The Ultimate Guide to Doing Your Makeup Step by Step

Are you tired of staring at your reflection, unsure of how to transform your bare face into a polished, put-together look? Fear not, because this ultimate guide to doing your makeup step by step is here to rescue you from makeup mayhem! With simple, easy-to-follow instructions and expert tips, you’ll be able to master the art of makeup application in no time. From prepping your skin to perfecting your pout, we’ve got you covered. So grab your brushes, grab your lipstick, and let’s get started on the path to makeup perfection!

Step 1: Preparing Your Skin

Cleanse and tone your skin

Step 1.1: Choose the right cleanser

Choosing the right cleanser depends on your skin type and any specific concerns you may have. Here are some factors to consider:

Dry or sensitive skin: Opt for a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
Oily or acne-prone skin: Look for a cleanser that is lightweight and oil-free, and can effectively remove excess oil and impurities without over-drying.
Combination skin: Choose a balanced cleanser that can cleanse both the T-zone (oily areas) and the cheeks (drier areas).

Step 1.2: Cleanse your skin

Wet your hands and work up a small amount of cleanser into a lather.
Gently massage the cleanser onto your skin for about 30 seconds, focusing on areas with high concentration of pores and oil production.
Rinse your skin with lukewarm water, using your fingers or a washcloth to remove the cleanser.
Pat your skin dry with a clean towel, or let it air-dry.

Step 1.3: Tone your skin

Toning your skin helps to balance the pH level and prepare it for the next steps in your makeup routine. Here’s how to do it:

Pour a small amount of toner onto a cotton pad or soft cloth.
Gently swipe the toner across your face, starting from the center and working your way outwards.
Blot any excess toner with a clean cotton pad or tissue.
Allow your skin to air-dry for a few seconds before moving on to the next step.

Remember, cleansing and toning are crucial steps in any makeup routine as they help to create a clean and even canvas for makeup application.

Apply moisturizer

Choosing the right moisturizer for your skin type is crucial for a flawless makeup application.
There are various types of moisturizers available, including creams, lotions, gels, and serums.
Consider your skin type when selecting a moisturizer. Those with dry skin may benefit from a heavier, more emollient formula, while those with oily skin may prefer a lighter, oil-free option.
It’s important to apply moisturizer evenly over your face, focusing on areas that tend to be dry or flaky.
Allow the moisturizer to fully absorb into your skin before proceeding with the next step in your makeup routine.
A well-hydrated skin will allow your makeup to apply smoothly and last longer.

Step 2: Applying Makeup Base

Key takeaway:

Apply primer

Use a primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup
- A primer is a foundation-like product that is applied to the skin before makeup. It helps to create a smooth and even surface for makeup application, and can also help to reduce the appearance of pores and fine lines.
- When choosing a primer, it’s important to select one that is compatible with your skin type. For example, if you have oily skin, look for a primer that will help to mattify your skin. If you have dry skin, look for a primer that will help to hydrate and plump your skin.
- To apply primer, first tap a small amount onto the back of your hand. Then, use your fingers or a makeup brush to gently pat the primer onto your skin in a circular motion. Be sure to focus on areas with larger pores or uneven texture.
- Once your primer is applied, allow it to sit on your skin for a few minutes so that it can fully absorb into your skin. This will help to create a smooth and even surface for makeup application.
- After the primer has set, you can move on to applying your foundation or other makeup products.

Apply foundation

Choosing the right foundation is crucial to achieving a flawless makeup look. The foundation should match your skin tone perfectly, and it should provide adequate coverage without looking cakey. There are many types of foundations available in the market, ranging from liquid to powder, and they come in different finishes such as matte, satin, and dewy. It is essential to choose a foundation that suits your skin type and provides the coverage you need.

