How to Prepare Your Face for Makeup: 4 Steps for a Smooth Look
Follow these crucial steps to build a solid foundation for your makeup to sit on
Published December 4, 2023.
67% of beauty shoppers rely on influencers to discover new makeup products and gain insights. While brand quality can influence the final look, a solid skincare routine will lay a foundation for it.
Picture it like preparing the canvas for a wet-on-wet watercolor painting; without it, the colors wouldn't blend well. So, let's talk about how a pre makeup skin prep helps you create a polished look.
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Prepare Your Face for Makeup in 4 Easy Steps
- Determine Skin Type
- Use a Cleanser
- Moisturize
- Apply a Primer
1. Determine Skin Type
Oily
Do you have enlarged pores and frequent breakouts? Oily skin could be the main culprit, causing your T-zone across the forehead, nose, and chin to shine excessively.
Here are some products and ingredients that achieve the best results for oily skin: for the best results:
- Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and salicylic acid
- Cleanser: Gel-based
- Moisturizer: Oil-free
- Primer: Mattifying
Dry
Dry skin going through a winter period feels rough and tight. It can flake if you haven't moisturized it, causing itchiness and redness.
Use the following dry skin products and ingredients for the best results:
- Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, shea butter, and aloe vera
- Cleanser: Creamy
- Primer: Moisturizing
Sensitive
Sensitive skin—often associated with dryness—is prone to redness and irritation, especially when exposed to new products. Choose fragrance-free and hypoallergenic makeup to avoid discomfort.
Tip: Avoid retinol, as it can be too harsh on your skin. Always check the ingredients before buying a product.
Combination
If you have combination skin, get hydrating, oil-free moisturizers for a balanced and radiant complexion. Look for a foundation with SPF for sun protection, so you don't have to buy a separate sunscreen.
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2. Use a Cleanser
A cleanser removes dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin, creating a clean base for makeup. It also prevents breakouts and clogged pores, especially if you have an oily T-zone. Start by wetting your face, applying the cleanser, rinsing thoroughly, and patting it dry before applying makeup.
Tip: Removing makeup and caring for your skin post-removal is as necessary as applying it.
3. Moisturize
Hydrate your skin with a moisturizer. Your face provides essential hydration to your skin. If you're in your 40s and beyond, focus on age-prevention creams to target wrinkles and fine lines.
4. Apply a Primer
Prep your skin with a primer before applying a foundation for a seamless look. It'll also create a flawless complexion by filling your pores, fine lines, and wrinkles.
A primer is like the glue that makes your foundation look smooth. So, while your moisturizer works beneath, it's the primary base for the rest of your makeup products.
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Sailing Towards Flawless Beauty
You'll benefit from better long-term health if you consistently prep your skin before applying makeup.
A simple cleanse, tone, and moisturize routine with gentle, non-stripping products will do wonders. Think milky cleansers, alcohol-free toners, and lightweight, oil-free moisturizers. Remember to use SPF, even on cloudy days.
Before prepping your skin for makeup, check out the Klever Beauty Box. Tailored for beauty enthusiasts, this monthly subscription delivers an array of carefully selected full-size makeup products directly to your doorstep.
