A Complete Guide to Baking with Makeup and Baking Powder

Baking is a term you would typically associate with cooking. However, in the makeup world, 'baking' refers to a unique makeup application technique. On the other hand, baking powder is an essential ingredient in the culinary world, used to help baked goods rise. This article delves into the fascinating world of both makeup and culinary baking, discussing everything from makeup baking techniques to homemade baking powder recipes.

Makeup Baking: An Overview

Baking, in the context of makeup, is a technique that is widely popular for creating a flawless, long-lasting matte finish. It involves setting your makeup, particularly your concealer, with a loose powder, allowing it to 'bake' on your skin for a specific period before dusting off the excess. This technique creates a crease-free, poreless, and perfectly matte look that lasts all day.

Baking: A Historical Perspective

While baking makeup might seem like a new trend, it has been around for years. The technique gained popularity within the drag community before being adopted by celebrity makeup artists and beauty YouTubers. It was initially developed by artists who used heavy grease and oil-based makeup, and it was a necessary technique to set makeup and prepare the canvas for other powder-based products like blush, sculpt powders, and bronzers.

Who is Baking Useful For?

Baking is a technique that is suitable for anyone of any skin type. However, it works best for those who prefer a full-face, "Go big or go home," glam effect. Individuals who want to lock in a full face of foundation for a long time, preventing it from transferring, sweating off, or settling into creases, will find this technique particularly beneficial.

Step-by-Step Guide to Makeup Baking

Below is a comprehensive guide on how to bake your makeup like a pro, using seven essential ingredients: eye cream, foundation, concealer, a makeup sponge, a fluffy makeup brush, setting powder, and setting spray.

Step 1: Apply Eye Cream

Before you start applying makeup, make sure the skin around your eyes is smooth and moisturized. This step is crucial because you will apply a lot of powder to that area during the baking process.

Step 2: Apply Foundation

The first layer of makeup that touches your skin is just as important as the last. A full-coverage base is essential to the baking process because it evens out your complexion.

Step 3: Apply Concealer

Concealer sets the stage for baking. Apply a thick layer of concealer in the under-eye area in the shape of an inverted triangle, and use a damp makeup sponge to blend it in.

Step 4: Apply Loose Powder

Baking involves applying a generous amount of loose powder on top of your makeup. Pour your powder into the powder lid so you can control how much you tap onto your sponge.

Step 5: Allow the Powder to Bake

Once you've applied the powder, allow it to sit and "bake" for about 5-10 minutes¹.

Step 6: Brush off Excess Powder

After you're fully cooked, it's time to remove the excess powder. Use a fluffy powder brush to dust off the baking powder and soften the edges of any other powder products applied.

Baking Powder: What's the Deal?

Now that you have a pretty good idea about baking in terms of makeup, let's switch gears and talk about baking powder in the culinary context. Baking powder is a dry chemical leavening agent, a mixture of a carbonate or bicarbonate and a weak acid.

Homemade Baking Powder Recipe

If you find yourself out of baking powder, don't worry! You can easily make your own at home. Here is a simple recipe for homemade baking powder:

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (Optional)

Directions

1. Mix cream of tartar and baking soda together in a small bowl.
2. To store, whisk cornstarch into the mixture and keep it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Whether you're baking your makeup for a flawless finish or whipping up a batch of homemade baking powder for your next culinary creation, the art of baking is versatile and exciting. From the beauty industry to the culinary world, baking proves to be a critical technique for creating lasting impressions.

Footnotes

1. IPSY 

2. Allrecipes