A flawless makeup look starts with a well-prepped base. Using the right skincare products before applying makeup ensures smoother application, longer wear, and a radiant finish. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, choosing the right skincare essentials is key to achieving that perfect look. Here’s a guide to the best skincare products to use under makeup.
1. Hydrating Cleanser
A clean canvas is essential for makeup application. A gentle hydrating cleanser removes dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin’s natural moisture. Look for cleansers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to keep your skin soft and supple.
Recommended Products:
- CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
- Fresh Soy Face Cleanser
2. Lightweight Moisturizer
A good moisturizer provides hydration without making your skin greasy. If you have oily skin, opt for a gel-based or oil-free moisturizer. For dry skin, a slightly richer yet fast-absorbing formula works best.
Recommended Products:
- Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Tatcha The Water Cream
- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
3. Hydrating Eye Cream
The delicate skin under the eyes requires extra hydration to prevent concealer from creasing or settling into fine lines. A lightweight, fast-absorbing eye cream can smooth and plump the under-eye area for a refreshed look.
Recommended Products:
- Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado
- The INKEY List Caffeine Eye Cream
- Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème
4. Primer
A primer creates a smooth base for foundation, minimizes pores, and helps makeup last longer. Depending on your skin type, you can choose a hydrating, mattifying, or pore-filling primer.
Recommended Products:
- Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer
- Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Primer
- Benefit POREfessional Pore Minimizing Primer
5. SPF (Sunscreen)
Sun protection is a must, even under makeup. Choose a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that won’t cause pilling under foundation. Look for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher with a sheer or matte finish.
Recommended Products:
- Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
- EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60
6. Hyaluronic Acid Serum
If your skin tends to get dry under makeup, a hydrating serum with hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture and keeps your skin plump throughout the day.
Recommended Products:
- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Drunk Elephant B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum
- Vichy Minéral 89 Hydrating Serum
7. Setting Spray or Facial Mist
A setting spray or facial mist helps lock in hydration before applying makeup and provides a dewy or matte finish, depending on your preference. It also refreshes the skin throughout the day.
Recommended Products:
- MAC Prep + Prime Fix+
- Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray
- Caudalie Beauty Elixir
Final Tips for Prepping Your Skin for Makeup
- Wait for each product to absorb: Give your skincare products a minute or two to absorb before applying foundation.
- Use minimal product layers: Avoid using heavy creams or oils that may cause foundation to slip.
- Choose non-comedogenic products: Ensure your skincare doesn’t clog pores, especially if you have acne-prone skin.
Conclusion
By using the right skincare products under your makeup, you can achieve a smooth, long-lasting, and flawless look while keeping your skin healthy and hydrated. Whether you’re aiming for a natural glow or a full-glam look, proper skincare is the secret to enhancing your makeup game!