What can I use to stop my face looking like an oil slick by lunchtime?

[lizardqueenie]

Just started back at work 3 days a week & I've noticed by lunchtime or a bit later my face is quite shiny (t-zone). I use studio fix (powder compact foundation ) but nothing wise on top at the moment. On my non work days I don't seem to have this problem at all. What can I use to top up without looking cakey?

[QuinnFabray]

A good primer, underneath, will help. I swear by MAC spf 50 prep and prime. It really helps keep the oilies at bay. And I blot a couple of times a day with blotting sheets. Urban Decay/Skindivia de-slick spray, underneath not on top, is another good one.

[GenericDietCola]

Yes, you need primer. The Revlon one is good - think it's called Photoready.

[greenhill]

Use blotting sheets.

[valiumredhead]

Bare Minerals foundation.

[Frizzbonce]

I'm not sure if this would help you at work but Milk of Magnesia dabbed on a bit of cotton wool will de-shine immediately.

[HazleNutt]

Dr Hauschka Normalising Oil is the only thing that keeps my skin shine-free.
www.lookfantastic.com/dr.hauschka-normalising-day-oil-30ml/10543806.html

[squoosh]

Smashbox primers are amazing.

[lizardqueenie]

Thanks for the replies everyone.

Primer seems to be the consensus so I will have a look into the brands you have recommended, I think I may have used the MAC one in the past actually.

Blotting sheets too- good idea! I forgot about these. Does anyone remember the small book of them you used to be able to get in the body shop?!

thanks for the suggestion of Bare Minerals valium I keep hearing both positive and negative reviews. I guess i might have to try some to see what its like. I think as I have finally managed to get the colour of my foundation right (after literally years of looking for one for my yellow/ olive/ appears dark but is actually quite light skin) I am a bit nervous about trying a new one.

Frizzbonce that sounds like a good tip- do you put it on after cleansing?

Hazelnut that oil looks nice, do you use it with anything else? Hopefully with some Christmas money coming up I might be able to treat myself to a few of these things!

[HazleNutt]

Lizard no, just oil is sufficient for me. Hauschka also has trial kits, probably a good idea to get one of those instead of the full bottle.

[lizardqueenie]

squoosh just seen that you can buy a travel size version of some of there primers, a good way to try them. would you recommend the photo finish light?

[lizardqueenie]

Thanks Hazelnut

[AgathaHoHoHo]

I used to have that problem. Changed my foundation (because the one I used to use was discontinued) and it doesn't happen anymore. Maybe try a different foundation?

[Fuckitthatlldo]

I have this problem too sometimes. It seems to be much worse at certain times of the month. I use No7 oil control primer on my t-zone. You need to moisturise well before you put it on otherwise it won't go on smoothly, but it completely mattifies the skin and helps with shine during the day. I also have a little book of blotting sheets in every handbag. The kleenex ones are really good I think - inexpensive and easy to get hold of in Boots or the supermarket. You can use them even with full make-up on and they don't disturb anything if you just blot rather than rub.

[lizardqueenie]

Thanks agatha- what foundation do you use now?

Yes I'll look out for the blotting sheets fuckit- I didn't get a chance to nip to boots today but hopefully tomorrow!

[AgathaHoHoHo]

lizard I use Max Factor Lasting Performance. I no longer use 3 kilos of face powder each day

[ethelb]

I have had this problem and actually think it is partlly likely to be due to your skin care regime. Toning before moisturising and letting the moisuriser sink in for 20-30 mins before applying makeup really helps.

[Cybbo]

I've found wearing less make up works for me. Was a foundation and powder gal but now just Avon Skin perfector primer and concealer.

[Frizzbonce]

lizardqueenie I've dabbed it on after cleansing and over makeup. You only need a touch of it and it doesn't leave a cakey finish. I appreciate it's a bit difficult to pull out of your handbag though!

[TheCountessOlenska]

Another vote for primer!

I am currently using Tesco Barbara Daly Primer, then her Oil Free Foundation, then translucent powder over the top - this keeps my make up in place all day.

[Saltytomato]

MAC do a matte oil Blot powder that you can apply over your makeup and it is brilliant....

[Saltytomato]

MAC do a matte oil Blot powder that you can apply over your makeup and it is brilliant....