Once you have chosen the right foundation, the next step is to apply it evenly all over your face. Here are some tips to help you apply foundation like a pro:

Use a foundation brush or a beauty blender to apply the foundation. A foundation brush is perfect for achieving a flawless, airbrushed finish, while a beauty blender is great for blending the foundation into the skin.
Start applying the foundation from the center of your face and blend it outwards towards the hairline and jawline.
Apply the foundation in sections, starting from the forehead, then the nose, cheeks, and finally the chin. This will help you achieve a more even application.
Use a light hand when applying the foundation. You want to achieve a natural-looking coverage, not a cakey or heavy-looking face.
Blend the foundation using circular motions, starting from the center of the face and blending outwards. This will help to create a seamless transition from the foundation to the rest of your makeup.
Don’t forget to apply the foundation on the neck and ears to ensure a flawless finish.

By following these tips, you can achieve a flawless, natural-looking foundation application that will enhance your features and provide adequate coverage.

Set your base with powder

Applying powder to set your foundation and concealer is an essential step in achieving a flawless, long-lasting makeup look.
Using a translucent powder helps to prolong the wear of your makeup and prevent cakey skin.
Apply the powder with a brush or a sponge, focusing on areas with heavier coverage, such as the T-zone and nose.
Use a light hand to avoid adding too much powder and creating a mask-like appearance.
Set your base with powder can also help to control oil and reduce shine throughout the day.
Make sure to blend the powder thoroughly to avoid any harsh lines or unevenness.
After setting your base with powder, you can proceed to apply your eyeshadow, blush, and lip color.

Step 3: Contouring and Highlighting

Contour your face

When it comes to creating a well-defined and sculpted look, contouring is a must-have technique in any makeup routine. It involves highlighting and shading the face to create a three-dimensional effect. Here are the steps to follow for perfect contouring:

Choose a contour shade that is two shades darker than your foundation: When selecting a contour shade, it’s important to choose a shade that is two shades darker than your foundation. This will ensure that the contour blends seamlessly with your natural skin tone and doesn’t look unnatural or overly done.
Apply it to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline: Start by applying the contour shade to the hollows of your cheeks, which are the areas where the light would naturally hit and create shadows. Then, apply the contour shade to the temples and jawline, following the natural curve of the face. Be sure to blend the contour shade seamlessly into the rest of the face to avoid any harsh lines or obvious transitions.

By following these steps, you can achieve a subtle yet effective contour that will enhance your facial features and give you a polished, professional look.

Highlight your face

Choose a highlight shade that is one shade lighter than your foundation
- Look for a shade that is in the same family as your foundation, but with a more golden or pinkish undertone. This will create a seamless transition from your foundation to your highlight.
Apply it to the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid’s bow
- Using a small, fluffy brush or a fan brush, tap the highlight shade onto the high points of your face.
- Start at the top of your cheekbones and work your way down to the bottom, blending the highlight towards your temples.
- Next, highlight your brow bone by tracing the outline of your eyebrows with the brush.
- Finally, use a small amount of highlight on the cupid’s bow, which is the center of your upper lip.
- Blend the highlight towards your nose and chin to avoid a harsh line.
- You can also add a bit of highlight to your chin, jawline, and the inner corner of your eyes for an extra glow.

Step 4: Applying Eyeshadow

Choose your eye shape

Determining your eye shape is a crucial step in choosing the right eyeshadow shades that will complement your features. Here are the three main eye shapes and how to identify them:

Almond Eye Shape

Characterized by a slight curve at the outer corners of the eye
Tips: Choose eyeshadow shades that are lighter in the inner corner and darker towards the outer corner to enhance the curve of the eye.

Round Eye Shape

Eye is the same width from the lash line to the brow
Tips: Choose eyeshadow shades that create the illusion of depth by using darker shades towards the outer corner and lighter shades towards the inner corner.

Hooded Eye Shape

Eyelid droops over the eye, creating a hooded effect
Tips: Choose eyeshadow shades that create a lifting effect by using lighter shades all over the lid and applying a darker shade only to the outer corner of the eye.

By identifying your eye shape, you can choose the right eyeshadow shades that will flatter your features and make your eyes appear more beautiful and brighter.

