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Every great look starts with the right base - your makeup routine is no different. Whether you're getting ready for a big night out or just want to step up your everyday style, having a simple, thoughtful process can make all the difference. From prepping your skin to locking it all in with a setting spray, this easy step-by-step guide will help you nail a flawless, glowing finish every time.
Let’s dive into the ultimate makeup routine and uncover the secrets to achieving a look that’s as stunning as it is effortless!
Great makeup starts with great skincare. Take a moment to cleanse away impurities and prep your canvas with a hydrating moisturiser tailored to your skin type. A quick spritz of refreshing face mist or a few drops of serum can work wonders to awaken your skin, leaving it hydrated, plump, and perfectly prepped for the next steps.
For daytime looks, don’t forget SPF. Sunscreen acts as a vital shield against harmful UV rays and should always be the final step in your skincare routine. Apply it after your moisturiser to ensure it forms a protective barrier on top of your skin. Let it absorb for 2–5 minutes before starting your makeup to give it time to set and avoid disrupting its effectiveness. Healthy, glowing skin starts with sun protection!
Primer is the ultimate game-changer in your makeup routine. It smooths your skin, blurs imperfections, and keeps your look flawless all day. Whether you’re fighting excess shine or craving a boost of hydration, choose a formula tailored to your skin’s needs and apply it evenly across your face. It’s a small step with a big payoff, check out our guide to best primers.
It’s time to even things out. Pick a foundation that feels like your second skin - whether liquid, cream, or powder. Using a brush, sponge, start at the centre of your face, where you typically need the most coverage (around the nose, chin, and forehead).
Apply a small amount of product to your brush and use gentle, outward strokes to blend the foundation toward the edges of your face. For an even, seamless finish, focus on sweeping and buffing the product into your skin, blending well along your jawline, hairline, and ears to avoid any visible lines.
Take your time, building coverage gradually is key to achieving that natural, glowing look without appearing cakey.
Targeted concealing is your best friend for hiding blemishes and banishing dark circles. Use a creamy concealer that matches your foundation for spots, and one slightly lighter for the under-eye area to brighten up your look. Gently blend with your fingertips or a small brush for a flawless finish.
Give your face structure and warmth with a touch of bronzer and contour. Follow the "3-shape method" by sweeping a matte bronzer from your temples to your cheekbones and jawline. Amp up your glow with a shimmering highlighter on the high points of your face—think cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow.
Blush is the secret to a fresh, radiant look. Smile, then sweep a shade that complements your skin tone onto the apples of your cheeks, blending toward your temples. For a trendy twist, try the draping technique. The draping technique is a modern way to sculpt and add dimension with just blush. Using a shade that complements your skin tone, start slightly below your cheekbones, where you’d normally contour, and sweep the blush upward toward your temples. This creates a soft, lifted effect while enhancing your natural bone structure. Blend well to avoid harsh lines, and let the blush do double duty as both color and definition—it’s an effortless way to achieve a chic, sculpted glow!
Make your eye makeup pop! Start with an eyeshadow primer to keep colours vivid all day. Layer neutral tones or bold hues depending on your vibe, and define your lash line with eyeliner for extra drama. A few swipes of volumising mascara will complete the look, leaving your lashes long.
Your brows frame your face, so let’s get them just right. Start by filling in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder, using light, hair-like strokes for a natural effect. Next, brush through with a spoolie to blend and shape your brows seamlessly. Finish with a touch of brow gel to lock them in place and add a polished, defined look.
Set your hard work with a light dusting of powder. A fluffy powder brush will help you control shine and keep everything in place. Focus on areas prone to oil, like your T-zone, and keep the rest of your face looking soft and natural.
Give your lips some love. After exfoliating, line them with a matching lip pencil to define your shape. Fill in with your favorite lipstick or lipgloss for a flawless finish. To add dimension, dab a little highlighter in the centre of your bottom lip.
A quick spritz of setting spray is all you need to lock your look in place. Hold the bottle a few inches from your face and mist lightly. It’s the final touch to ensure your makeup stays fresh from morning to night—because you deserve a look that lasts.
Applying makeup is an art, and following the right steps ensures a long-lasting look. From prepping your skin to setting your makeup, each stage plays a vital role in achieving a flawless finish. This guide breaks it all down for you—so you can create a look that's polished and professional every time.
Ready to level up your beauty routine? Follow our step-by-step process and discover everything you need to perfect your makeup at Millies. Whether it’s the perfect primer, a shimmering highlighter, or a bold lip colour, Millies has you covered with the best beauty products!
