The secret to makeup that looks like skin is not the foundation. It is the skin underneath it. When your skin is calm and hydrated, makeup goes on thinner, looks more natural and lasts longer. Here is the checklist I give every client before a bridal or event appointment.
Why skin prep matters more than foundation
Makeup sits on top of whatever your skin is doing that day. Dry patches make foundation cling. Irritation shows through as redness. A brand-new product can trigger a breakout right when you least want one. Good prep means I can use less product, which is the whole point of natural makeup.
The best prep is consistent and a little boring. You are not trying to transform your skin in a week. You are trying to keep it calm.
Four weeks before
- Settle into a simple routine. Cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen, every day.
- Book any facial now, so your last one can happen at least two weeks before the big day.
- Start drinking more water, and notice which foods or habits make your skin act up.
One to two weeks before
- Your last facial, and only a treatment you have had before. New treatments can cause redness or purging.
- No peels, strong exfoliants or new actives. If retinol or acids aren't already part of your routine, now isn't the time to start them.
- Waxing or threading of the face should be done well before the day so any redness has time to settle.
The week before
- Brows shaped or tinted three to five days before, not the day before.
- No new products at all. Not even the exciting one in your basket.
- Gentle exfoliation once, early in the week, if it is already part of your routine.
- Sleep and water. Truly the least glamorous and most effective tips on this list.
The day before
- Keep your routine exactly the same.
- Go easy on salt and alcohol, which can make skin and eyes look puffy.
- Lay out your outfit, jewellery and anything you are bringing to the appointment.
The morning of your appointment
- Arrive with a clean, moisturised face. No makeup and no heavy face oils.
- Use lip balm, so lip colour goes on smoothly.
- Wear a button-up or loose top, so you can change without touching your face.
- If you wear sunscreen, choose one you have worn under makeup before. Some mineral sunscreens can leave a white cast in flash photos.
- Tell me about any changes: a new breakout, irritation, or anything you have reacted to.
What I do on the day
Every appointment starts with skin. I cleanse if needed, hydrate, and prep for your skin type before any makeup goes on. Dry areas get extra moisture, oily areas get lightweight oil control, and anything that needs calming gets calming. Then the base goes on in thin layers, only where you need it. That is how we get to your skin, but better.
If you are getting ready for a wedding, read my guide to natural bridal makeup in Simcoe County or see the bridal makeup packages. Bringing your own products? Here is what to bring to a BYOM appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Should I wear moisturiser to my makeup appointment?
Yes. Arrive with a clean face and your usual light moisturiser, with no makeup and no heavy oils. I will add any extra prep your skin needs on the day.
When should I get a facial before my wedding?
Book your last facial at least 1 to 2 weeks before the wedding, and only a treatment you have had before. New treatments can cause redness or breakouts right when you least want them.
Can I get my eyebrows done before a makeup appointment?
Yes, but do it 3 to 5 days before, not the day before, so any redness has time to settle.
