Skincare Before Makeup: The Perfect Base Routine for a Glowy Look
Let’s be honest—no matter how good your foundation is, it won’t look its best if your skin isn’t prepped right.
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Skincare Before Makeup The Perfect Base Routine for a Glowy Look |
The secret to flawless makeup? It starts before you even touch your makeup bag.
Building the perfect skincare base is key to that smooth, radiant, glowy finish we all want.
Whether you're doing a quick 10-minute face or going full glam, this routine will help your makeup stay fresh, dewy, and long-lasting.
Here’s how to prep your skin like a pro—with product suggestions you can actually shop and love.
1. Start with a Gentle Cleanser
Clean skin is non-negotiable.
You want to remove any oil, sweat, or leftover product from the night before.
Try: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser – It’s gentle, doesn’t strip your skin, and works great for all skin types.
2. Apply a Hydrating Toner or Essence
This step preps the skin to absorb everything that comes next and adds that first layer of glow.
Try: COSRX Snail Mucin Essence – It plumps and soothes the skin instantly.
3. Use a Lightweight Serum
Serums are your skincare powerhouse. Depending on your skin type, choose a formula that boosts hydration, calms redness, or adds brightness.
Try: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 for extra hydration.
4. Don’t Skip Moisturizer
A solid moisturizer locks in all the layers below and helps makeup glide on like a dream.
Try: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Light, non-greasy, and a cult favorite.
5. SPF is a MUST (Even Under Makeup)
Never skip sunscreen—even if you're indoors. It protects your skin and prevents premature aging.
Try: Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 – It has a primer-like finish that smooths everything out.
6. Add a Makeup-Gripping Primer
This step bridges skincare and makeup. A good primer can blur pores, reduce shine, and help your look last all day.
Try: e.l.f. Power Grip Primer – Affordable, effective, and loved by beauty influencers.
Bonus: Under-Eye Patches or Lip Balm
While your skincare is sinking in, apply some under-eye patches or swipe on your favorite lip balm so your whole face is hydrated and ready.
Try: Pixi DetoxifEYE Patches + Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask.
Final Tips for a Glowy Base
Let each product sink in for 30-60 seconds before layering the next one.
Don’t use too much—a pea-sized amount usually does the job.
For extra glow, mix a liquid highlighter into your moisturizer or primer.
Wrap-Up
With the right skincare base, your makeup will look 10x better and last longer.
Whether you're going for an effortless "clean girl" aesthetic or full-face glam, this routine lays the perfect foundation. Bonus? Each of these products can be easily found online or in your local drugstore.
Glow starts with skin—treat it well, and it’ll return the favor.