Any makeup artist will tell you that the key to a flawless makeup application is solely based on the condition of your skin underneath. I will give you some tips, tricks and ways to prep your skin for your wedding or just everyday makeup application
KNOWING YOUR SKIN TYPE
First thing's first, we all have different skin, so the same routine isn't going to work for everyone. Here are the main skin types and what you are looking for with each:
Dry Skin - feels tight after washing it, may have flaky, rough or scaly patches
Oily Skin - visible large pores, greasy or shiny looking
Combination Skin - dry in some areas (usually cheeks) oily in others (usually nose and forehead)
Normal Skin - balanced and clear, not sensitive and no major issues
Sensitive Skin - may burn or itch with certain cosmetics, skin is often has redness
If you know your skin type and/or if you have any major issues with your skin when you apply makeup, make sure to let your artist know and we can adjust from there.
DAY OF SKIN PREP
Skin prep is a major factor to a flawless makeup application, but we can only do so much with your skin the day of your service. Here are a few things you can do to help get your skin in good shape for makeup if you haven't previously done any upkeep:
Double cleanse - you can use the same cleanser, as long as you do it twice for at least 60 seconds each time. This will help remove excess oils and any debris on your skin.
Exfoliate - use a chemical exfoliator to remove dry flaky skin and to shrink pores. A good one to use is the Paula's Choice 2% BHA liquid exfoliant.
Hydrate - EVERYONE needs hydration, even my oily skinned folks. Make sure you drink lots of water and don't skip the moisturizer.
Don't pick - if you're experiencing a breakout, for the love of god leave it alone! Trust me, as a recovering pimple popper I know it's hard, but breakouts are much easier for us to coverup if they have't been tampered with and scabs have formed.
Sunscreen - you know I had to say it. Wear your frickin' sunscreen homies.
DERMAPLANING
If you have a little more time, I highly suggest a dermaplaning facial before any big event. removing your peach fuzz and doing a physical exfoliation will do wonders for your makeup application. It will go on much smoother and you will avoid patchiness, which in turn will help with the longevity of the makeup. Also, if your makeup artist offers this service, it gives them a good chance to analyze your skin up close and recommend some products that will help you prep even further.
IF YOU'RE EXTRA, KEEP READING
For those of you who plan to get their skin in tip top condition for their wedding day, this one is for you. I get asked a lot about long term skin prep and what kind of schedule and routine you should be on, so here's some tips:
See your skincare specialist - starting 6-8 months out from your event, visit your dermatologist, nurse injector and/or esthetician. Now is the time to start any new skincare products and get recommendations for services that will address your specific skin concerns.
Test out more aggressive treatments - 6 months out from your event you can start trying the more aggressive treatments such as hydrafacials, lasers, peels, microneedling and injectables. This is also a great time to start retinol if you haven't already. This way you'll know how your skin will react with plenty of time to heal from any purging or swelling you may experience.
Facials - as often as every 4-6 weeks you can see the esthetician you're working with to maintain your goals and keep your skin moving in the right direction. This may include extractions and adjustments to your at home skincare routine.
Water - our best tool for healthy hydrated skin all over is making sure you're drinking 2-3 litres of water a day
Dermaplaning - book this service the week of your wedding, if you're getting married on a Saturday I always suggest booking this treatment for Wednesday or Thursday.
Sunscreen - DUH. Everyday. I wont stop saying it.