Whether you’re new to makeup or just want a reliable routine, this guide will walk you through every step — from skincare prep to the final setting spray.
You’ll also get Amazon-recommended products for each one, so you can shop confidently and build a makeup kit that actually works. Let’s dive in!
🌿 STEP 1: Skincare Prep (Clean Base = Flawless Finish)
1. Toner (Optional but game-changing)
A toner helps remove leftover residue and balances your skin’s pH before moisturizer and makeup.
🛍 Try this: Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner
💡 Why it works: Alcohol-free and packed with aloe and rose water, this cult-favorite gently soothes and preps your skin for layers to come.
2. Moisturizer
This step is non-negotiable. Hydrated skin = smoother makeup application and less cakey foundation.
🛍 Try this: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion
💡 Why it works: Lightweight and dermatologist-approved, it keeps your skin plump without feeling greasy.
3. Sunscreen
Yes, every single day — even if you’re indoors. SPF is your skin’s BFF.
🛍 Try this: CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
💡 Why it works: It blends easily, leaves no white cast, and doubles as a primer.
🎯 STEP 2: Prime Time
4. Face Primer
Your foundation needs a grippy base to stay flawless all day.
🛍 Try this: e.l.f. Poreless Putty Primer
💡 Why it works: Minimizes the look of pores and fine lines, with a smooth matte finish.
5. Eye Primer (Optional)
If you wear eyeshadow, this step makes a huge difference in color payoff and longevity.
🛍 Try this: Milani Eyeshadow Primer
💡 Why it works: A tiny amount makes your eyeshadow crease-proof for hours.
💁♀️ STEP 3: Create Your Base
6. Foundation
This is where your complexion gets evened out and glowy — or matte, depending on your style.
🛍 Try this: L’Oréal Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation
💡 Why it works: Lightweight but buildable, this foundation offers natural-looking coverage that lasts all day.
7. Concealer
Use under the eyes or to spot-conceal. Think of it as a mini magic wand.
🛍 Try this: Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer
💡 Why it works: Brightens, de-puffs, and covers with a creamy, blendable formula.
8. Setting Powder
Lock your base in place, especially if you have oily or combo skin.
🛍 Try this: Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder
💡 Why it works: Keeps shine away without looking cakey.
💗 STEP 4: Bring Back Dimension
9. Contour
Add depth and shape to your face — cheekbones, jawline, and nose.
🛍 Try this: NYX Wonder Stick
💡 Why it works: Easy to blend, with cream and highlight in one stick.
10. Bronzer
For that sun-kissed, just-got-back-from-vacation warmth.
🛍 Try this: Rimmel Natural Bronzer
💡 Why it works: Gives a soft, buildable glow with no orange undertones.
11. Blush
Adds life to your face — just a tap on the cheeks and you’re glowing.
🛍 Try this: e.l.f. Primer Infused Blush
💡 Why it works: Long-lasting and comes in flattering shades for all skin tones.
12. Highlighter (Optional but addictive)
Want that glow-from-within look? This step delivers.
🛍 Try this: Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder
💡 Why it works: Silky texture and a beam of radiance at a drugstore price.
👁 STEP 5: Define the Eyes
13. Eyeshadow
Whether you’re keeping it neutral or going bold, this is your creative playground.
🛍 Try this: Maybelline The Nudes Eyeshadow Palette
💡 Why it works: Affordable, pigmented, and beginner-friendly.
14. Eyeliner (Optional)
Create definition along your lash line — classic or winged.
🛍 Try this: NYX Epic Ink Liner
💡 Why it works: Precision tip and waterproof formula.
15. Eyelash Curler
Don’t skip this if you want lifted, open eyes.
🛍 Try this: Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler
💡 Why it works: Iconic for a reason — fits most eye shapes and adds instant lift.
16. Mascara
Lengthen and define those lashes.
🛍 Try this: L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara
💡 Why it works: Adds dramatic volume without clumping.
17. Brow Gel (Optional but powerful)
Fluff them up or lock them in — your choice.
🛍 Try this: NYX The Brow Glue
💡 Why it works: Holds brows in place without crunchiness.
💋 STEP 6: Lips + Set
18. Lip Primer (Optional)
Helps your lip color last longer and smooths texture.
🛍 Try this: e.l.f. Lip Primer & Plumper Duo
💡 Why it works: Fills in lines and helps color stay put.
19. Lip Liner (Optional but recommended for lipstick lovers)
Shape your lips or prevent feathering.
🛍 Try this: NYX Slim Lip Pencil
💡 Why it works: Creamy and available in tons of shades.
20. Lipstick
The final touch — go bold, nude, matte, or glossy.
🛍 Try this: Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Lipstick
💡 Why it works: Intense color that doesn’t budge (even through coffee).
21. Setting Spray
Lock it all in. You did the work — now make it last.
🛍 Try this: Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray
💡 Why it works: Legendary for a reason — your makeup won’t melt, smudge, or fade.
🛒 Build Your Kit, Your Way
Not every step is mandatory, but this guide gives you a complete roadmap. Whether you’re headed to work, a date, or just experimenting, these product picks are reliable, affordable, and beginner-approved.
Which step do you already love, and which one are you excited to try next? ✨💄
