Baking

Baking is a makeup technique in which a generous layer of loose powder is pressed onto specific areas of the face — usually under the eyes, along the jaw, around the nose and on the chin — and left to sit for several minutes before the excess is swept off. The idea, borrowed from drag and stage artistry, is that body heat helps the powder set the concealer and foundation beneath it.

The result is a matte, long-wearing finish that resists creasing and photographs cleanly under flash, which is why it became a staple of camera and performance makeup. A damp sponge presses the powder in; a large fluffy brush lifts away what remains.

It does not suit every face. On dry, mature or textured skin, baking can emphasise fine lines and flaking, and a heavy layer can look chalky in daylight or cause white flashback in photos. Moisturise thoroughly first, use markedly less powder than most tutorials suggest, and consider a light targeted dusting instead if your skin runs dry.