
Oxidation happens when a reactive ingredient (yes, something in your foundation) is exposed to oxygen or another oxidizing agent. What Does Oxidize Mean in Makeup? First off, “oxidize,” when used in the makeup world, refers to a foundation darkening or turning orange after it’s applied to your face.
What is the meaning of oxidize?
1. to combine chemically with oxygen; convert into an oxide. 2. to cover with a coating of oxide or rust. 3. to increase the valence of (an atom or molecule) by removing electrons. Compare reduce (def. 9c). 4. to become oxidized. ox′i•diz`er, n.
What makes a foundation oxidize?
Ingredients can play a huge role, too. Lerma recommends steering clear of certain minerals in foundation formulas — like titanium dioxide, zinc oxide and iron oxide — because they can increase the likelihood of oxidation.
Why does my makeup turn my skin dark?
According to my research, this darkening of your makeup is due to one of three things: 1 The foundation ingredient iron oxide reacting to the oxygen in the air. 2 Foundation ingredients being exposed to the acid mantle of your skin. 3 Foundation i ngredients being exposed to oils on your face.
What is oxidation and why does it matter?
But now, scientists have broadened the scope of the definition (saying now it’s the process of losing an electron) because it turns out other things, like fluorine, can cause oxidation. The takeaway? Oxidation happens when a reactive ingredient (yes, something in your foundation) is exposed to oxygen or another oxidizing agent.

Why is my makeup oxidizing?
The pigments and oils in your makeup can react to air, your skin's acidity and natural oils, causing your foundation to turn darker.
How do I stop my makeup from oxidizing?
Use a Setting Spray or Powder Spritzing on a setting spray or powder, Zeichner says, will help minimize oxidation, too. "It helps absorb excess oil to lower the risk of reaction with the pigment in the makeup."
What is oxidation of makeup?
Oxidation means that the foundation reacts with external components, resulting in a change of shade to a darker one. People sometimes call this as foundation turning orange. It basically means your foundation will get darker on your skin ultimately making you look like an Oompa-Loompa!
What does oxidation mean in beauty?
Oxidation and what it does to the skin An example is when oxygen combines with iron to cause rust (or iron oxide). Another case comes when sebum on the surface of the skin (a combination of keratin and oil) clogs pores and is exposed to the air. The result is a blackhead[2].
How long does it take foundation to oxidize?
You may have heard someone use the term “oxidized foundation” to describe a foundation that changes color during wear, but true oxidation actually doesn't occur that quickly. However, oxidation can occur in the bottle over the long term (about 6 months to a year after opening).
How do you know if your foundation oxidizes?
A: Nisha, the problem you're describing is a chemical reaction known as "oxidation." Just like apples and other fruit will turn brown when exposed to the oxygen in the air, foundation can turn a shade or two darker (or more orange) on your skin over the course of the day.
Does Maybelline foundation oxidize?
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation is a lightweight foundation that blends really well and has an abundance of shades for fair to dusky skin tones. The finish is satin and looks extremely natural although it has a tendency to oxidize.
Does CC cream oxidize makeup?
It's definitely buildable, too, so if you wanted more coverage, you could definitely achieve it. It also doesn't oxidize dramatically either, though I did notice that it got a touch darker when dry—but, if anything, that actually worked better for my skin tone in the end.
Does Dior Backstage foundation oxidize?
I've always found that Dior foundations oxidise on me and so I usually go for at least 1 shade lighter.
What happens when skincare oxidizes?
Research has shown that skin oxidation is a massive contributor to photo-aging. As we get older, our skin is more and more exposed to the elements + UV irradiation causing our skin to lose elasticity, increasing the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
What skincare products oxidize?
Oxidation in SkincareCreams in Jars can oxidize. ... If the ingredients are fragile, like retinol, green tea, vitamin c and the 7 polyunsaturated oils, a cream is likely to oxidize quickly.More items...•
Does Fenty Beauty foundation oxidize?