Apply eyeshadow

Applying eyeshadow is an essential step in creating a beautiful makeup look. It can be used to add depth and dimension to your eyes, as well as to enhance your natural eye color. Here are some tips for applying eyeshadow:

Start by applying a neutral eyeshadow all over the lid. This will provide a solid base for the rest of your eyeshadow look. Choose a shade that is close to your skin tone for a natural look.
Next, use a crease brush to apply a darker shade in the crease of your eye. This will create depth and dimension in the eye, and help to define the contour of the eye. Choose a shade that is several shades darker than your neutral eyeshadow.
Finally, blend the edges of your eyeshadow to create a seamless transition from the lid to the crease. This will help to prevent any harsh lines or visible edges. Use a small, flat brush or your finger to blend the edges of the eyeshadow.

Remember to start with a small amount of eyeshadow and build up gradually. This will help to prevent any streaks or heavy-looking eyeshadow. It’s also important to blend the eyeshadow well to create a seamless, natural look. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to apply eyeshadow like a pro!

Apply eyeliner

Choose a eyeliner that suits your eye shape

Choosing the right eyeliner is crucial to achieving a flawless makeup look. Before applying eyeliner, take a moment to consider your eye shape and choose a eyeliner that will complement it. For example, if you have almond-shaped eyes, a winged eyeliner look can be flattering, while a thick liner look can accentuate rounder eyes.

Apply it along the lash line, starting from the inner corner and working your way outwards

Once you have chosen your eyeliner, it’s time to apply it. Start by applying a small amount of eyeliner to the inner corner of your eye, then work your way outwards towards the outer corner. This will create a smooth, seamless transition from your lash line to your brows. Be sure to avoid the waterline, as this can make your eyes appear smaller and more puffy.

After applying eyeliner to the upper lash line, repeat the process on the lower lash line. If you’re going for a more dramatic look, you can also try applying eyeliner to the lower lash line only, or only on the outer corner.

Remember to blink a few times after applying eyeliner to ensure that it sets properly and doesn’t smudge or fade throughout the day.

Curl your eyelashes

Before applying eyeshadow, it is important to curl your eyelashes. This will open up your eyes and make them look bigger. Here are the steps to curl your eyelashes:

Hold the eyelash curler with the handle towards you and the pad towards your eyes.
Gently squeeze the curler shut, holding it for a few seconds before releasing.
Repeat this process on the other eye.

It is important to be gentle when curling eyelashes, as over-curling can cause damage. Additionally, avoiding touching the eyelid with the curler can help prevent creasing.

Step 5: Applying Lips

Choose your lip color

When it comes to choosing your lip color, there are a few things to consider. First, you should choose a lip color that suits your skin tone. If you have fair skin, look for lip colors that have a cool undertone, such as pinks and blues. If you have warm skin, look for lip colors that have a warm undertone, such as corals and peaches.

Next, consider your personal style. If you want a natural look, choose a nude lipstick or lip gloss. These shades will give your pout a subtle flush of color without being too over-the-top. If you want a bold look, choose a bright lipstick or a metallic lipstick. These shades will make your pout pop and add a touch of glamour to your look.

When choosing your lip color, it’s also important to think about the occasion. If you’re going to a formal event, stick with classic shades like red or nude. If you’re going out with friends, feel free to experiment with bolder shades like blue or green.

Overall, when choosing your lip color, it’s important to consider your skin tone, personal style, and the occasion. With a little bit of thought and experimentation, you can find the perfect shade to complement your natural beauty and enhance your overall look.

