5 September 2025
By Roger Kennedy
roger@TheCork.ie
Fashion / Entertainment
For students balancing long days and unpredictable schedules, putting effort into makeup can sometimes feel pointless. You leave the house looking fresh, only to find your look fading before your first seminar ends. The solution isn’t more product, but better choices. With the right techniques and a few simple tools, you can build a look that holds up through a packed day on campus and whatever comes after.
Start with the right base
No routine lasts without a proper foundation. Prepping the skin with a moisturiser suited to your skin type creates a smooth surface and keeps dryness or excess oil at bay. A lightweight primer helps blur imperfections and gives your products something to cling to, which is crucial when you’ll be out all day without a chance to touch up.
Light layers of foundation and concealer will wear more naturally throughout the day. A heavy application tends to break down faster, especially when you’re rushing between classes or spending time outdoors.
The power of long-wear products
Not every item in your makeup bag needs to be labelled long-wear, but a few reliable ones make a difference. Choose eyeliner and mascara that resist smudging, and opt for transfer-proof lip tints or stains that don’t require constant reapplication.
To lock everything in place, a good setting spray is essential. With a quick mist, your makeup will be better protected from heat, humidity, and the general chaos of student life. Whether you’re studying all afternoon or dancing into the night, setting spray helps your look last without effort.
Affordable brands that deliver
You don’t need luxury products to build a dependable routine. Brands like Nyx offer a wide range of student-friendly options, from concealers to setting sprays, that perform well without draining your budget. Their products are widely available, beginner-friendly, and often recommended by professionals and influencers alike.
Finding what works for your skin doesn’t mean buying everything at once. Start small, test how each item holds up during your busiest days, and build your go-to kit from there.
Makeup should fit your lifestyle, not complicate it. With smart layering, a few quality products, and a finish that holds up under pressure, you can create a routine that works from morning lecture to evening plans. The key is consistency, comfort, and confidence — because when your look lasts, it’s one less thing to worry about.