How to avoid makeup flashback (or looking like a glowing ghost)

Makeup flashback is one of the most common issues with DIY makeup. 

WHAT IS MAKEUP FLASHBACK? Makeup flashback is the ghost white look that appears on your face in photos that were taken using a flash (camera or phone). Even though your makeup may look great in the mirror, the quick burst of bright light from a camera flash will reflect off your skin causing the areas to appear whiter. It would appear you used too light of a foundation or didn't blend in your powder, but this is not the case.

Flashback Makeup Uh-ohs... (^NOT MY MAKEUP^)

WHAT CAUSES MAKEUP FLASHBACK? Typically, the issue lies in the ingredients in your makeup. Most makeup is created with some sort of SPF to provide sun protection. These ingredients, primarily silica, zinc oxide and titanium oxide, are used to reflect the UV rays in order to keep your skin safe from the sun. Because they are designed to deflect the rays away from your skin, they also reflect the artificial burst of the camera flash in the same manner, but when it bounces back into the camera lens, you find you have a white ghost-like glow on your face in the photo.  

HOW TO AVOID MAKEUP FLASHBACK? The best way to avoid the white glow is by switching to a makeup product that contains no SPF ingredients. This is why all the makeup I use is from a professional makeup line and is not available at over-the-counter stores such as Ulta, Sephora, and various department stores. 

You definitely want to make sure your concealer matches your skin tone. It should not be lighter. Keep application sheer and try not to let it get thick or cake-y.

Try to avoid using frosty highlighters as the shimmer will add to the flashback and white ghost-like appearance. 

Matte foundations are preferred since the glowing, dewy look can reflect the light much like a reflection in water. Face powder may be used, but stick to those brands that do not have silica or SPF products in their ingredients list. 

When you are considering makeup for a special day such as a wedding, anniversary, reunion, birthday, red carpet or any other event where photos will be taken, it's best to have your makeup professionally done. This will ensure that your makeup will be flawless in person and in photos.