Hey there! 👋 If you’re a makeup artist, you know that prepping the skin properly is essential for achieving a flawless, long-lasting makeup look. Especially when working on heavier makeup looks like bridal, editorial, or full glam, taking the time to ensure the skin is well-prepped can make a world of difference!
Applying heavy makeup without a solid skincare foundation can lead to patchiness, creasing, or makeup that just won’t stay put throughout the day. So, let’s go step-by-step through the key skincare steps that you need to follow before applying that gorgeous, bold makeup look! 💖
- Cleanse
Let’s start with the basics—cleansing. Before you even think about applying makeup, it’s crucial to cleanse the skin properly. This step removes dirt, oil, makeup residues, and impurities from the skin’s surface, creating a clean canvas for makeup application. 🧼
Why it’s Important: Heavy makeup can sit better on a clean surface. A thorough cleanse ensures that no leftover oils or makeup are blocking the pores, which can result in uneven application.
MUA’s Tip: For makeup that needs to last, a double cleanse is a game-changer. Use an oil-based cleanser first to remove stubborn makeup and impurities, followed by a gentle foaming or water-based cleanser to refresh the skin.
Product Recommendation: Cleansers with ingredients like micellar water or gentle AHAs work wonders without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
- Exfoliate
Next, we move on to exfoliation. Even though we’re working with heavy makeup, a smooth, even skin surface is crucial for flawless results. Exfoliating helps slough off dead skin cells and smoothes out rough patches or dry areas. ✨
Why it’s Important: Heavy makeup tends to accentuate texture or uneven patches, so smooth skin allows foundation, concealer, and other products to blend seamlessly.
MUA’s Tip: Be careful with exfoliation—too much can lead to irritation, especially on sensitive skin. For most clients, a gentle exfoliation once or twice a week is enough.
Product Recommendation: Look for chemical exfoliants like lactic acid or glycolic acid for sensitive skin, or if you’re dealing with dry patches, opt for hydrating exfoliants with nourishing oils or hyaluronic acid.
- Hydrate
Now that we’ve cleansed and exfoliated, hydration is next. Heavy makeup tends to be drying, so a good layer of hydration will prevent your makeup from looking cakey or flaky as the day goes on. 💧
Why it’s Important: Hydrated skin provides a smooth surface and enhances the longevity of makeup. A well-moisturized canvas will help the makeup glide on effortlessly and stay put.
MUA’s Tip: For oily skin, use lightweight, water-based moisturizers. For dry or mature skin, consider rich, emollient formulas or facial oils that provide deep hydration.
Product Recommendation: Hyaluronic acid serums are a lifesaver for plumping up the skin and providing that extra boost of hydration. Jojoba oil or squalane works beautifully for dry skin!
- Prime
Here comes the magic step—priming. Think of primer as the glue that holds your makeup together. A good primer not only smooths out the skin but also creates a barrier to control oil, lock in hydration, and ensure makeup longevity. 🎯
Why it’s Important: Heavy makeup, especially for longer durations, needs a primer that suits the client’s skin type. Primer minimizes pores, blurs imperfections, and ensures everything stays intact.
MUA’s Tip: Choose primers based on skin type:
Oily Skin: Use mattifying primers with oil-absorbing properties.
Dry Skin: Opt for hydrating, luminous primers that add glow.
Combination Skin: A balancing primer that addresses both oiliness and dryness is key.
Sensitive Skin: Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free primers will prevent irritation.
- Setting the Base
Last but definitely not least—setting! Once the skin is cleansed, exfoliated, hydrated, and primed, setting ensures your makeup doesn’t budge or crease. Whether you use a setting spray, powder, or setting gels, this step locks everything in place for the entire day. 🕰️
Why it’s Important: Especially for heavy makeup, setting helps to absorb excess oils, smooth fine lines, and provide a matte, dewy, or natural finish depending on the look.
MUA’s Tip: For an ultra-durable look, layer a light misting of setting spray or use a translucent powder to set areas where creases are most likely to form (e.g., under the eyes or around the mouth).
Product Recommendation: A good hydrating setting spray or mattifying powder can make all the difference. Avoid heavy powders that may cake up!
As a makeup artist, you know that preparation is key! These 5 skincare steps ensure that your clients get the best possible outcome, even for heavy, long-lasting makeup. From cleansing to setting, every step is crucial for achieving that flawless, professional look. Whether you’re working on bridal makeup, theater looks, or special occasions, these steps are your secret weapon for creating stunning, enduring makeup! 💖
Which skincare step do you swear by before applying heavy makeup? Let me know your thoughts and favorite tips! ✨
