How to Prep Your Skin Before Makeup: A Professional Routine

After years of professional makeup artistry in Medellín, I can say with certainty that 70% of successful makeup depends on skin preparation. It doesn't matter how expensive your products are if the skin isn't ready to receive them.

The first step is always double cleansing. We start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve sunscreen, pollution, and excess sebum. Then we follow with a water-based cleanser suited to the skin type. In Medellín, where urban pollution is a real factor, this step is non-negotiable.

Gentle exfoliation is the next step, but only if the skin needs it. A mild chemical exfoliant with AHA or BHA once or twice a week keeps texture even and allows makeup to adhere better. Never exfoliate on the same day as an important event to avoid irritation.

Hydration is where many people make mistakes. Oily skin also needs hydration, just with lighter products. I use a hydrating essence followed by a hyaluronic acid serum that draws moisture into the skin. This creates a perfectly hydrated base without excess oil.

Sunscreen is a step I never skip, even for evening events that begin during the day. I use sunscreens with matte or semi-matte finishes that work as primer while protecting skin from artificial lights and pollution.

Primer is the bridge between skincare and makeup. For skin with visible pores, I use silicone-based primers that fill and blur. For dry skin, I prefer hydrating primers with luminous particles. For oily skin, mattifying clay-based primers are ideal.

A professional trick I share with all my clients: apply a thin layer of moisturizer to the lips and under-eye area 10 minutes before starting makeup. Lips will be smooth for lipstick and the under-eye area will be prepared to receive concealer without creasing.

Proper skin preparation doesn't just improve how makeup looks but how long it lasts. Well-prepared skin can maintain flawless makeup for 12 to 16 hours, perfect for those Medellín events that start with cocktails and end at dawn.