Mastering Pan Stick Makeup: A Step-By-Step Guide

Pan-stick makeup is a convenient, time-saving option for those who want to streamline their makeup routine. It is a moisturising and long-lasting makeup base that provides full coverage and can also be used as a concealer. The application is quick and easy, and it can be applied directly to the face without the need for brushes or sponges. To achieve a flawless and natural finish, it is important to start with a clean and smooth base. This can be achieved by cleansing, scrubbing, and toning the skin before applying the pan-stick in thin layers. The right pan-stick for your skin tone is crucial, and it should not be too drying. After application, the pan-stick can be blended using a wet sponge, and set with a light dusting of powder. This method will result in a long-lasting, natural finish that is perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.

Choosing the right panstick

Choosing the right pan-stick foundation can be tricky, but there are a few key things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you select the best product for your needs:

• Match your complexion: The shade of your skin can change due to sun exposure or skin conditions, so it's important to test potential foundations by swiping them across your cheek or jawline. The right foundation will blend seamlessly with your skin tone. If you can't find an exact match, try mixing two shades to create the perfect blend.
• Consider your skin tone: Your foundation should also complement the undertones of your skin, which can be warm (yellow), cool (blue or pink), or neutral. Look at the veins on your inner wrist to determine your undertone. Green veins indicate warm undertones, while purple or blue veins suggest cool undertones. If you can't tell, you likely have neutral undertones.
• Know your skin type: Stick foundations are typically best suited for oily or combination skin. To determine your skin type, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and observe how your skin feels after 15-20 minutes. If your face feels moist or oily, you have oily skin. If it feels tight or dry, you have dry skin, and if it feels soft and comfortable, you likely have normal skin. If your T-zone (forehead and nose) is oily while the rest of your face is normal, you have combination skin.
• Read reviews: Checking reviews can give you valuable insights into how a product performs in terms of coverage, ease of use, appearance, colour, value, and texture. Look for reviews that mention specific qualities you're seeking in a foundation.
• Consider the brand: Well-known brands like Max Factor have been around for a long time and are often a safe bet when choosing a foundation. Their Pan Stik Foundation, for example, offers full coverage with a creamy texture that glides on easily and is perfect for touch-ups.

Prepping your face

The first step to achieving a flawless finish with pan stick makeup is to ensure your face is thoroughly cleansed. Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser formulated for your skin type to remove any dirt, oil, or impurities. Remember to also wash your hands, as these will be touching your face during the application process.

Once your skin is clean, it's time to tone. Using a toner will help to seal your pores and provide hydration, which is crucial after cleansing. Choose a toner that suits your skin type and apply it all over your face and neck.

The next step is to moisturize your skin. If you have dry skin, go ahead and apply a lightweight moisturizer to your face and neck. However, if you have normal or oily skin, you may want to skip this step as the pan stick makeup already has a creamy consistency. Instead, you can opt for a non-drying cleanser to ensure your skin doesn't feel dry.

To create an even smoother base for your makeup, you can apply a primer. Primer is optional, but it can help to minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and make your makeup last longer. Choose a primer that suits your skin type and apply a thin layer all over your face.

Choosing the Right Pan Stick

When it comes to choosing a pan stick, avoid those that are too drying as they can be difficult to work with. Select a pan stick that matches your skin tone perfectly. You may need to test out a few different shades to find your ideal match.

Application Techniques

Now that your skin is prepped, it's time to apply the pan stick. Apply lines of the product directly to your face, focusing on the areas that need coverage. Avoid covering your entire face with the pan stick, as a little product goes a long way. Remember to rub the surface of the pan stick with a clean, wet cloth after each use to avoid contamination.

After applying the pan stick, dust some loose translucent powder on your face. The amount of powder you use will depend on your skin type. If you have very dry skin, a light dusting will suffice, while those with other skin types may need a more moderate amount.

Next, use a sprayer or your fingertips to spritz your face with water. This step will help to blend the pan stick seamlessly into your skin.

To blend the product, use a wet sponge and make sure to cover your entire face, including your ears and jawline. Check if you need additional coverage in certain areas, such as under your eyes, blemishes, or tan patches, and apply a little more product using your fingertips.

Final Touches

At this point, your pan stick makeup should look smooth and flawless. You can set your makeup with a light dusting of compact powder, especially if you want your makeup to last even longer.

And that's it! You're now ready to show off your beautiful, glowing skin. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. Enjoy your new pan stick makeup look!

Applying the panstick

The first step is to choose the right panstick for your skin tone. It is important to select a panstick that is not too drying, as these can be difficult to work with.

Before applying the panstick, ensure your face is clean and scrubbed, and use a toner to seal unclogged pores. If you have dry skin, you should apply moisturiser. For normal or oily skin, you may want to skip moisturiser and instead use a non-drying cleanser, or a completely oil-free moisturiser.

You can also apply a primer, but this is not essential.

Apply the panstick directly to your face in lines or streaks, rather than covering the whole face. You can use your fingertips to apply the product to your skin, as the heat from your fingers will warm up the foundation.

