This is the Exact Order You Should Apply All of Your Makeup

Makeup order is a tricky topic, mostly because there’s differing opinions on what product lands on your face first, but if you’re tired of stressing over when to apply concealer or if you should really do your eye makeup before sponging on foundation, you’re in the right place. The first step is skincare. While the exact products applied will vary based on your skin type and needs, a thorough skincare routine helps makeup adhere to the skin better, reduces the chances of it flaking off, and can even help your skin appear more glowy. Start with a hydrating or luminizing eye cream, and a good lip balm. Try an oil-free moisturizer if you have oily skin, or a creamier, more emollient moisturizer if you have dry skin. Using a primer is optional, but if you do use it, apply directly after your skincare routine. Oily skin types tend to benefit from the long-lasting, oil-reducing qualities of a primer, while other primers are specifically made to help the skin appear more luminous, hydrated, and even enhance your foundation’s effect. Next, it’s time for eye makeup. It might seem counterintuitive to apply eye makeup before anything on the rest of your face. There's solid reasoning for completing your eye makeup and eyebrows before applying any type of complexion products. That way, you can clean up under the eyes if need be, without disrupting concealer or foundation — especially if it's a heavier eye look." Next, apply your foundation and concealer. You might be surprised how much your foundation can layer and cover without adding concealer. When you assess which areas of the face need more coverage, then it’s time to add concealer. This usually consists of under the eyes, areas prone to redness and blemishes. After the skin tone is evened out and set with complexion products, feel free to add a pop of color on cheeks, a shimmer on the high points of the face, or a bit of contouring with bronzer. If you mess up, you can always use a beautyblender that already has leftover foundation on it to quickly fix the mistake. The next step is lips. If you're wearing a gloss, you might want to apply your powder and setting spray first, but in my opinion, lipstick is always a solid last step when applying color cosmetics because it's the easiest to reapply as the day wears on it. It all really depends on what type of look you're creating. You may be basing your look on a certain lip color, so maybe applying that first is a great guideline. Finish the whole look off with a setting powder or spray, and you’re good to go. The real truth is there's no definitive rule on when you apply certain makeup products. It all depends on your skill level, the look you're going for, and how you're comfortable applying makeup. The only hard-and-fast rule? Skincare, skincare, skincare first!