It doesn't oxidise as such but as it dries it definitely goes a shade darker.
Why makeup turns dark after some time?
An acidic pH level on your skin can trigger oxidation process which can make your foundation look darker during the day. You can use diluted ACV as a toner on your face which will help your skin to find the ideal balance between dryness and oiliness.
Why does all foundation look orange on me?
The oxidation process is caused by your foundation getting exposed to air. As a result, it causes your foundation to darken to an orange hue. This can happen post-application or while the formula is in the bottle. Your foundation can also oxidize because of your skin texture.
How do I stop CC cream from oxidizing?
Blotting your face when it feels to oily throughout the day prevents the foundation from oxidising. Setting your foundation with some translucent powder helps makeup last longer and absorbs excess oil from your skin. This keeps the foundation from turning darker.
Why do I look dark after applying makeup?
Your face looks dark when your skin gets oxidised after makeup. Always apply primer on your face before using foundation. Using a silicone-based primer acts as a barrier between your skin's natural oils and oils in foundation.
Why does my foundation turn orange?
But, if you’ve mastered color matching and still find that your foundation is turning darker or picking up an orange hue post-application, chances are oxidation is to blame. “When an element is exposed to oxygen it can alter its appearance,” says Lerma. “This is what occurs between the oils on your skin and the pigments of your foundation. Much like an avocado turns brown after being exposed to oxygen, this can — and does — happen to foundations throughout the day.”
What powder brush to use for oily skin?
If you have naturally oily skin, keep products on hand to touch-up your makeup throughout the day. Lerma likes to use the Moda Powder Brush to swipe on translucent powder. Our newest go-to is the Urban Decay All Nighter Softening Loose Setting Powder. If you want a quick fix, throw oil-blotting sheets in your bag. “They’re fast, effective and a travel-friendly way to absorb excess oil,” says Lerma.
Who is the makeup artist for MODA Brush?
Ahead, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss and MODA Brush executive makeup artist Dominique Lerma weigh in on the orange foundation phenomenon — and explain how to stop it from happening.
Is oxidation a mishap?
Oxidation may be a makeup mishap, but prevention starts with your skincare. “Having a good skincare routine is so important and makeup is just the cherry on top,” says Dr. Idriss. She says that a clean face is high priority if you want your makeup to set perfectly.
What does oxidation mean?
oxidise. vb. 1. (Chemistry) to undergo or cause to undergo a chemical reaction with oxygen, as in formation of an oxide. 2. (Chemistry) to form or cause to form a layer of metal oxide, as in rusting. 3. (Chemistry) to lose or cause to lose hydrogen atoms. 4.
What does "ox" mean?
v. ox·i·dized, ox·i·diz·ing, ox·i·diz·es. v.tr. 1. To combine with oxygen; make into an oxide. 2. To increase the positive charge or valence of (an element) by removing electrons. 3. To coat with oxide. v.intr.
How to prevent oxidation of makeup?
Your best bet for avoiding oxidation is to select a foundation that is stabilized with antioxidants and comes in air- and light-restrictive packaging to protect the makeup’s stability. As an extra precaution, if the packaging is clear glass or plastic, store it in a dark place to protect the contents from hours of exposure to natural light.
What About Oxidized Foundation?
You may have heard someone use the term “oxidized foundation” to describe a foundation that changes color during wear, but true oxidation actually doesn’t occur that quickly.
Why does my foundation turn orange?
Why Foundation Turns Orange. The primary culprit for a foundation changing color is the interaction between the oils on your skin and the pigments in your foundation. For example, a foundation with subtle peach undertones can intensify into an orange-ish hue as the oil your skin produces saturates the foundation—something ...
What to do if you have oily skin?
If you have oily skin, prime it with a mattifying primer to create an absorbent barrier that inhibits the oil from interfering with your foundation. Another thing to consider: It may be that the oils in your moisturizer are mixing with your foundation and intensifying the color and undertones.
