The Right Makeup Order The Ideal Sequence

If you’ve ever been overwhelmed by an array of fabulous makeup products, unsure of where to start, you’re certainly not alone. Products like foundations, concealers, powders, blushes, and highlighters promise to deliver flawless skin and elevate your look and mood with just a few brush strokes. However, this only works if you know the correct sequence for applying your makeup. Missteps in application can lead to unflattering streaks and persistent raccoon eyes that are a hassle to clean up.

Rest assured, mastering makeup application is much simpler than it appears. Here’s the ideal sequence for applying your makeup to achieve

Set the Stage with Moisturizer, Sunscreen, and Primer
The correct order of applying skincare products is equally crucial. After cleansing your face, slather on your moisturizer and sunscreen. Allow at least 10 minutes for your skin to absorb these products before proceeding with a primer to create a robust makeup foundation.
Lay the Base with Foundation, BB Cream, or CC Cream
The initial cosmetic to reach for should be your foundation, BB cream, or CC cream. If you opt for layering, like a liquid BB cream underneath a powder foundation, always start with the liquid product first, followed by the powder.
Time for Concealer
A common mistake is reaching for the concealer first to combat dark circles and blemishes. However, starting with foundation often reduces the amount of concealer needed. Apply a concealer one shade lighter than your skin tone under your eyes and blend it into your skin using a concealer brush. Set your concealer and foundation with a translucent powder to avoid streaking and prevent makeup from settling into fine lines.
Brighten Up with Blush, Bronzer, and Highlighter
Now’s the time to highlight and brighten your features. Apply blush to your cheeks, blending the makeup towards your temple. If you plan on using bronzer, now is the moment to achieve that glow. Finish off with a highlighter, applying it to the top of your cheekbones, brow bones, forehead center, nose, and chin for a radiant, light-reflecting finish.
Prep and Apply Eye Shadow
Makeup artist applies eyeshadow
can be tricky, especially for beginners. A primer is critical for extending your eyeshadow’s lifespan and preventing streaks. Apply a thin primer layer over your lids and allow it to settle and dry. Start with a neutral eyeshadow shade all over your lid, followed by a darker contour in the crease and along your top lash. Finish with a lighter, brighter highlighter shadow just below your brow to accentuate and open up your eyes.
Perfect Your Look with Eyeliner
Now’s the time to hone your cat-eye makeup skills. Apply eyeliner over eyeshadow, experimenting with a broad wing, a thin line, or a subtle liner swipe along your bottom lashes’ outer corners. It’s crucial NOT to apply eyeliner to your lower waterline as it can make your eyes look smaller and sunken.
Add Volume with Mascara
Almost done with your eye makeup routine. Curl your lashes with a lash curler and apply two coats of your favourite mascara. Carefully brush the mascara through your lashes, wiggling the brush to avoid clumps. Use a lash comb to eliminate any clumpy areas.
Final Touches with Lipstick or Lip Gloss
The most exciting part of makeup application is choosing a lipstick and adding the final touches to your face. For defined lips, line them first with a nude lip liner and fill in your lips with the same liner to make your lipstick last longer. Choose between matte lipstick, gloss, or creme formula, and apply the product with your finger or a lip brush for more control.

And there you have it – a flawless makeup application in less time and with less hassle than you ever imagined possible.

FAQ: Makeup Order and Tutorial

What Is the Correct Order of Makeup?

Applying makeup in the correct order ensures a smooth, lasting finish. Here’s a guide to the proper sequence of makeup application:

Skincare:
- Cleanser: Start with a clean face.
- Toner: Apply toner to balance the skin’s pH.
- Serum: Use a serum tailored to your skin concerns.
- Moisturizer: Hydrate your skin with a moisturizer.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen for protection against UV rays.
Primer:
- Apply a primer to create a smooth base and help your makeup last longer.
Foundation:
- Use a foundation that matches your skin tone, applying it evenly across your face.
Concealer:
- Apply concealer under the eyes, around the nose, and on any blemishes or spots.
Eyes:
- Eyebrows: Fill in and shape your eyebrows with a pencil, powder, or gel.
- Eyeshadow: Apply eyeshadow, starting with a neutral base and building up with darker shades as desired.
- Eyeliner: Line your eyes with pencil, gel, or liquid eyeliner.
- Mascara: Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes.
Blush, Bronzer, and Highlighter:
- Blush: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks.
- Bronzer: Use bronzer to contour your cheekbones, jawline, and temples.
- Highlighter: Apply highlighter to the high points of your face – cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose.
Lip Products:
- Lip Liner: Outline your lips with a lip liner.
- Lipstick/Gloss: Apply your chosen lip color.
Setting Powder/Spray:
- Set your makeup with a translucent powder or a setting spray to ensure it lasts all day.

