Skincare Routine for Flawless Makeup

February 06, 2025

Image Source @dodoskin

The key to flawless makeup isn’t just the products or skills—it’s skin condition. If your makeup constantly lifts or breaks down despite your efforts, here’s a step-by-step solution for a well-prepped complexion.

Even the most expensive foundation is useless if your skin isn’t in good condition. On the other hand, maintaining a solid skincare routine allows even a small amount of foundation to make your skin look great. When your skin looks good, you don’t need heavy makeup to achieve a polished look. If your makeup keeps breaking down no matter how much effort you put in, start by reviewing your skincare routine.

There are three main reasons why makeup lifts. The most common factor is poor skin condition. If your skin is extremely dry, overly oily, has an uneven texture due to dead skin cells, or has a weakened skin barrier, makeup won’t adhere properly and will break down easily. If your skin condition is generally good but makeup still lifts, the issue may be with the products. When the balance between oil-based and water-based products is off, makeup separation can occur. For example, applying a hydrating base before a matte foundation can prevent smooth application. To enhance adhesion, pair a hydrating primer with a dewy foundation and a mattifying primer with a matte foundation. Also, excessive product use can cause lifting, so apply in thin layers. The last reason may be incorrect makeup application. If proper hydration isn’t provided before applying foundation or if a makeup base is skipped, the skin texture won’t be smooth. To prevent this, build up hydration in the skincare stage, refine the skin texture with a primer, and then proceed with makeup. Finishing with a setting spray enhances adhesion and controls excess oil, preventing makeup from breaking down easily.

If you want to improve your skin condition in a short time, cosmetic procedures can help. The most recommended treatment is the "Skin Booster", which involves injecting moisturizing and regenerative ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamins, and amino acids directly into the skin. This procedure enhances hydration and radiance without leaving marks or causing pain. This treatment is particularly beneficial for achieving a dewy glow. Additionally, if you’re concerned about dull skin tone and rough texture, laser toning is an option. If you want to smooth out fine lines and enlarged pores, high-frequency lifting treatments such as Thermage or Potenza are recommended.

Nighttime Routine for Flawless Makeup-Ready Skin

STEP 1 Deep Cleansing for a Clean Skin Base

Cleansing to Protect the Skin Barrier for Better Makeup Application
Removing makeup properly is more important than applying it. However, it's essential to minimize friction to protect the skin barrier. Instead of using cleansing wipes or cotton pads that can cause irritation, opt for gentle cleansing oils, balms, or milks. Use minimal pressure when massaging the skin and roll gently to remove impurities. Keep the cleansing time under one minute to reduce unnecessary friction.

1. BANILA CO Clean It Zero Ceramide Cleansing Balm 100ml

2. MIMU MIMU Heating Calming i.n.g Cleansing Oil 200ml

3. ROUND LAB 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Milk 200ml

STEP 2 Nourishing the Skin for a Fresh Morning Glow

Exfoliating to Improve Skincare Absorption
Exfoliating at night is more effective as the skin needs time to recover. Removing dead skin cells right before makeup can cause it to lift easily. Therefore, use products containing AHA, BHA, or PHA in the evening to gently exfoliate, and follow up with a deeply hydrating cream or mask to protect the skin.

1. MEDI-PEEL Phyto Cica-nol B5 AHA BHA Vitamin Calming Peeling Gel 120ml

2. P.CALM Cato Cream 80ml

3. AROCELL Super Collagen Mask Sheet 43g x 8P

Protecting and Restoring Skin While Sleeping
At night, the epidermis undergoes active cell regeneration, making it the best time for skincare absorption. Functional skincare products are highly effective at this time, with retinol being a key ingredient. Retinol accelerates epidermal regeneration, smooths skin texture, and boosts collagen production in the dermis, helping to improve wrinkles and create flawless skin for better makeup application.

1. goodal Black Carrot Vita-A Retinol Firming Cream 50ml

2. cepoLAB Biogenic Essence 90% 155ml

3. THE WHOO Royal Regina Energetic Recharging Cream 50ml

Building a Strong Base Before Makeup

STEP 3 Boosting Hydration for Better Makeup Adherence

Locking in Moisture to Prevent Inner Dryness
Replenishing hydration after cleansing is the key to achieving makeup-ready skin. Apply a lightweight, watery toner or first essence multiple times to hydrate the skin thoroughly. If additional nourishment is needed, follow up with a serum that absorbs well without leaving a greasy residue.

1. ISOI Moisture Dr. Toner 130ml

2. bhab SLOWCHAGA Hydra Calm Face Eye Serum 50ml

3. reii reii Gold Rice Energy Softening Essence 80ml

Creating a Hydration Barrier to Prevent Moisture Loss
Once the serum is about 80% absorbed, apply a cream to lock in moisture. Choose a cream with ingredients like ceramides, squalane, or panthenol to strengthen the skin barrier and prevent water loss. However, avoid overapplying cream or using overly rich products, as excess oil can reduce makeup adherence.

1. HYGGEE All-In-One Cream 80ml

2. primera Organience Barrier Repair Hydration Cream Emulsion 160ml

3. bhab SLOWCHAGA Water Fit Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++ 50ml

STEP 4 Creating a Smooth and Firm Skin Texture Before Makeup

Cooling the Skin and Boosting Hydration for a Glowing Finish
Lowering skin temperature is essential for smooth makeup application. When the skin is too warm, it loses moisture quickly, leading to dryness and flakiness. To prevent this, apply hydrating pads to areas where heat is concentrated to soothe and soften the skin. Then, use a moisture-rich prep base to smooth out the skin texture, applying it from the center of the face outward.