How to Prep Skin For Makeup

Skincare is the base of all makeup. This is why makeup applies best over skin that has just been prepped and cleaned accordingly. Although some may be paranoid that the likelihood of chemicals may seep into their skin more, that is not true. Prepping the skin before makeup is much more different than preparing it for a bedtime routine because it also requires building a good base. This is also a necessary time to recognize the importance of using clean products that will not damage your skin.

Cleansing

Before debating what products to use for hydration, ensuring your skin is cleansed correctly is essential. In this case, I like to use any cleanser I know will deep clean and keep the skin radiant. This is important because if the cleanser is too dry, it will show when the makeup sits on the face and shows texture. Right now, the skin cleanser works best for my sensitive and dry skin is this hydrating Kombuha cleanser. It’s clean and cruelty-free and has done a fantastic job keeping my skin moisturized.

Hydration

Personally, my skin type is dehydrated. I’ve struggled with psoriasis and eczema and cannot have too much moisture on my face. If your skin type is oilier, I suggest skipping an oil. I like to use facial oil and not a serum because serums are infused with chemicals meant to be soaked up by the skin. This also reduces friction between layering makeup and helps avoid unexpected or unwanted results. Finally, I will seal the oil with a hydrating moisturizer. This step is essential because it keeps the nourishment locked in and provides a grip for the makeup.

Primer

This step is optional if you are using a moisturizer because a moisturizer acts as a primer. However, some people use it as an additional layer to prevent anything from building into the pores. Although when using a primer, it’s essential to match it to your foundation to avoid piling. For example, if your primer is silicone based, make sure your foundation is as well. On the other hand, if your primer is water-based, mirror it with your foundation. People tend to misuse primer and have various experiences because few follow this step. This is also why using a moisturizer may be best because it typically meshes well with most foundations.

Conclusion

Knowing your skin type is essential because it can help determine how much product and moisture is needed. Hydration is the key to a flawless makeup base, and knowing what is in your outcomes when layering them makes a difference. There is no “right” or “wrong” way when doing these routines because everyone needs to address their most critical needs first. It’s not wrong to exclude primer, but if that step feels too heavy, it’s just as possible to achieve great results with a moisturizer.