How to Do Makeup Step by Step?

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to applying makeup:

Prep the Skin:
- Cleanse: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
- Tone: Use a toner to refine pores and balance your skin.
- Serum: Apply a serum suiting your skin type.
- Moisturize: Moisturize your skin thoroughly.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin with a broad-spectrum SPF.
Primer:
- Application: Smooth a primer over your face, focusing on areas where makeup tends to wear off (like the T-zone).
Foundation:
- Choose the Right Shade: Select a foundation that matches your skin tone.
- Application: Use a brush, sponge, or fingers to apply the foundation evenly across your face, blending well into the neck.
Concealer:
- Under Eyes: Apply concealer under your eyes in a triangle shape to brighten and conceal dark circles.
- Blemishes: Dab concealer on any blemishes or redness and blend.
Eyes:
- Eyebrows:
  - Shape and Fill: Fill in and define your brows using a pencil, powder, or brow gel.
- Eyeshadow:
  - Base Color: Apply a neutral base color all over the lid.
  - Crease: Use a darker shade in the crease to add depth.
  - Lid: Apply a medium shade on the lid.
  - Highlight: Use a light, shimmery shade on the brow bone and inner corner of the eye.
- Eyeliner:
  - Lining: Draw a line along the upper lash line with a pencil, gel, or liquid liner. Optionally, line the lower lash line.
- Mascara:
  - Apply: Apply one or two coats of mascara to the upper and lower lashes.
Face:
- Blush:
  - Application: Smile and apply blush to the apples of your cheeks, blending upwards towards the temples.
- Bronzer:
  - Contour: Apply bronzer to the hollows of your cheeks, sides of your nose, and along the jawline.
- Highlighter:
  - Highlight: Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the cupid’s bow, and the brow bone.
Lips:
- Lip Liner:
  - Outline: Define your lips with a lip liner.
- Lipstick/Gloss:
  - Apply: Fill in your lips with lipstick or gloss.
Setting Powder/Spray:
- Set Makeup: Use a translucent setting powder to set your makeup. Alternatively, you can use a setting spray for a longer-lasting finish and a more natural look.

By following these steps and applying your makeup in the correct order, you can achieve a flawless and long-lasting look.

FAQ: Basic Makeup Steps

What Are the 5 Steps of Makeup Order?

For a quick and effective makeup routine, you can simplify your regimen into five essential steps:

Base Preparation:
- Primer: Start with a primer to create a smooth base and make your makeup last longer.
Foundation and Concealer:
- Foundation: Apply foundation to even out your skin tone. Use a lightweight, buildable formula.
- Concealer: Use concealer to cover any blemishes, dark circles, or areas that need extra coverage.
Eyes:
- Eyebrows: Define and fill in your brows to frame your face.
- Eyeshadow: Apply a neutral eyeshadow to enhance your eyes.
- Eyeliner & Mascara: Line your eyes and apply mascara to make your lashes look fuller and longer.
Blush and Bronzer:
- Blush: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks for a healthy glow.
- Bronzer: Lightly contour with bronzer to add warmth and dimension to your face.
Lips:
- Lip Color: Finish with a lip color that complements your look. This can be a lipstick, lip gloss, or tinted balm.

What Makeup Do I Start With?

When starting your makeup routine, follow these initial steps to ensure a flawless application:

Skincare Preparation:
- Cleanser: Begin with a clean face by using a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type.
- Moisturizer: Hydrate your skin with a good moisturizer to create a smooth canvas.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Primer:
- Application: Use a primer to fill in pores and fine lines, creating a smooth base for your makeup. This step also helps in making your makeup last longer.
Foundation:
- Choosing the Right Shade: Select a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly.
- Application: Use a brush, sponge, or your fingers to apply the foundation evenly over your face, blending well into the neck to avoid any harsh lines.

By starting with these steps, you set a solid foundation for the rest of your makeup application.

