Why Blotting Papers Are a Must for Your Makeup Bag

Has your perfectly applied makeup look ever fallen victim to unwanted shine and sweat? We know the feeling. Fortunately, this is where blotting papers come in. These handy sheets of paper are somewhat of a holy grail when it comes to keeping your makeup intact, which is why we consider them a must for every makeup bag. If oil blotting sheets are new to you, we’re sure you’ll be interested in adding them to your list of staples. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about oil blotting sheets, from what they are to how to use them.

WHAT ARE BLOTTING PAPERS?

Blotting sheets and papers are exactly what they sound like—small sheets of paper meant for blotting. More specifically, these sheets are made with extra-absorbent material meant to remove oil and sweat without taking your makeup off. This means you can easily blot away oil without the fear of losing coverage in the process!

WHO SHOULD USE BLOTTING PAPERS?

Wondering who should use blotting papers? Everyone! Seriously—we’re huge advocates that everyone can benefit from having blotting sheets on hand. Whether you’re working up a sweat at the gym or on the dance floor at the club, blotting papers will come in handy to get rid of excess shine and grease. If we had to name one group that can benefit most using blotting papers, it would have to be those with oily skin. Since your skin tends to get greasy quicker than others, oil blotting sheets will be your best friend to keep your makeup looking its best throughout the day (and night).

HOW TO USE BLOTTING PAPERS

Now that you know more about blotting papers and who should use them, you’re probably wondering how to use them! It’s actually quite simple, but let’s break it down.

STEP #1: GRAB YOUR BLOTTING PAPER

Reach in your purse and remove one blotting sheet from its package.

STEP #2: BLOT AWAY

Gently press the blotting sheet to oily areas, leave for a few seconds, then lift! Continue to do this wherever you see shine or oil that needs mattifying. That’s it—go show off your flawless makeup!

4 OTHER WAYS TO KEEP YOUR MAKEUP OIL-FREE

Of course, blotting papers aren’t the only way to keep your makeup shine and oil-free. Here are three other makeup tips you can put to use to avoid an oily-looking complexion.

TIP #1: USE A MATTIFYING PRIMER

The first step of any makeup look is key for keeping your makeup oil-free. We’re talking about using a mattifying makeup primer! The L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Makeup Lock Primer smoothes skin for a better makeup application, blurs imperfections, and keeps oil at bay for a matte finish that lasts all day. Smooth it over your face after moisturizing, prior to applying foundation.

TIP #2: AND A MATTE FINISH FOUNDATION

Speaking of foundation, using a matte finish foundation will help combat oily skin. Apply the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation using the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Blend Artist Foundation Blender for a seamless, shine-free complexion.

TIP #3: SET YOUR MAKEUP

Just as the first step of your routine is important when keeping oil at bay, so is the last. Setting your makeup look is one of the best ways to keep your makeup lasting all day and night sans oil. You can either use a setting spray, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray & Set Makeup Extender Setting Spray, to do so or opt for a translucent setting powder, like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Loose Setting Face Powder. To set with a face powder, simply dust it all over your face with a fluffy brush to control shine all day. As for the spray, a few quick spritzes and your look is locked in.

Next up: Let’s stay on the topic of long-lasting makeup. Head over to our articles, How to Make Foundation Last All Day and How to Fill in Your Brows—And Make Them Last, for a few pointers.