. Also make sure that it completely matches your skin tone and blend really well. Apply a powder that matches your face or a translucent one. Good luck (: 

Jan 6, 2013

Loren B.

That's a great idea to use a wet sponge. You're so beautiful though, just blend concealer where it's needed most and let your natural complexion come through. (I also have dry skin and foundation can look cakey). 

Jan 6, 2013

Lilia T.

I'd reccomend Loreal True Match luminous makeup.. It gives an amazing glow :)