However carefully applied, cosmetics can pull a disappearing act if you don’t set them. Try these strategies for a lasting glow.

Challenge: Fading

Likely Culprit: Fingertip Application

“The hands’ natural oils break down the makeup formulas,” says Rachael Hood, a bridal specialist and the director of education for the Elan Makeup Studio, in Dallas.

Make It Last: Apply products with sponges or brushes for an even, lasting effect. Then brush on a thin layer of translucent powder.

Challenge: Lip Smudging

Likely Culprit: Lipstick Formula

“Traditional stick lipsticks are very creamy and fade easily,” says Gary Galante, a cosmetics chemist and the founder of Galante Associates, in Signal Mountain, Tennessee.

Make It Last: “The most durable lip color is a highly pigmented liquid that comes in a tube with a sponge-tip applicator,” says Galante. This can include many long-wearing ingredients, because it doesn’t need the waxes that help stick formulas retain their shape.

Face Savers

Apply these products over your finished makeup to keep your look fresh all day.

M.A.C. Fix+, $14
A face spray — one spritz helps makeup last longer.
To Buy: www.maccosmetics.com.

I.D. Bare Escentuals Mineral Veil, $19
A powder that you can dust over makeup to help set it and absorb oil.
To Buy: www.sephora.com.