Line your lips

When it comes to achieving a flawless pout, lining your lips is an essential step that cannot be skipped. Here’s how you can do it like a pro:

Choose the right lip liner: Start by selecting a lip liner that matches your lip color. This will ensure that the liner blends seamlessly with your natural lip color and doesn’t look obvious.
Define the shape of your lips: Line your lips to define their shape and prevent feathering. Start at the cupid’s bow, which is the middle of your upper lip, and work your way towards the corners. Repeat the same process on your lower lip, starting at the center and working towards the corners.
Create a perfect arch: For a more defined arch, apply the liner along the natural curve of your upper lip, starting at the inner corner and working towards the outer corner.
Fill in any gaps: If you notice any gaps or unevenness in your lip line, use the liner to fill them in. Make sure to blend the liner well to avoid any harsh lines.
Set your lip line: Once you’ve lined your lips, set the liner with a lip primer or a translucent powder. This will help the liner last longer and prevent any smudging or fading.

Remember, the key to perfect lips is all about creating a smooth, even line that enhances your natural shape. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to achieve a flawless pout every time!

Apply lipstick or lip gloss

Choosing the right product

When it comes to applying lipstick or lip gloss, the first step is to choose the right product for your desired look. If you want a matte finish, opt for a lipstick as it will provide long-lasting wear and a smooth, even texture. On the other hand, if you prefer a glossy finish, go for a lip gloss as it will give your pout a shiny, wet-look appearance.

Prepping your lips

Before applying lipstick or lip gloss, it’s important to prep your lips to ensure they are smooth and even. Start by exfoliating your lips using a soft toothbrush or a lip scrub to remove any dead skin cells. Then, apply a lip balm or a lip primer to hydrate and smooth your lips. This will create a perfect canvas for your lipstick or lip gloss.

Applying the product

To apply lipstick or lip gloss, start by lining your lips with a lip liner that matches the color of your lipstick or lip gloss. This will help create a clean, defined edge and prevent feathering.

Next, apply a small amount of lipstick or lip gloss to the tip of your index finger and gently apply it to your lips. Start at the center of your lips and work your way outwards towards the edges. Use a brush or your finger to blend the product evenly, making sure to cover your entire lip.

If you’re using a lip gloss, you can apply it over your lipstick for a glossy finish. Simply dot a small amount of gloss onto the center of your lips and blend it outwards using a brush or your finger.

Tips and tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when applying lipstick or lip gloss:

Experiment with different textures and finishes to find the one that best suits your skin type and personal style.
For a more dramatic look, try applying a darker shade of lipstick or lip gloss to the outer edges of your lips and blending it towards the center.
If you’re worried about your lipstick or lip gloss lasting all day, try using a lip sealer or setting spray to lock it in place.
If you’re not happy with the way your lipstick or lip gloss looks, don’t be afraid to blot it off and start again.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to apply lipstick or lip gloss like a pro and achieve a flawless, polished look.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Apply setting spray

Setting spray is an essential part of any makeup routine. It is a liquid or spray that is applied over the makeup to set it in place and prevent it from melting or fading. Setting spray can also help to keep your makeup looking fresh and radiant throughout the day.

Here are some tips for applying setting spray:

Hold the spray about 6 inches away from your face and spray in a quick, firm motion.
Avoid spraying too close to your face, as this can cause the makeup to become cakey or uneven.
Use a setting spray specifically formulated for your skin type. For example, if you have oily skin, look for a setting spray that contains mattifying ingredients.
Be sure to shake the bottle well before using.
Use a setting spray evenly over your entire face, including the eyes and lips.

Setting spray is an important part of any makeup routine, and can help to ensure that your makeup looks its best all day long. So be sure to give it a try and see the difference it can make in the longevity and appearance of your makeup.

