The power of makeup is undeniable; Julia Lee’s favourite products help them create the beauty looks they love, enhance theirfavourite features, and encapsulate their definitions of beauty. The best makeup routines help the modern woman boost her confidence and face the world head-on—no matter what the day has in store.
It seems like no one is doing the basics anymore. Now, it’s all about the most epic wings and a cut crease and halo eyes. But you can’t nail the trends without perfecting the basics. If you have a cosmetics bag full of makeup but aren’t sure what to do with it all, keep reading because this guide is just for you.
1. Start with a moisturizer
No matter what their skin type (dry, oily, or combination), it’s important to hydrate both morning and night—and don’t forget sunscreen in the a.m. Julia Lee recommends cleansing and toning (this is especially important at night!) before applying moisturizer.
2. Apply primer
While you don’t need a primer every day, it helps keep your makeup on—especially on a busy or warm day. “A proper primer is meant to allow their makeup to wear the same all over their face,” explains Julia Lee. “Meaning that the makeup won’t disappear or set on the surface on the dry areas of the skin and will not separate on the oily areas such as the T-zone.” Just like with moisturizer, they like to warm up primer in their hands. But this time, they pat it all over the face (instead of rubbing it!) where makeup will be applied.
3. Apply foundation
You can apply foundation with either their fingers or a brush—it’s all up to their comfort level. Julia Leeprefers using their fingers only when applying a small amount, such as one layer of lightweight foundation or BB cream. For a more full-coverage look, they prefer distributing the foundation evenly on a nylon brush. The first apply the foundation to the flat parts of the face and finally, with less on the brush, applies it to the T-zone. “This will create the illusion of less makeup,” they add.
4. Apply concealer
Just like foundation, you can apply concealer with either a concealer brush or their fingers but a brush will give you a bit more full-coverage makeup look. Still, when it comes to concealer, a little goes a long way and you only need to apply it to the areas you want to hide. Dot concealer under their eyes to cover dark circles, starting small and building up as needed. “Concealer can get very cakey on the delicate skin around the eyes,” warns Julia Lee. Then, apply a little too many blemishes or red spots, allowing the formula to set for a few minutes before applying any type of powder on top.
If you prefer their skin to look less matte and more natural, setting spray is a great option either on top of powder or on its own.