I have a very frustrating predicament. Every time I leave the house, I automatically go through my routine: I grab my keys, wallet, and cell phone and toss them all into my purse. Then I grab my lipstick and quickly apply it. Then, as I go to take off my mask (opens in new tab), which I always wear when I leave the house, I realize what I just did. After being quarantined for six months (...) ), I am still applying lipstick (opens in new tab). For one thing, no one can see me under the mask. Second, by the time I get back from my errands, that lipstick is smeared inside the mask and all over my face, along with the rest of my concealer, blush, and cheekbone highlight.

The easy solution is to not wear makeup. Please. I love my makeup routine, whether it's to look presentable for a zoom call or when I need a little pick-me-up. There are so many products I am constantly trying out that no makeup is no fun. Nor do I remove my makeup before leaving the house. So there's my solution: invest in makeup that I'm okay with being pressed onto my face for a few hours at a time. Since a little compromise is the name of the game, here are the best mask-proof makeup players on the market.

Lip products are probably the most indispensable makeup products during this mask-covered time of year. Not only do masks completely cover the lips (if worn correctly), but lip products are usually one of the most easily smudged makeup products. Sadly, there is no standard tube of lipstick that won't smudge on the face and stain the mask. So, as part one of learning to compromise, matte lipstick and lip stain are the heart and soul of long-lasting lip products.

If you are someone who can't stand the texture of matte lipstick, allow me to introduce you to some alternatives. With the great new standard of innovation, there are now brands that are creating matte lipsticks containing hydrating balms or oils. First, apply lipstick and let it dry. Then, put the balm on top of it, and you have long-lasting lips that are hydrated like a liquid lipstick. If you are okay with some smudging, a light-colored lip balm is another option. Yes, it will smudge, but since most lip balms are light in color, it is not very noticeable.

If you feel blotchy without concealer, foundation, blush, or highlighter, the smudging caused by these products on your mask can be even more irritating. A bit of bad news: If you're into super-glossy base makeup, it's almost impossible to achieve that look if you're looking for a makeup base that you can keep on while wearing a mask. So when choosing a base product, it's imperative to choose one that sinks into the skin, dries quickly, and is designed to last a long time. Many matte foundations and concealers have this effect and are less likely to smudge. Blush, highlighter, and other cheek blush should be layered. A cream blush under a powder will last longer than a blush on its own. However, to make these products truly mask-resistant, a little special attention needs to be paid to the primer, setting powder, and setting spray. These are discussed in more detail below. [Primer, setting powder, and setting spray. Primers not only even out the skin and prepare it for makeup, but some are designed to make foundation, concealer, and blush products last as long as possible. Powders also help base products last longer. If you already have a base product that you like and need more staying power, a good finishing powder can turn a dull, blotchy product into one that lasts all day.

Setting sprays serve two purposes, and when shopping for one it is important to pay attention to the claims and purpose of the setting spray before purchasing. In general, the most common purposes of setting sprays are to make makeup last longer and to rehydrate the skin after powdering. While it may seem counterintuitive to apply powder and then spray a setting spray over it, the two products actually work together for maximum staying power. Spray the setting spray a few minutes before applying the mask and allow it to dry completely. That way, you don't have to worry about your contours sticking to the mask instead of your face.

While it is fun to find new products that meet the needs of today, it is also unspeakably important that everyone continues to wear a face mask while COVID-19 is being held. Lipstick smears are a small price to pay for the health and safety of those around you. If there is someone close to you who says the reason they don't wear a mask is because their makeup smears, please use this link to let them know that they have no more excuses."