Makeup for beginners: a simple step-by-step everyday look

You do not need many products to look polished. Learn a simple 8-step everyday look, get your shades right, and build from there.

An everyday look in 8 steps

  1. Prep your skin: Cleanse, moisturise and apply sunscreen. Let it settle for 5 minutes.
  2. Even out skin tone: Use a tinted moisturiser, BB cream or a thin layer of foundation. Blend outwards from the centre of the face.
  3. Conceal only where needed: Dab concealer under the eyes, around the nose and on spots. Tap to blend.
  4. Set lightly: Press a little powder on the T-zone to control shine, especially in humid weather.
  5. Define brows: Fill gaps with a brow pencil in short strokes, then brush through.
  6. Eyes: kajal and mascara: Smudge kajal along the upper lash line, curl lashes and apply one coat of mascara.
  7. Add warmth: Smile and blend blush on the apples of your cheeks, upwards towards the ears.
  8. Finish with lips: A tinted balm or a nude lipstick one shade deeper than your lips.

Finding your foundation shade

Test shades on your jawline in daylight, not on your hand. The right shade disappears into your skin. Also check your undertone: warm skin looks best with golden shades, cool skin with pink shades, and neutral skin with something in between.

B4GLOW reads your skin tone from a selfie and suggests colours that suit you, which makes picking shades easier. Free and private.

Beginner makeup kit list

  • Sunscreen and a light moisturiser.
  • BB cream, tinted moisturiser or foundation in your shade.
  • Concealer.
  • Translucent powder.
  • Brow pencil.
  • Kajal or eyeliner and mascara.
  • Cream or powder blush.
  • Nude lipstick or tinted lip balm.
  • A blending sponge and two brushes: one for powder, one for blush.

Wash brushes and sponges every week. Dirty tools cause breakouts.

Common beginner mistakes

  • Choosing a foundation shade that is too light.
  • Applying too much powder, which looks cakey.
  • Skipping blending at the jaw and hairline.
  • Sleeping in makeup.

Frequently asked questions

What is the first makeup product a beginner should buy?

Start with sunscreen, a tinted moisturiser or BB cream, kajal and a lip tint. These cover most everyday looks.

How do I stop makeup from melting in summer?

Use a gel moisturiser, a light base, powder on the T-zone and a setting spray. Fewer layers last longer in heat.

Can I learn makeup professionally?

Yes. ArtZee lists hands-on makeup trainings by verified artists near you.