Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation is loved for its flawless finish and unbeatable longevity — but like any high-performance formula, how you apply it makes all the difference. With the right techniques and tools, you can make the most of this iconic foundation and enjoy full-day coverage that looks fresh and seamless from morning until night.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to applying Estée Lauder Double Wear like a pro.
Step 1: Start with Clean, Prepped Skin
Begin by cleansing your face to remove oil, dirt, and any leftover skincare or makeup. This ensures a smooth base for foundation and helps prevent clogged pores.
Tip: Follow up with a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer. Even if you have oily skin, hydration is key for preventing patchiness and flaking throughout the day.
Step 2: Apply Primer (Optional but Recommended)
Double Wear wears beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a primer can:
- Smooth out pores and texture
- Control oil or add hydration
- Extend wear time even further
Best primer pairings:
- Mattifying primer for oily skin
- Hydrating primer for dry skin
- Blurring primer for large pores or uneven texture
Apply a small amount and allow it to set before moving on.
Step 3: Shake the Foundation (If Needed)
If your bottle of Double Wear has been sitting for a while, give it a gentle shake to ensure even distribution of pigment and consistency.
Note: Double Wear doesn’t come with a pump by default, so you may want to purchase a compatible pump or dispense carefully onto the back of your hand or a palette.
Step 4: Use the Right Tool for Your Finish
You can apply Double Wear using:
- A damp beauty sponge for a softer, skin-like finish
- A flat or buffing brush for fuller, airbrushed coverage
- Fingers in a pinch, though blending can be tricky due to fast drying
Tip: Work in small sections — Double Wear sets quickly, so don’t apply it all over your face at once.
Step 5: Build Coverage Where Needed
Start with a thin layer and add more only where necessary (e.g., redness, dark spots, blemishes). The formula is highly pigmented, so a little goes a long way.
Bonus: You may find you don’t need concealer for mild imperfections — Double Wear does a great job of covering them on its own.
Step 6: Blend Seamlessly into Skin
Blend quickly but carefully, paying attention to areas like the jawline, hairline, and around the nose. Double Wear sets matte, so take extra time to ensure even coverage before it dries.
Pro Tip: Use a slightly damp sponge to press product into the skin for a smooth, natural look with no streaks.
Step 7: Set Strategically with Powder (Optional)
If you have oily or combination skin, setting your foundation with a translucent powder can help prevent shine. Focus on areas like:
- T-zone (forehead, nose, chin)
- Under the eyes (if you applied concealer)
- Anywhere you tend to get oily
Dry skin types may want to skip powder or apply just a light dusting.
Step 8: Finish with Setting Spray (Optional for Extra Hold)
A setting spray can help meld the foundation with your skin and extend wear time even further. Choose a matte-finish spray for oily skin or a hydrating one for dry skin.
Hold it 8–10 inches away and mist your face in an “X” and “T” motion for even coverage.
Step 9: Touch-Up Tips for Long Days
While Double Wear is famously low-maintenance, if you need to touch up:
- Blot excess oil with blotting paper
- Reapply a light layer of powder in shiny areas
- Use a makeup sponge to press and refresh foundation if it begins to separate
Final Thoughts
With the right application technique, Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation delivers smooth, flawless coverage that lasts from dawn to dusk — no touch-ups required. Whether you’re heading to the office, attending a wedding, or enduring a long travel day, this foundation won’t let you down.
Prep well, apply strategically, and set smartly — and you’ll enjoy that signature soft-matte finish all day long.