Apply lip balm

Importance of Lip Balm:
- Hydration: Lip balm helps to moisturize and hydrate the lips, preventing them from drying out and becoming chapped.
- Protection: Lip balm forms a protective barrier on the lips, protecting them from environmental factors such as wind, cold, and sun exposure.
- Long-lasting Results: Applying lip balm before makeup application ensures that the lip color stays on longer and looks more vibrant.
Choosing the Right Lip Balm:
- Look for lip balms that contain ingredients such as shea butter, beeswax, and vitamin E, which are known for their moisturizing and soothing properties.
- Opt for lip balms that are free from fragrances, dyes, and other irritants that can dry out the lips further.
- Choose a lip balm that matches your skin tone, to avoid any mismatch with your lip color.
How to Apply Lip Balm:
- Start by exfoliating your lips using a soft toothbrush or a lip scrub to remove any dead skin cells.
- Apply a small amount of lip balm to your lips using your finger or a lip brush.
- Gently smooth the lip balm over your lips in a circular motion, making sure to cover the entire surface of your lips.
- Repeat the process if your lips feel dry or flaky.
Tips for Perfectly Hydrated Lips:
- Apply lip balm frequently throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking, to keep your lips hydrated.
- Avoid using lip balms that contain alcohol, as it can dry out the lips further.
- Stay away from licking your lips, as it can cause further dryness and lead to the formation of lip wrinkles.
- Wear a lip color that complements your skin tone and enhances your pout.

Check your makeup

Before leaving the house, take one final look at your makeup in the mirror
Ensure that everything is blended properly and there are no smudges or mistakes
Check your face from different angles to make sure your makeup looks uniform and symmetrical
If you notice any errors, use a makeup brush or sponge to correct them
Don’t forget to check your lips for any unevenness or missing color
Take a deep breath and give yourself a confident nod – you’re ready to conquer the day with your stunning makeup!

Congratulations!

First of all, let’s take a moment to celebrate your hard work and dedication to creating a stunning makeup look.
It’s important to remember that the most important part of any makeup routine is the confidence and self-love that you bring to the table.
With that being said, here are a few finishing touches that can really bring your look together and make you feel like a total boss:
- Add a pop of color to your pout with a bold lipstick or gloss.
- Use a setting spray to lock in your makeup and keep it looking fresh all day long.
- Spritz some perfume or cologne to give yourself an extra boost of confidence and charm.
- And most importantly, don’t forget to smile and own your look with pride.

Remember, the most important part of any makeup routine is feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin. With these finishing touches, you’ll be ready to conquer the world and shine like the star you are. So go out there and show off your gorgeous makeup look with pride!

FAQs

1. What are the basic steps for doing makeup?

The basic steps for doing makeup are:
1. Cleanse and moisturize your skin
2. Apply primer
3. Apply foundation
4. Conceal any blemishes
5. Apply powder
6. Fill in eyebrows
7. Apply eyelid primer
8. Apply eyeshadow
9. Apply eyeliner
10. Curl eyelashes and apply mascara
11. Apply lip liner, lipstick or lip gloss

2. How long does it take to do makeup?

The time it takes to do makeup can vary depending on the individual’s routine and the look they are going for. On average, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to complete a full makeup look.

3. What order should I do my makeup in?

It is recommended to start with the skin care routine first, followed by the application of primer, foundation, concealer, powder, eyebrow products, eyelid primer, eyeshadow, eyeliner, curling eyelashes and applying mascara, and finally applying lip products.

4. Can I skip any steps in my makeup routine?

It is recommended to skip steps that are not necessary for your specific skin type or look. For example, if you have dry skin, you may not need to use a moisturizer before your foundation. Additionally, if you are going for a more natural look, you may not need to apply eyeshadow or eyeliner.

5. How often should I clean my makeup brushes?

It is recommended to clean your makeup brushes at least once a week to prevent the buildup of bacteria and to maintain the quality of your makeup application.

6. How can I keep my makeup from wearing off throughout the day?

To keep your makeup from wearing off throughout the day, it is recommended to set your makeup with a setting spray or powder, use long-lasting products, and avoid touching your face throughout the day.

7. Can I use the same makeup brush for multiple products?

It is recommended to use separate makeup brushes for different products to prevent the transfer of color and to maintain the quality of your makeup application.

8. How can I make my makeup last longer?

To make your makeup last longer, it is recommended to use long-lasting products, set your makeup with a setting spray or powder, and avoid touching your face throughout the day. Additionally, using good quality makeup brushes and sponges can also help to extend the life of your makeup.