The Correct Order to Apply Makeup: Step-by-Step for Beginners

The Correct Order to Apply Makeup: Step-by-Step for Beginners

If you have ever stared at your makeup bag and wondered, "Wait, does concealer go on before or after foundation?" you are not alone. Stepping into the world of makeup can feel overwhelming. Applying products in the wrong sequence can lead to pilling, creasing, and makeup that melts off halfway through the day.

As beauty experts, we are here to clear the confusion. Understanding the correct order to apply makeup is the secret to achieving that flawless, airbrushed finish. Here is your definitive, step-by-step guide to layering your products like a pro.

Step 1: Prep and Hydrate (The Golden Rule)

Beautiful makeup starts with beautiful skin. Never apply makeup to a dry, unwashed face. Start by massaging a few drops of a nourishing facial oil into your skin to create a plump canvas. Our Magic Drops provide deep hydration and a natural glow without feeling greasy.

Pro Tip: If you struggle with products clumping together during this step, read our guide on how to layer skincare and makeup in summer without pilling.

Step 2: Prime to Perfect

A primer acts as a protective barrier between your skin and your makeup. It smooths out texture, fills in pores, and gives your foundation something to grip. Apply a pea-sized amount of the Matte Finish Primer mainly on your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) to control excess oil.

Want to know exactly how blurring technology works? Check out our deep dive into the best pore blurring primer for indian skin.

Step 3: Build Your Base (Foundation or Tint)

Now it is time to even out your complexion. Always apply your foundation before concealer. If you apply concealer first, blending your foundation will just wipe the concealer right off!

Not sure which base is right for your lifestyle? Read our comparison: Skin Tint vs Foundation: Daily Wear Guide.

Step 4: Conceal and Brighten

Once your base is down, you can see exactly where you need a little extra help. Use the Serum Concealer to target specific areas:

  1. The inner corners of your under-eyes (to hide dark circles).

  2. Around the corners of your nose (to hide redness).

  3. Directly over any blemishes.

If you are dealing with stubborn dark spots, our tutorial on how to hide acne scars and pigmentation without looking cakey has you covered.

Step 5: Frame Your Face (Brows and Eyes)

With your flawless canvas complete, move on to defining your features. We recommend working on your brows and eyes before moving to the rest of your face.

  1. Brows: Brush your hairs upward with the Eye Brow Shaper to instantly lift your face. (Learn the soap brow secret for a natural look here).

  2. Waterline: Glide the intensely black Noiré Kohl Kajal along your lower waterline for depth.

  3. Lashes: Finish with a coat of Volume Mascara to open up your eyes.

Shortcut: You can grab all three of these essentials in one go with the Inclusif Eye Can Kit.

Step 6: Lock It All In

The final, non-negotiable step in the correct order to apply makeup is setting your hard work so it lasts. Hold the Fix & Flaunt Makeup Setting Spray about an arm's length away and mist your entire face. This melts all the layers together, removing any powdery finish and locking out humidity.

For more tips on surviving the heat, explore how to make makeup last longer in a humid Indian summer.

Ready to Simplify Your Routine?

Memorizing the correct order to apply makeup is much easier when you have formulas designed to work flawlessly together. If you are starting from scratch, take the guesswork out of your morning with our all-in-one Base It Up Kit. It includes your primer, foundation, concealer, and setting spray everything you need for a crease-free, glowing face.

If you are a complete beginner looking to master this in record time, do not forget to check out our 5-Minute Makeup Routine for Beginners (Step-by-Step).

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