How to have a good makeup day

Ever wondered why your makeup looks good on some days and not so great on others?

Although it can be a result of external factors – such as the weather, if it’s that time of the month, or how much effort you bothered to put in that day – there is a little method to the madness, and steps you can take to ensure your makeup looks good. So if you’re after fresh, flawless makeup that lasts all day, be sure follow these steps…

#1 Exfoliate

It’s simple – the smoother your base, the more flawless your makeup. Start your day with Mukti 2-in-1 Resurfacing Exfoliant to exfoliate away any dead, dulling skin cells, encourage collagen production and improve skin texture. Immediately after use, the skin will appear smooth and refined, ideal for makeup application.

#2 Prep & Prime

Once you've thoroughly cleansed your skin, prep it with M.A.C Prep & Prime Skin, of course – the formula contains silicone to help absorb excess oil, expertly smooth the skin and ensure a soft-focus finish. We recommend mixing in a drop or two of Sukin Restoring Argan Oil as this will really help hydrate, soften and plump the skin.

#3 Know your skin type

Good make up starts with the right products. Taking time to consider whether your skin is oily, dry, sensitive or even dull can make the world of difference to how your makeup looks once applied and how long it lasts. If you’re unsure, take this quiz to see what products best suit your skin type, and also keep the following guide in mind:

• Oily or combination skin – when it comes to foundation, stick to matte formulations, such as L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte Foundation or mark. Air Matte Mousse Foundation. Next, sweep on a layer of Models Prefer Finale Finishing Powder to ensure makeup stays matte all day long.
• Dry skin – look for a foundation that offers a dewy finish, such as Rimmel London Wake Me Up Foundation or Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum Gel Foundation. To further enhance the complexion, use Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick over the apples of the cheeks.
• Sensitive skin – mineral formulations will keep easily aggravated skin at bay. Nude by Nature Natural Mineral Cover will offer lightweight yet effective coverage, while M.A.C Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Powder will ensure a healthy glow.
• Dull skin – start with jane iredale Glow Time™ Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream to enhance overall radiance, then take it to the next level with illuminator. We like Australis Liquid Strobe Illuminating Drops and endota spa Illuminating Highlighter, as the creamy formulas never look cakey or over-done.

#4 Utilise tools

Use Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge for the perfect base and Miracle Mini Eraser Sponge to fix up any mistakes; apply and contour powder with e.l.f. Fan Brush; keep lashes perfectly curled all day with Ardell Precision Lash Curler; and perfect that winged eyeliner with ModelCo Hailey Baldwin Feline Eyeliner and Applicator Tool.

#5 Layer correctly

A good setting spray will ensure each layer of your perfectly applied makeup stays that way all day long. If you’re prone to shine, opt for essence instant matt make-up setting spray; if you’re concerned with dullness, choose NYX Make Up Setting Spray; and if you’re in need of protection from environmental aggressors (i.e. those who live and work in the city), we recommend Barry M Makeup Setting Spray.

#6 Maintenance is key

Keep a packet of NYX Cosmetics Blotting Paper on hand for touch-ups throughout the day. We know it can be tempting to simply apply a little more powder over a slightly shiny, fading base – but your face will thank you if you resist. Simply blot areas of concern to keep makeup looking good, fresh and matte. And if you’re skin is in need of a little more love, give it a good spritz of Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist. 

Do you include any of the above in your daily makeup routine? How else do you ensure you have a good makeup day?