How to Prep Your Face Before Makeup: A Step-by-Step Routine That Actually Works

Step 1: Cleanse Gently (But Thoroughly)

Starting with a clean face is non-negotiable. You want to remove:

• Last night’s skincare

• Sweat

• Leftover SPF

• Sleep creases and oil

Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser — especially in the morning. Foaming doesn’t mean better. You want your skin clean, not squeaky.

★ Try: this gel-to-cream cleanser that clears skin without drying it out.

Step 2: Hydrate Immediately (Your Skin Drinks Fast)

Once you’ve cleansed, your skin starts losing moisture quickly — especially if you’re in AC or dry climates. Enter: toner or facial mist.

You don’t have to use toner, but applying hydration while your skin is still slightly damp helps everything absorb better.

★ Try: this mineral-rich face mist that feels like a spa spritz in a bottle.

★ Try: this no-frills toner with hyaluronic acid that layers beautifully.

Pat gently, don’t rub. Let it soak in for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Moisturize — But Don’t Overdo It

Think of moisturizer as your skin’s comfy sweatshirt under the jacket (aka foundation). It creates that smooth, breathable layer between your skincare and makeup.

Choose a moisturizer based on your skin type:

• Oily skin: go for gel or water-based moisturizers

• Dry skin: choose creams or balms with ceramides

• Combo skin: a lightweight lotion or layering two different textures (one for oily, one for dry zones)

★ Try: this oil-free hydrator that plumps and vanishes into the skin.

★ Try: this smoothing moisturizer with ceramides and peptides for flake-free application.

Wait a minute or two before your next step so it fully absorbs.

Step 4: Sunscreen (Always, Even If It’s Cloudy)

If you’re applying makeup during the day, SPF is essential. Not just for sun protection, but to keep skin even-toned, prevent dark spots, and delay signs of aging.

Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and choose formulas that:

• Don’t pill under makeup

• Dry down without greasiness

• Leave no white cast

★ Try: this weightless SPF fluid that feels like nothing and plays well under foundation.

Skip makeup with SPF built-in — you’d need too much to get the protection you need.

Step 5: Optional — Primer (If You Need It)

This step is all about extra insurance. If your makeup tends to:

• Fade by mid-afternoon

• Slide off your nose or chin

• Cling to dry patches

• Emphasize fine lines

then primer can help a ton.

You can use primer all over, or just in targeted spots (like the T-zone). And remember: match your primer to your foundation texture. Don’t mix water-based with silicone-based unless they specifically say they’re compatible.

★ Try: this tacky primer for full-glam, budge-proof wear.

★ Try: this glow-enhancing primer that adds a lit-from-within finish.

Step 6: Let Everything Set Before You Start Applying Makeup

Here’s a tip that sounds minor but makes a huge difference: wait 2-3 minutes after finishing your skincare before applying foundation or concealer.

This gives products time to fully settle and grip to the skin, reducing pilling and weird separation.

If you’re in a rush, fan your face or use a cool jade roller to help everything absorb faster.

Bonus Tips for Skin Prep Success

💡 Tip 1: Exfoliate 2–3x a Week

Dead skin buildup = patchy makeup. Use gentle chemical exfoliants (like lactic acid or PHA) a few times per week for a smoother canvas.

★ Try: this gentle exfoliating toner that refines without irritating.

💡 Tip 2: Watch for Product Clashing

If your sunscreen and primer don’t “get along,” you might see balling or texture. Try using products with the same base (both silicone-based or both water-based), or simplify your routine to avoid overlap.

💡 Tip 3: Hydrate from Within

If you’re constantly fighting dry patches or cakey foundation, skincare only goes so far. Make sure you’re drinking enough water and getting omega-3s in your diet — it shows on your skin.

Final Thoughts: Prep Is the Secret Weapon

Most people focus on finding the perfect foundation. But if your base isn’t prepped right? Even the best makeup will let you down.

Get your skincare in sync with your makeup, and you’ll notice:

• Less caking and creasing

• Smoother texture

• Better wear-time

• And an overall more effortless finish

The best part? Once you get your rhythm, this whole routine takes less than 5–7 minutes.