What to Apply On Face Before Makeup?

Hey besties! So, we all know that flawless makeup starts before you even touch a brush. Like, seriously, if your skincare game is weak, your makeup won’t look its best. I mean, would you start painting on a dusty canvas? Nah, sis. Let’s talk about the real key to a flawless face: what you need to apply on your skin before diving into makeup. Trust, your foundation finna look smooth, your blush poppin’, and your whole vibe will be snatched.

So, buckle up your skincare belts (okay, that was cheesy) because I’m about to break it all down—from prepping to priming—to make sure your makeup slays from 9 to 5…or 9 to 9 if you’re living your best life.

Step 1: Cleanser – Prep That Skin, Babe!

Okay, first thing’s first: clean skin is non-negotiable. Even if you just rolled outta bed and you’re like, “I didn’t even wear makeup yesterday,” stop. You HAVE to cleanse your face. Why? Well, even when you sleep, your skin still produces oils, and the city air is full of yucky stuff that’s chillin’ on your face by morning (gross, I know). Plus, let’s not forget pimples and clogged pores don’t care if it’s #nomakeup day.

A good cleanser will get rid of all those oils, dead skin cells, and pollution hanging around on your face (ew, we don’t know them!). My go-to is something gentle that doesn’t strip my skin because, hun, dry skin under makeup is not cute.

If you’re oily, a foaming cleanser works great, like CeraVe Foaming Cleanser which is lit for not drying out your skin but still getting the job done.

Dry or sensitive skin babes? Try something more hydrating like La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser. Cleanse once in the morning and you’re GOLDEN.

Pro-tip: Use lukewarm water. Not too hot or cold. Play it safe, like ordering ranch with your fries safe.

Step 2: Toner – Oh, You Fancy Huh?

Now, TONER! Some people skip this step, but I’m like – why? Toner helps balance your skin, removes any leftover yuck from cleansing, and hydrates you like that midday iced coffee run.

I personally love using a toner with a lil’ exfoliation action because it helps brighten your face even more. Glowy skin under makeup is the ultimate flex, are we right?!

If you’re oily or prone to breakouts, an exfoliating toner like Pixi Glow Tonic (Hi, Glycolic Acid!) is BOMB. Glowy skin for days, sis.

But if your skin is sensitive and your skincare routine is already extra, a simpler hydrating toner like Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Toner will have your back (and face).

Step 3: Serum – Glow, Baby, Glow!

Next, we serum up! This part can lowkey be the boujiest part of your routine, but hear me out: vitamins for your face? Yes, please.

Vitamin C serums are like the highlighters of the skincare world. They brighten your complexion, even dark spots, and make you look like you’ve been drinking all your water (even if you haven’t – no shade).

I’m obsessed with the TruSkin Vitamin C serum. Makes you look like you’re always living in “golden hour” without needing those Snapchat filters. You all know the one.

And if your skin is more Sahara Desert vibes between seasons (like mine), dab some Hyaluronic Acid serum. The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 is a NEXT LEVEL hydration boost.

“Girl, hydration doesn’t just start in the morning—get that moisturizer game strong and plan for flawless makeup later.”

Step 4: Moisturizer – Keep That Face Hydrated

Moisturized skin = happy makeup day. No dry patches, no uneven texture, no creasing. Plus, your face just feels better after a good quench.

A moisturizer is kinda like the Netflix of pre-makeup prep (yep, I said it): there’s something for everyone! Dry, oily, combo – everyone has a favorite.

For dry skin: Something rich and buttery like Clinique Moisture Surge will make your skin feel like it’s living its best life.

For oily girls: Don’t skip this step! I REPEAT: Don’t. Skip. It. Use a lighter, non-greasy one like Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream. It absorbs super quick so you’re not feeling sticky.

PRO TIP: Always apply your serums and moisturizers upward (gravity doesn’t need our help pulling things down 🧖‍♀️).

“The right moisturizer PREPPS your face for the smoothest makeup application.”

Step 5: Eye Cream – Bags, We Don’t Know Her

Yo, let’s talk about eye creams REAL quick. If you woke up all puffy or with dark circles (those 3 a.m. TikTok binges can do that), an eye cream is gonna snatch those under eyes like a mother’s day sale.

I SWEAR by Caffeine Eye Cream (shoutout to The Inkey List). It de-puffs under-eye bags fast. And remember: whatever happens under your eyes shows through concealer, so keeping it moisturized is key.

If your under-eyes are dryer than your DMs, go for something hydrating and anti-aging, like Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. It’s SO creamy and rich, you’ll wanna slather it everywhere.

Step 6: Sunscreen – Protect Yo’ Self!

Okay, if you don’t already wear sunscreen in your morning routine, take this as your final warning. Sunscreen is an EVERYDAY thing. Even when it’s cloudy. Even if you work indoors. The sun’s rays are creepin’ whether we notice them or not (sorry to break it to y’all).

Sunscreen protects your skin from damage, which can show through your makeup as dark spots or even faster aging. Plus, it creates a nice, smooth barrier for your makeup.

My FAVE is Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40. Not only are you protected, but you also get this gorgeous glow that’s like, “Did she just vacation in the Maldives, or…?” It’s the best multitasker, hands down.

For matte babes, EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 is legit life-saving. Perfect for preventing breakouts too!

Wear it alone if you’re having a natural day, or layer it right before your primer when doing makeup. Either way, you’re sun-safe—no excuses!

Step 7: Primer – The Literal Foundation for Your… Foundation

Now if sunscreen is the final boss of skincare, primer is your fairy godmother. It’s that extra layer that helps makeup apply evenly and stay on ALL DAY.

If you’re dry or want that “dewy model skin” look, a hydrating primer like Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer is where it’s at.

On those hotter days or if you’re oily, grab a matte primer. I stan Tatcha The Silk Canvas Primer. It’s flawless vibes if you’re wearing makeup for hours and cannot afford to check your T-zone every second.

Also, if you struggle with pores (who doesn’t?), hit up Benefit POREfessional Face Primer. Big texture? Not here, babes.

“Primer is kinda like the Instagram filter for your makeup. It smooths everything out, minimizes pores, and gives you flawless selfies. Period.”

Quick Skincare Routine Recap:

Alright, my loves—that’s it! Your skin is literally so ready to be glammed up at this point. By getting your skin prepped right, your makeup will not just look smooth—it’ll stay looking fire for HOURS. Seriously.

And let’s be real, you know you’re gonna take an extra selfie in the Uber because your skin is GLOWING through your makeup. GO GET ‘EM.

Lastly, remember: Your skincare routine is a form of self-care. Treat yourself like the queen you are (even if you’re just doing your makeup to go grab Starbucks). ✨