Embarking on your makeup journey starts with the fundamental step of skin preparation. As part of my four-part series on Makeup Basics, this post delves into the crucial skin prep routine that lays the groundwork for a flawless and enduring makeup look.

I’m giving you a little bit of insight into my brain and how my brain works. I am self-taught. I've learned everything that I've learned through watching others, trying myself, trial and error, and I get a lot of questions from people saying things like they “don't know where to start with just their everyday makeup routine” or a lot of things like “online can be like too intense” and “they don't need full glam every single day.” And so in my mind, I've kind of like broken it down into four parts that can help you get started with your makeup routine that can be comfortable for you in like your everyday life.

Whether it's like quick easy, you only have five minutes, or you want to go full glam, this will help. I'm such a believer that if you have a routine and you're confident with it, then you are just going to feel more confident in what you're doing and you'll be able to get ready quicker if you're in a rush because you know exactly what to do, but also you'll have more confidence playing around with things that you've never tried before because you know exactly what you can fall back on.

Keep in mind, my entire skincare routine is much bigger than this but these are the skin prep products I use before I do my makeup each day!

The significance of skin prep cannot be overstated. Before we brush, blend, or contour, it's essential to have a clean and hydrated canvas. I think every makeup routine should start with skin prep because it can transform your daily makeup application.

1. Moisturizing Matters: Segenece Daytime Moisturizer

   Moisture is the secret to a balanced and radiant complexion, regardless of your skin type. Senegence has an incredible daily moisturizer. I love it because it wears so well underneath my makeup. It's lightweight. It's hydrating. It's not greasy. It doesn't pill up underneath my makeup. So always always always this is on my skin.

2. Eye Care Essentials: NeoTight™ Revitalizing Eye Serum | Eyeluminator™ Under Eye Brightening Creme

   Your under-eye area requires special attention. I have a two-step routine featuring the Neotight Eye Serum and Eyeluminating Eye Cream, which helps to firm the skin, reduce fine lines, and add a touch of brightness to your eyes.

3. Sun Protection: SeneSun™ Hydrating Facial Sunscreen SPF 20

   Sunscreen isn't just for the beach; it's a daily necessity, especially in sunny climates like Arizona. It acts as a protective base for your makeup and keeps your skin healthy and protected from sun damage.

4. To Prime or Not to Prime: MakeSense® Silk Primer & Pore Minimizer

   The makeup industry swears by primers, but are they essential? I've shared my thoughts on when and why you might skip the primer, and why I use a primer that goes against the grain to give your skin the most flawless finish.

Skin prep is the foundation of any great makeup routine. By following these steps, you're ensuring that your makeup not only looks better but also treats your skin with care throughout the day. Stay tuned for Part Two, where I'll be covering how to achieve the perfect base for your makeup. Until then, embrace the beauty of a well-prepped canvas!