Frequent makeup application and removal can place a burden on the skin. If not properly cared for, it may lead to issues such as dryness, dullness, or sensitivity over time. Therefore, proper skincare, especially before and after makeup, is crucial.

Pre-Makeup Skincare：

1. Cleansing: The Foundation of Skincare

No matter your skin type—oily, dry, combination, or sensitive—cleansing is the first step in any skincare routine. It effectively removes dirt, oil, residual makeup, and impurities, ensuring that subsequent skincare and makeup products absorb properly. Choose a facial cleanser suited to your skin type for a gentle yet thorough cleanse.

Dry skin: Use a hydrating cleanser with moisturizing ingredients.

Oily skin: Opt for an oil-control cleanser to reduce excess shine.

After cleansing, rinse your face with lukewarm water and gently pat it dry with a clean towel to avoid excessive friction.

2. Toner: Balancing Oil and Hydration

Applying toner after cleansing helps restore the skin’s moisture balance and provides extra hydration.

Dry skin: Choose a hydrating toner with hyaluronic acid or glycerin.

Oily skin: Use an oil-control toner that helps minimize pores and reduce shine, preventing makeup from looking greasy.

3. Serum: Lock in Moisture and Nourish the Skin

Serums are concentrated skincare products designed to address specific concerns. Depending on your skin needs, choose a serum that hydrates, brightens, or strengthens the skin barrier.

For dry skin: Use a serum with hyaluronic acid or ceramides for deep hydration.

For oily skin: Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy serum with niacinamide to control oil and refine pores.

4. Moisturizer: Sealing in Hydration and Creating a Protective Barrier

A good moisturizer locks in hydration and forms a barrier to protect the skin from external irritants.

Dry skin: Use a rich, nourishing moisturizer.

Oily/combination skin: Go for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to avoid excess shine.

5. Sunscreen: Shielding the Skin from UV Damage

Regardless of whether you wear makeup, sunscreen should always be a part of your skincare routine. Applying sunscreen before makeup helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type and apply it evenly over your face.

Post-Makeup Skincare：

1. Makeup Removal: Thorough Cleansing to Remove Residue

Proper makeup removal is essential to prevent clogged pores and skin issues like acne, blackheads, or irritation. Use a remover suited to your skin type, such as cleansing oil, micellar water, or cleansing balm, and ensure all traces of makeup are gone before washing your face.

For eye makeup, use a gentle eye and lip makeup remover to avoid tugging on the delicate skin around your eyes.

2. Deep Cleansing: Double Cleansing for a Fresh Face

Even after removing makeup, some residues may remain. Follow up with a gentle facial cleanser to ensure your skin is completely clean. This second cleansing step helps remove lingering dirt and oil, preparing your skin for further skincare.

3. Repair: Replenishing Hydration and Nutrients

After cleansing, replenish your skin with a serum that contains restorative ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C. These ingredients help repair the skin barrier and restore moisture lost during the makeup process.

4. Face Mask: Deep Nourishment and Soothing

If your skin feels dry, tight, or fatigued, apply a face mask to deeply hydrate and revitalize your complexion.

Hydrating masks for moisture replenishment

Soothing masks to calm irritated skin

Repair masks to strengthen the skin barrier

5. Night Cream: Overnight Repair and Protection

Finish your skincare routine with a nourishing night cream, which works overnight to repair and hydrate your skin. Compared to daytime moisturizers, night creams are typically richer and contain ingredients that support the skin’s natural regeneration process.

Conclusion

Both pre- and post-makeup skincare are essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. A well-structured routine—including proper cleansing, hydration, nourishment, and protection—can enhance makeup application while preventing skin damage over time.