How to Prep Your Skin Before Makeup (From a Stylist Who’s Seen It All)

The other morning, a client plopped into my chair, iced coffee in hand, and asked, “Elisa… how do you get everyone’s skin to look so smooth under makeup?” She had a big event that night and wanted her makeup to actually last. This is something I get asked all the time here at Hello Beautiful Salon, right here in Missouri City near the Walmart Supercenter. The truth is, smooth makeup starts way before the foundation brush ever touches your face.

Always Start with Clean Skin

Makeup sticks to whatever is on your skin. Oil, sweat, old product buildup, it all shows through if you don’t start fresh. A gentle cleanse is key. Wash your face without scrubbing too hard, then rinse with cool water to calm any puffiness.

If your skin feels dry or tight afterward, that means your cleanser is too harsh. Your skin should feel soft, not squeaky. I always tell clients, “Treat your face the way you treat your favorite silk top, carefully.” This one step makes a huge difference, especially in our warm Texas weather.

Hydrate Like It Matters (Because It Does)

Dry skin under makeup is like painting on cracked clay. It never looks smooth. After cleansing, always add hydration. A light layer of moisturizer on slightly damp skin can keep your face soft and plump so your makeup goes on evenly.

If you’re more oily, go lighter. If you’re dry, use something richer. Either way, hydrated skin will hold makeup better and longer. This is especially important for clients who spend time around Mosley Park or anywhere outdoors, our humidity can be sneaky and dehydrating at the same time.

Yes, You Still Need SPF

Even if you’re inside most of the day, sunscreen matters. The sun’s rays come through windows, and that’s often what causes early fine lines and uneven tone.

A thin layer of SPF in the morning is all it takes. Let it soak in before starting your makeup. Many of my clients say their foundation stopped sliding off halfway through the day once they made this part of their routine. It’s such a simple change that makes your skin look and feel healthier.

Give Makeup Something to Hold Onto

Once your skin is clean, hydrated, and protected, create a smooth base. This doesn’t need to be anything fancy. Just focus on smoothing dry spots and calming any redness so your makeup has an even surface to sit on.

I see such a difference when skin is prepped this way. The makeup doesn’t settle into lines or fade as quickly. It’s the kind of subtle thing that makes people ask, “What’s different about your skin?” without being able to pinpoint it.

Small Habits That Help

• Gently exfoliate 1-2 times a week to remove dry patches.
• Use a soft cloth instead of scrubbing your face with a towel.
• Drink water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside.

One of my regulars does a quick under-eye mask while sipping her morning coffee before big work meetings. It sounds simple, but her skin always looks bright and awake.

Elisa’s Honest Take

Prepping your skin isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about taking five extra minutes to care for your face so everything else you do, foundation, blush, that bold lip, actually lasts. When clients see their makeup stay on from morning errands to late-night dinners, they realize those five minutes matter.

If you want to see what a little skin prep can do, come visit us at Hello Beautiful Salon, 3711 Raoul Wallenberg Ln, Suite 300, Missouri City, TX 77459, just down the road from the Walmart Supercenter. You can call us at (832) 987-1375 or book your appointment online. I’d love to show you how good your skin can feel under makeup.