How to Prepare Your Skin Before Putting on Makeup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing your skin before applying makeup is just as important as the makeup application itself. Proper skin prep ensures a smooth, even base, helps your makeup last longer, and prevents it from settling into fine lines or pores. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you prep your skin for flawless makeup:

1. Start with Cleansing

Cleansing your face is the first step in any good skincare routine. It removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities that can interfere with makeup application.

• Choose the right cleanser: Pick a gentle, non-stripping cleanser suited for your skin type. If you have oily skin, a gel-based cleanser works well. For dry skin, a cream-based or hydrating cleanser is best.
• Double cleanse (if necessary): If you’ve been wearing makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing. Use an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a gentle foaming or gel cleanser to remove any leftover residue.

2. Exfoliate (Optional)

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells that can make your skin look dull and uneven. It also prevents makeup from clinging to dry patches.

• Exfoliate 1-2 times a week: Don’t over-exfoliate, as it can irritate the skin. Choose a gentle exfoliator with mild exfoliating acids (like AHA or BHA) or a physical scrub with fine particles.
• For sensitive skin: Use a chemical exfoliant, which is often gentler than physical exfoliants and can remove dead skin cells without irritation.

3. Toning

Toners help restore the skin’s natural pH balance after cleansing and prepare the skin to better absorb moisture.

• Choose a toner for your skin type: Hydrating toners are perfect for dry skin, while a mattifying toner can help control oil for oily or combination skin. Look for a soothing, alcohol-free formula to avoid drying out your skin.

4. Hydrate with a Moisturizer

Moisturizing is essential to ensure your skin is well-hydrated and smooth before applying makeup.

• Pick a moisturizer for your skin type: A lightweight gel moisturizer works best for oily skin, while dry skin benefits from a richer, more emollient cream. For normal skin, a basic, balanced moisturizer will work fine.
• Don’t skip this step: Even oily skin needs moisture to prevent an overproduction of sebum (which can cause makeup to slide off). If your skin is particularly dry, consider a richer formula or adding a hydrating serum underneath.

5. Apply a Primer

Primer is the key to helping makeup last longer and creating a smooth, even surface for foundation.

• Choose a primer based on your skin concerns:
  • For oily skin, go for a mattifying or pore-filling primer that helps control shine.
  • For dry skin, use a hydrating or illuminating primer that adds glow and prevents makeup from clinging to dry patches.
  • For large pores, look for a pore-minimizing primer to create a smooth surface.
• Application tip: Apply a small amount of primer, focusing on areas where makeup tends to fade or settle, like the T-zone, under the eyes, and around the nose.

6. Target Specific Skin Concerns (Optional)

If you have specific skin concerns like redness, acne, or dark circles, now is the time to address them.

• Use a treatment serum: If you have acne, use a treatment serum containing ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide to help target breakouts. For redness, look for calming ingredients like aloe vera or green tea extract.
• Dark circles: Consider using an eye cream or serum with ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C to help reduce puffiness and brighten the under-eye area.

7. Use an SPF (Every Day)

Sun protection is crucial, even on days when you’re not wearing makeup. Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher.

• Choose a sunscreen for your skin type: Opt for a lightweight, oil-free formula if you have oily skin or a richer, hydrating sunscreen if your skin is dry.
• Let sunscreen absorb: Wait for your sunscreen to absorb into your skin for about 5–10 minutes before applying makeup to avoid pilling or makeup sliding off.

8. Hydrate Your Lips

Don’t forget your lips! Dry lips can make lipstick and lip gloss look patchy or uneven.

• Apply a lip balm: Use a nourishing lip balm to keep your lips smooth and hydrated. You can even apply it while you’re prepping your face and wipe it off right before applying lipstick to ensure a smooth surface.

9. Let Your Skincare Settle

After applying your moisturizer, primer, or any serums, give your skin a few minutes to absorb the products fully before starting your makeup routine. This allows the products to work effectively and prevents makeup from sliding or separating.

Final Thoughts

A solid skin prep routine is the foundation for long-lasting makeup and a smooth, even complexion. Taking the time to properly cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and prime your skin will not only improve how your makeup applies but also ensure it stays in place throughout the day. By customizing your skincare prep to your skin type and concerns, you’ll create the perfect canvas for a flawless makeup look every time!