Guide

Makeup Basics for Beginners

Makeup doesn't have to be complicated. With a few basic products and techniques, you'll create a beautiful, natural look for every day.

8 min read Updated: 27. 12. 2024
Makeup Basics for Beginners

What Do You Need to Start?

You don't need dozens of products. For daily makeup, 5-7 basic products are enough. Quality is more important than quantity - invest in products you'll use every day.

Minimum kit for beginners

These products are enough:

1

Primer or moisturizer

2

Foundation or BB/CC cream

3

Under-eye concealer

4

Mascara

5

Lip balm or gloss

Best Products for Beginners 2024

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For Beginners Fit Me Matte + Poreless
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Fit Me Matte + Poreless

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Affordable foundation with matte finish. Minimizes pores, great for oily skin.

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Bestseller Radiant Creamy Concealer
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One of the most popular concealers. Medium to full coverage, brightening.

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Editor's Pick Lash Princess Mascara
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Lash Princess Mascara

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Viral mascara at amazing price. Lengthens and volumizes without clumping.

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Basic Products and Their Functions

Understand what each product is for.

Primer

Signs: Smooths skin, extends makeup wear. Optional but helpful.

Care: Apply after skincare, before foundation. Thin layer is enough.

Foundation

Signs: Evens skin tone, covers imperfections. Choose by coverage level.

Care: Light coverage for daily wear, fuller for evening. Test on jawline.

Concealer

Signs: Covers under-eye circles, blemishes, redness. Higher coverage than foundation.

Care: One shade lighter under eyes, exact shade match for blemishes.

Powder

Signs: Sets makeup, mattifies. Optional for dry skin.

Care: Lightly over T-zone. Avoid areas with fine lines.

Mascara

Signs: Enhances lashes, opens eyes. One of the most important products.

Care: Black is universal. Wiggle from roots to tips.

Daily Makeup Routine

Simple routine for natural daily look:

Prep your skin

Clean, moisturized skin is the foundation. Let skincare absorb 5 minutes before makeup.

Apply primer (optional)

Thin layer all over face or just on problem areas.

Apply foundation

From center of face outward. With brush, sponge, or fingers - whatever works for you.

Cover imperfections with concealer

Under eyes in inverted triangle shape, directly on blemishes.

Lightly powder

Just T-zone or entire face depending on skin type.

Add color to cheeks

Blush or bronzer on apples of cheeks. Less is more.

Define eyes with mascara

One or two coats. Wait between coats to dry.

Finish with lips

Balm, gloss, or light lipstick depending on mood.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Avoid these mistakes when you know what to watch for.

⚠ Wrong foundation shade

Test on jawline, not hand. Best lighting is natural daylight. Shade should blend with neck.

⚠ Too much product

Start with less and add. Easier to add than remove. Layer gradually.

✓ Neglected blending

Thorough blending is key to natural look. Take time on transitions.

✓ Wrong tools

Quality brushes and sponge make a difference. Don't need expensive, just good.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, it's not necessary. It helps with wear and smoothing, but good moisturizer often suffices.

Brushes for liquid products weekly, for powders monthly. Extends their life and prevents acne.

BB/CC creams have lighter coverage with skincare benefits. Foundation has higher coverage. BB/CC is enough for daily wear.

Mascara 3-6 months, liquid products 12 months, powders 2 years. Watch the open jar symbol.

Choose Your First Products

Browse our reviews and find products for beginners.