We’re always looking for the best foundation finish and trying out different techniques, all with the goal of achieving a flawless face. But what’s equally important is how you prep your face. Clean, hydrated, and protected skin are essential skincare steps that translate into a smoother, more youthful, and longer-lasting makeup look. Here are four super quick pre-makeup steps that cover all the bases!
1) Cleanse
The first step is to cleanse the skin, removing any oil, dirt, and leftover makeup. Facial wipes and micellar waters work great for that because they’re so quick and easy (especially since there’s no rinsing involved!). Plus they even provide some extra exfoliation in the process.
My current go-to is the Sesderma Sensyses Cleanser. It works similar to a micellar water solution, only it uses lipid bubbles which create a foaming action and help ‘lift’ impurities from the pores. The cleanser comes in a few different versions – I use ‘Sebum’, created for oily/acne-prone skin. I love it because it instantly cleanses and mattifies my skin without leaving a residue behind or causing any dryness.
2) Moisturize/Prime/Protect
Moisturizing and priming the skin is essential for a smooth and even foundation application. At the same time, it’s important to protect your skin from sun damage. Thankfully, there are many multi-tasking products that cover all three in one step.
One example is the KARYNG Complete SPF 50. It combines a moisturizer, primer, all-natural sunscreen plus anti-aging benefits. The primer portion not only smooths pores, it also evens and illuminates skin. It corrects so well that, on my good skin days, I can get away with wearing this just on its own. The anti-aging benefits are equally impressive – it helps to increase elastin and collagen within just the first two weeks of using it daily!
3) Smooth Undereyes
The undereye area can be a tricky spot when it comes to maintaining a smooth and even look. To help hydrate, prime, and smooth, I always make sure to apply a few quick dabs of eye cream, both under my eye as well as over the lid.
My HG eye cream is the Joanna Vargas Revitalizing Eye Cream. It’s the most lightweight eye cream I’ve ever tried, and absorbs super quick without any greasy residue (perfect for daily wear). It’s also a little bit of a multi-tasker – in addition to hydrating the eye area, it also helps de-puff, brighten, and smooth away lines over time.
4) Hydrate Lips
Whether you wear lipstick, gloss, or stain, or just like to go bare, a lip balm is a must to keep our pouts looking healthy and smooth. The one I’ve been reaching for most often is the Malin+Goetz Mojito Lip Balm. Its soothing gel formula works better than any other balms I’ve tried – it instantly smooths my lips and keeps them hydrated – even long after it’s worn off. Oh, and it has a slight hint of mojito scent – bonus!
What are some of the products you use as part of your pre-makeup morning routine?
