To prepare your skin before makeup application, follow these steps:
1. Cleanse: Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. This creates a clean canvas for makeup application.
2. Exfoliate (Optional): If your skin is prone to dryness or flakiness, consider exfoliating to remove dead skin cells and create a smooth surface for makeup. However, be gentle to avoid irritation, and limit exfoliation to 1-2 times per week.
3. Tone: Apply a toner to rebalance the skin's pH levels and remove any remaining traces of dirt or cleanser. This can also help minimize the appearance of pores and improve the skin's texture.
4. Moisturize: Hydrate your skin with a lightweight moisturizer suitable for your skin type. This helps to lock in moisture, smooth the skin's surface, and create a dewy base for makeup application.
5. Apply Primer: Smooth a primer onto your skin to create a base for your makeup and prolong its wear. Choose a primer that addresses your specific concerns, such as minimizing pores, blurring imperfections, or controlling oiliness.
6. Use Eye Cream (Optional): If you use an eye cream, gently pat a small amount around the eye area to hydrate and prep the delicate skin before applying concealer or eye makeup.
7. Apply Sunscreen (Daytime): If you're going outside during the day, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from UV damage. Allow it to fully absorb before applying makeup.
8. Allow Products to Absorb: Give your skincare products a few minutes to absorb into the skin before moving on to makeup application. This allows them to work effectively and prevents pilling or makeup sliding off.
By following these steps, you'll create a smooth, hydrated base for makeup application, ensuring your makeup looks flawless and lasts throughout the day.