Skin Care is a Long Term Thing - Not a Fling!
- Ben Hughes
- Jan 18
- 2 min read
Flawless makeup begins with skincare. Prepping your skin properly ensures that your makeup looks smooth, stays put and enhances your natural glow. Whether you're getting ready for a big event or your every day routine these pre skin care tips will help you create the perfect base for your masterpiece.
1. Why Skincare Before Makeup Is Important
• Long-lasting makeup: Well-prepped skin holds makeup better throughout the day/night.
• Smooth application: Proper hydration and exfoliation minimises dry patches, fine lines, and texture.
• Healthy skin equals better results: Taking care of your skin reduces breakouts, irritation, and clogged pores caused by makeup.
2. Step-by-Step Skincare Routine Before Makeup
Step 1: Cleanse
Start with a clean canvas. Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type to remove dirt, oil, and residue.
• Dry skin: Opt for a hydrating cleanser with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
• Oily/combination skin: Choose a gel or foam cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
• Sensitive skin: Stick to fragrance-free, calming cleansers with chamomile or aloe vera.
Step 2: Exfoliate
If your skin is feeling rough or dull, gently exfoliate to remove dead skin cells.
• Use a chemical exfoliant (like AHAs or BHAs) for a smooth finish.
• Avoid harsh scrubs, especially before heavy makeup application, to prevent irritation.
Frequency: 1-2 times a week is enough.
Step 3: Tone
A toner balances your skin’s pH and preps it for the products to follow.
• Hydrating toner for dry skin.
• Mattifying toner for oily or acne-prone skin.
Step 4: Hydrate with a Serum
Apply a lightweight serum for an extra boost of hydration or treatment.
• For hydration: Look for hyaluronic acid.
• For brightness: Try vitamin C.
• For redness: Choose a calming serum with niacinamide or Centella Asiatica.
Step 5: Moisturise
Lock in hydration with a moisturiser suited to your skin type.
• Dry skin: Opt for a richer cream.
• Oily skin: Use a gel-based, oil-free moisturiser.
• Combination skin: Apply a light moisturiser evenly or layer richer products on dry areas only.
Let the moisturiser sink in for a few minutes before applying makeup.
Step 6: Protect with SPF (Do not skip this step)
Always apply sunscreen during the day to protect your skin from UV damage.
• Choose a lightweight, non-greasy formula to avoid interfering with your makeup.
• Look for SPF 30 or higher.
Step 7: Prime
A primer creates a barrier between your skincare and makeup, ensuring better longevity.
• Hydrating primers for dry or dull skin.
• Mattifying primers for oily or acne-prone skin.
• Pore-filling primers for uneven texture or large pores.
3. Additional Pre-Makeup Skincare Tips
• Under-Eye Prep: Use an eye cream to hydrate and smooth this delicate area, especially before concealer. I love vitamin C under eye patches.
• Don’t Skip Lip Care: Apply a nourishing lip balm to avoid chapped lips under lipstick.
• Test Products: Avoid using new skincare products right before an event to prevent potential reactions.
With the right skincare routine, your makeup can truly shine. Remember, great skin doesn’t happen overnight—consistency is key! Start these steps into your routine, and watch how your makeup game transforms.
Want a personalized skincare consultation before your next glam session? Reach out to me for tailored advice!
Comments