Makeup Tips Everyone Should Know

Especially if You’re New to Makeup!

If you’re just getting into makeup or feel like your routine never turns out quite right, these tips will change everything. I’m sharing the makeup basics I swear by, from skin prep to longer-lasting lips, and they make a difference no matter your skill level.

Let’s get into it.

1. Skin Prep Makes or Breaks Your Makeup

Before you even think about foundation, skin prep matters. You can prep with skincare, a primer, or both.

I love using a milky toner or hydrating essence before makeup. A moisturizer works too, whether it’s a thick cream for winter or a lightweight gel for oilier skin types. I personally use a richer moisturizer during colder months since my skin gets dry and acne prone.

Two important rules:

Let your skincare fully sink in before applying makeup.
Make sure your skincare and makeup ingredients are compatible. Oil-based and water-based products do not always play well together and can cause pilling or patchiness.

If your makeup ever lifts or looks uneven, this is usually why.

2. How to Cover Acne Without Caking

If you struggle with breakouts, this one is key.

Use a clean brush or your finger and place concealer directly onto the spots that need coverage. Do not blend right away. Let the concealer sit and dry down for a bit so you get maximum coverage without layering product over and over.

Once it sets, lightly blend just the edges. Leave the center alone. This keeps coverage where you need it most.

Clean brushes are especially important if you deal with acne. Dirty tools can cause or worsen breakouts.

3. Prep Your Brush Before Applying Cream Products

This is something I do with every cream product.

After picking up product on your brush, tap it onto the back of your hand first. This helps distribute product evenly, warms it up, and removes excess. It is always easier to build than to take away.

When applying, stipple instead of dragging. This is especially important for dry skin. Stippling prevents lifting dry patches and helps avoid pilling.

4. A Better Way to Apply Under Eye Concealer

If you want bright under eyes without heavy creasing, use less product and a fluffy brush.

Pick up a tiny amount of concealer, prep it on the back of your hand, then apply while looking down. Keeping your eyes relaxed while applying helps prevent creases before they even start.

Lightly buff the product in. You will still get a brightened look without too much buildup.

5. Set Your Brows Before Filling Them In

If your brow products never seem to stick, it is usually because there is skincare or foundation sitting in your brows.

Lightly dust a translucent powder over your brows before applying pencil or pomade. This creates a clean base so your brow product applies smoothly and lasts longer.

6. Always Set Cream Products Before Powders

Before applying powder bronzer, blush, or highlight, set your base first.

Use a loose powder or powder foundation like BB Powder and apply a light layer all over. This creates a barrier so pigmented powders do not stick or go on patchy.

For under eyes, apply powder while looking down to help prevent creasing.

7. Bronzer Placement That Looks Natural

To avoid harsh lines, blend bronzer into your hairline, ears, and slightly down the neck. This helps everything look cohesive, especially if your hair is pulled back.

If you hate traditional nose contour, take whatever is left on your bronzer brush and lightly sweep it down the sides of your nose for a subtle effect.