Makeup Order for Beginners

If you’re new to makeup, following a simple and straightforward order can help you achieve a flawless finish. Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to the correct sequence of makeup application:

Step-by-Step Makeup Order for Beginners

Prep the Skin:
- Cleanser: Start with a clean face using a gentle cleanser.
- Moisturizer: Apply a suitable moisturizer to hydrate your skin.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (if you’re applying makeup in the morning).
Primer:
- Application: Apply a primer to smooth out your skin and help your makeup last longer.
Foundation:
- Choosing the Right Shade: Select a foundation that matches your skin tone.
- Application: Use a brush, sponge, or your fingers to apply the foundation evenly across your face, blending well into the neck.
Concealer:
- Targeted Application: Apply concealer under the eyes to cover dark circles and on any blemishes or red spots. Blend gently with your finger or a small brush.
Setting Powder (Optional):
- Light Application: Use a translucent setting powder to set your foundation and concealer, focusing on oily areas like the T-zone.
Eyebrows:
- Fill and Define: Use a brow pencil or powder to fill in sparse areas and define the shape of your eyebrows.
Eyeshadow:
- Neutral Shades: Start with neutral shades. Apply a light shade all over the lid and a slightly darker shade in the crease for depth.
- Blending: Blend well to avoid any harsh lines.
Eyeliner:
- Simple Line: Apply eyeliner along the upper lash line. Beginners may find pencils easier to use than liquid liners.
Mascara:
- Enhance Lashes: Apply one or two coats of mascara to the upper and lower lashes for added volume and length.
Blush:
- Natural Flush: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples for a natural look.
Bronzer (Optional):
- Contour Lightly: Lightly apply bronzer to the hollows of your cheeks, sides of your nose, and along your jawline for added dimension.
Highlighter (Optional):
- Subtle Glow: Apply highlighter to the high points of your face – cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose – for a subtle glow.
Lip Color:
- Choose a Shade: Apply a lip color that complements your overall look. This can be a lipstick, gloss, or tinted balm.
Setting Spray (Optional):
- Set Makeup: Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and keep it looking fresh throughout the day.

Basic Product Recommendations for Beginners

Primer: Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser
Foundation: L’Oréal Paris True Match Super Blendable Foundation
Concealer: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer
Setting Powder: Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder
Eyebrow Pencil: NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil
Eyeshadow: e.l.f. Cosmetics Mad for Matte Eyeshadow Palette
Eyeliner: L’Oréal Paris Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner
Mascara: Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
Blush: Milani Baked Blush
Bronzer: Physicians Formula Butter Bronzer
Highlighter: Wet n Wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder
Lip Color: Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm
Setting Spray: NYX Professional Makeup Setting Spray

By following these steps and using beginner-friendly products, you’ll be able to create a beautiful, natural makeup look.

Makeup Order When Contouring

Contouring adds dimension to your face by highlighting and shading specific areas. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying makeup when you’re incorporating contouring into your routine:

Step-by-Step Makeup Order Including Contouring

Prep the Skin:
- Cleanser: Start with a clean face using a gentle cleanser.
- Moisturizer: Apply a suitable moisturizer to hydrate your skin.
- Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen if you’re doing your makeup in the morning.
Primer:
- Application: Apply a primer to smooth out your skin texture and ensure your makeup lasts longer.
Foundation:
- Choosing the Right Shade: Select a foundation that matches your skin tone.
- Application: Use a brush, sponge, or your fingers to apply the foundation evenly across your face, blending well into the neck.
Concealer:
- Targeted Application: Apply concealer under the eyes to cover dark circles and on any blemishes or red spots. Blend gently with your finger or a small brush.
Contour:
- Products: You can use cream or powder contour products.
- Application:
  - Hollows of Cheeks: Apply contour along the hollows of your cheeks, starting from your ears and stopping halfway to your lips.
  - Jawline: Apply along the jawline to define it.
  - Sides of Nose: Contour the sides of your nose to make it appear slimmer.
  - Hairline/Forehead: Apply along the hairline to reduce the appearance of a broad forehead.
- Blending: Use a damp makeup sponge or a contour brush to blend the contour lines until there are no harsh edges.
Highlight:
- Products: Use a highlighter or a lighter concealer.
- Application:
  - Under Eyes: Apply in a triangle shape under the eyes.
  - Center of Forehead: Apply a small amount in the center of the forehead.
  - Bridge of Nose: Highlight down the bridge of the nose.
  - Chin: Apply a bit on the chin.
  - Above Jawline and Under Contour Line: To sharpen the contour, apply a lighter shade.
- Blending: Blend with a damp makeup sponge or a brush.
Setting Powder:
- Application: Use a translucent setting powder to set your foundation, concealer, and contour. Focus on areas where you tend to get oily.
Blush:
- Application: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples for a natural flush.
Eyes:
- Eyebrows: Fill in your eyebrows to define their shape.
- Eyeshadow: Apply neutral or desired eyeshadow colors.
- Eyeliner: Line your upper lash line and optionally your lower lash line.
- Mascara: Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes.
Additional Highlighting (Optional):
- Highlighter: Apply a powder highlighter to the high points of your face – cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and cupid’s bow for an extra glow.
Lips:
- Lip Liner: Outline your lips for a defined shape.
- Lipstick/Gloss: Apply lip color that complements your look.
Setting Spray:
- Application: Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and keep it in place all day.

