Introduction
New to makeup? You’re not alone—and the good news is that you don’t need a complicated, time-consuming routine to look your best. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just someone looking to simplify their everyday makeup, this guide will help you build confidence and create a go-to look that’s easy, flattering, and beginner-proof.
We’ll walk you through six straightforward steps using basic products that you likely already have (or can easily find). With a little practice and patience, you’ll be able to put together a polished, natural look that enhances your beauty and gets you out the door in no time.
Step 1: Start with a Clean, Moisturized Base
Before you even think about makeup, skincare is key. Starting with a clean, well-moisturized face ensures your makeup applies smoothly and lasts longer.
What to Do:
Wash your face using a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type.
Pat dry with a soft towel—never rub!
Apply a lightweight moisturizer to hydrate your skin. This step is especially important if your skin is dry or flaky.
Optional: Apply a primer to blur pores, smooth out skin texture, and help your makeup adhere better. Choose a mattifying primer for oily skin, or a hydrating one if your skin feels dry or tight.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget SPF! If your moisturizer doesn’t contain sunscreen, apply one before makeup to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
Step 2: Even Out Your Skin Tone
The second step is all about creating a smooth and even canvas. BB creams, tinted moisturizers, and light-to-medium coverage foundations are all great options for beginners.
What to Use:
BB Cream: A multitasker that hydrates, provides light coverage, and sometimes even includes SPF.
Tinted Moisturizer: Perfect for dry or sensitive skin. Light coverage, easy to apply.
Foundation: Choose a buildable, lightweight formula for more coverage without looking cakey.
How to Apply:
Dot product on the center of your face: forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin.
Use your fingers, a makeup sponge, or a foundation brush to blend outwards for a natural finish.
Use a concealer to cover blemishes, redness, and under-eye circles. Pat it in gently with your fingertip or a sponge.
Pro Tip: Blend down your neck slightly to avoid harsh lines between your face and neck.
Step 3: Add a Natural Flush with Blush
Blush adds warmth, color, and life to your face—instantly making you look fresher and more awake. It’s a game-changer!
Choose the Right Shade:
Fair Skin: Light pinks, soft peaches
Medium Skin: Warm corals, rose tones
Deep Skin: Berries, deep plums, rich oranges
Application Tips:
Smile and find the apples of your cheeks.
Lightly dab blush onto the cheeks and blend it upwards toward the temples for a lifted effect.
Cream blushes are great for beginners because they’re easy to blend with fingers.
Optional: Add a subtle highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones for an extra glow.
Step 4: Define Your Brows
Well-groomed brows help define your face and give you a more polished appearance—even if the rest of your makeup is minimal.
Simple Steps:
Brush your brows upward with a spoolie to see their natural shape.
Fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder that matches your natural brow color.
Use light, hair-like strokes for a natural effect.
Set with a clear or tinted brow gel to keep hairs in place.
Pro Tip: Don’t overpluck or overfill. Your brows should enhance, not overpower, your face.
Step 5: Brighten the Eyes
Your eyes are often the first thing people notice, so enhancing them—just a bit—can go a long way.
Eye Makeup Made Easy:
Swipe a neutral-toned eyeshadow (like beige, soft brown, or champagne) over your eyelids for subtle definition.
Curl your lashes to open up your eyes.
Apply a coat or two of mascara to your upper lashes—and lower lashes if you like.
Optional: Use a soft pencil liner in brown or black to line your upper lash line. Smudge slightly for a natural, lived-in look.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, mascara alone can make a huge difference.
Step 6: Finish with Lip Color
No makeup look is complete without a little something on the lips! This step brings your whole look together.
Choose Your Style:
For a natural look: Go for a tinted lip balm or sheer gloss.
For more color: Try a satin-finish lipstick in a soft shade like peach, rose, or mauve.
For long wear: Use a lip stain or long-lasting formula, then top with balm if needed.
Pro Tip: Lightly exfoliate your lips with a damp washcloth or lip scrub before applying color for a smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
Makeup doesn’t have to be overwhelming or overly complicated. This simple 6-step routine is perfect for beginners who want a fresh, natural look without spending hours in front of the mirror.
As you become more comfortable, you can experiment with different shades, textures, and techniques—but the basics will always be your foundation. Remember, the goal is to enhance your natural beauty and feel confident in your skin.
For more beginner tutorials, product recommendations, and beauty inspiration, head over to GlamSquad and start building your glow-up routine today!