Next, dust some loose translucent powder on your face. The amount of powder will depend on your skin type. If you have very dry skin, use a small amount of powder, but if your skin is normal or oily, use a moderate amount.

Then, spray your face with water, or sprinkle water on your face using your fingertips.

Now, blend the product using a wet sponge, making sure to cover your whole face, including the ears and jawline.

Check if you need more coverage in certain areas, and apply a little more product using your fingertips.

The panstick makeup, powder, and water will combine to give a smooth, flawless finish.

You can also apply compact powder over the top, but this is not necessary.

Your makeup is now complete and should last for 7-8 hours.

Setting the makeup with powder

Setting your makeup with powder is an important step to ensure your makeup stays in place and looks fresh throughout the day. Here are some detailed tips on how to set your pan stick makeup with powder:

• Choose the right powder: Opt for a translucent powder or a powder that matches your skin tone. If you have oily skin, consider using a mattifying powder to control shine.
• Prep your skin: Before applying powder, ensure your skin is clean and moisturised. You can also apply a primer to create a smooth base and help your makeup last longer.
• Apply your pan stick foundation: Using your pan stick, swipe or dot the product across your forehead, nose, under your eyes, chin, and cheeks. Blend the foundation outwards using clean fingertips, a makeup sponge, or a brush.
• Set your foundation: Once you have blended your pan stick foundation, it's time to set it with powder. Dip a large, fluffy brush into the powder and tap off the excess. Gently sweep the brush across your face, focusing on the areas where you applied the pan stick foundation.
• Build coverage: If you need more coverage, you can add another layer of pan stick foundation and set it with powder again. This is especially helpful if you have blemishes or dark circles that need extra coverage.
• Finish your look: After setting your foundation, you can continue with the rest of your makeup routine. Apply blush, bronzer, and highlighter as desired. You can also set your concealer with powder if needed.

Remember to blend your pan stick foundation well and choose a powder that suits your skin type and tone. Setting your pan stick makeup with powder will help to enhance the longevity of your makeup and give you a flawless finish.

Blending the makeup

Blending is the key to achieving a natural-looking finish with pan stick makeup. Here is a step-by-step guide to blending your pan stick makeup like a pro:

Step 1: Prepare Your Skin

Before applying pan stick makeup, it is essential to start with a clean face. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. This will remove any dirt, oil, or impurities from your skin, ensuring a smooth base for your makeup application. Additionally, cleansing will help keep your pores clear and reduce the likelihood of blackheads. Don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly as well!

Step 2: Exfoliate and Tone

Exfoliating your skin before applying pan stick makeup is crucial to achieving an even and smooth finish. Use a gentle exfoliator to scrub your face and remove any dead skin cells. Follow this step by using a toner, which will help seal your pores and provide hydration to your skin.

Step 3: Moisturize (Optional)

If you have dry skin, it is recommended to apply a lightweight moisturizer after toning your skin. However, if you have normal or oily skin, you may want to skip this step as the pan stick's creamy formula can make your skin feel oily. Instead, you can opt for a non-drying cleanser to ensure your skin doesn't feel dry.

Step 4: Prime (Optional)

Using a primer is not mandatory, but it can help create a smoother base for your pan stick makeup. Primer can help minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles while making your makeup last longer. If you decide to use a primer, choose one suitable for your skin type.

Step 5: Choose the Right Pan Stick

Selecting a pan stick that matches your skin tone is essential. Avoid pan sticks that are too drying as they can be challenging to work with. Opt for a pan stick that blends seamlessly with your skin tone.

Step 6: Apply the Pan Stick

Apply lines of the pan stick directly to your face, focusing on areas that need coverage. Avoid covering your entire face with the product; instead, apply streaks of the product according to your desired level of coverage. Remember to rub the surface of the pan stick with a clean, wet cloth after each use to prevent contamination.

Step 7: Apply Loose Translucent Powder

Dust a moderate amount of loose translucent powder onto your face. If you have very dry skin, you can use a lighter amount of powder. The powder will help set your pan stick makeup and create a smooth base.

Step 8: Spray Your Face with Water

Use a sprayer to spritz water all over your face. If you don't have a sprayer, you can simply use your fingertips to sprinkle water onto your skin.

Step 9: Blend with a Wet Sponge

Now comes the crucial blending step! Use a wet sponge to blend the pan stick makeup all over your face, including your ears and jawline. Make sure to cover all areas for a seamless finish.

Step 10: Check for Coverage

Look into a mirror and assess if you need additional coverage in certain areas. If you have any blemishes, under-eye circles, or tan patches that need more attention, use your fingertips to apply a small amount of pan stick makeup to those areas and blend well.

Step 11: Final Touches

At this point, your pan stick makeup should look smooth and flawless. You can choose to set your makeup with a compact powder, but it is not necessary. Your pan stick makeup is now ready to wear and should last for 7-8 hours, giving you a long-lasting, flawless finish.

Frequently asked questions