Basic Product Recommendations for Contouring

Contour:
- Cream: Fenty Beauty Match Stix Matte Skinstick
- Powder: Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit
Highlight:
- Cream: Maybelline Fit Me Concealer (in a lighter shade)
- Powder: Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter
Blending Tools:
- Sponge: Beautyblender Original Makeup Sponge
- Brushes: Real Techniques Sculpting and Setting Brushes

By following these steps in the correct order, you can achieve a beautifully contoured and highlighted look.

Makeup Order with Sunscreen

Incorporating sunscreen into your makeup routine is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. Here’s a step-by-step guide that includes applying sunscreen:

Step-by-Step Makeup Order Including Sunscreen

Skincare Preparation:
- Cleanser: Start with a clean face using a gentle cleanser.
- Toner: Apply toner to balance the skin’s pH (optional).
- Serum: Use a serum targeted to your skin concerns, such as hydration or anti-aging (optional).
- Moisturizer: Hydrate your skin with a suitable moisturizer.
Sunscreen:
- Application: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Allow it to absorb fully for about 5-10 minutes before proceeding to the next step.
  - Tip: Make sure to apply an adequate amount (usually a teaspoon for the face and neck) and cover all areas that will be exposed to the sun.
Primer:
- Application: Apply a primer to create a smooth base and help your makeup last longer. Choose a primer that complements your skin type (e.g., mattifying for oily skin, hydrating for dry skin).
Foundation:
- Choosing the Right Shade: Select a foundation that matches your skin tone.
- Application: Use a brush, sponge, or your fingers to apply the foundation evenly across your face, blending well into the neck.
Concealer:
- Targeted Application: Apply concealer under the eyes to cover dark circles and on any blemishes or red spots. Blend gently with your finger or a small brush.
Setting Powder:
- Light Application: Use a translucent setting powder to set your foundation and concealer, focusing on oily areas like the T-zone.
Contour and Highlight (Optional):
- Contour: Apply contour to the hollows of your cheeks, sides of your nose, and along your jawline, and blend well.
- Highlight: Apply highlighter to the high points of your face, such as cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid’s bow.
Blush:
- Natural Flush: Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples.
Eyes:
- Eyebrows: Fill in and define your eyebrows using a pencil, powder, or gel.
- Eyeshadow: Apply eyeshadow starting with a neutral base color and adding depth with darker shades.
- Eyeliner: Line your upper lash line and optionally your lower lash line.
- Mascara: Apply mascara to your upper and lower lashes.
Lips:
- Lip Liner: Outline your lips for a defined shape.
- Lipstick/Gloss: Apply your chosen lip color.
Setting Spray:
- Application: Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and keep it looking fresh throughout the day.

Product Recommendations

Sunscreen:
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 100
- Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 55
Primer:
- Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer
- NYX Professional Makeup Hydra Touch Primer
Foundation:
- L’Oréal Paris True Match Super Blendable Foundation
- Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
Concealer:
- Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer
- NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer
Setting Powder:
- Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder
- Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder
Blush:
- Milani Baked Blush
- e.l.f. Cosmetics Blush Palette
Contour:
- Fenty Beauty Match Stix Matte Skinstick
- Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Kit
Highlighter:
- Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter
- Wet n Wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder
Eyeshadow:
- Urban Decay Naked Basics Eyeshadow Palette
- e.l.f. Cosmetics Mad for Matte Eyeshadow Palette
Eyeliner:
- L’Oréal Paris Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner
- Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
Mascara:
- Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
- L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
Lip Color:
- Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm
- Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick
Setting Spray:
- Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray
- NYX Professional Makeup Setting Spray

By following these steps in the correct order, you can ensure both sun protection and a flawless makeup application.