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Sian Victoria © - YSL Yves Saint Laurent, Black Opium, Blur Primer & Lip perfector

Guide to Must-Have Beauty Products & Tips for Perfect Makeup

Getting your makeup to look flawless really starts with proper prep. Preparing your skin prior to applying makeup can really change the game when it comes to how it looks and how long it lasts.

In this guide, I’m going to show you the must-have products and steps to prep your skin, featuring things like primers, lip balms, exfoliators, and hydrating mists. Good prep is ideal for making your makeup last longer and gives you that smooth, polished look everyone wants.

No matter if your skin's dry, oily, or a mix of both, these steps will help you create a solid makeup base for any style. I’ll also share my thoughts on some cool YSL beauty products from their Ultimate Day-to-Night Collection that work really well with this makeup prep for that flawless finish.

1. Hydrating Cleanser

A hydrating cleanser is worth it for getting your skin ready for makeup. It washes away dirt, oil, and any yucky stuff while keeping your skin moisturised. Choose a cleanser that is suitable for your specific skin type, whether you prefer gel, foam, or cream. Just use warm water and give the cleanser a gentle massage onto your face in circular motions to really cleanse it well.

This sets you up with a smooth, clean base, so your other products can soak in better. A good hydrating cleanser makes your skin feel revitalised and prepared for the upcoming stages of your makeup application.

2. Exfoliating Toner or Peel Pads

Using an exfoliating toner or peel pads can really help smooth out your skin and clear up those pesky pores, making makeup go on nicer. These products gently slough off dead skin cells, which can brighten your complexion and even things out.

Just pick a formula that works for your skin type. If you have sensitive skin like me, you might want something milder, like lactic acid, and if your skin is on the oilier side, options with salicylic acid could be your best bet.

After cleansing, just apply it with a cotton pad or your fingertips, steering clear of your eyes. Using my preferred liquid exfoliants or physical scrubs regularly makes other skincare products work better because they help them soak in more easily. Just don’t forget to slap on a good moisturiser afterwards to keep your skin feeling balanced and healthy!

3. Lightweight Moisturiser

After you cleanse and tone your skin with a floral essence like rose water, it's a good idea to use a lightweight moisturiser. It gives your skin a great amount of hydration without it feeling thick or greasy, which is perfect if you plan to wear makeup.

When picking a moisturiser, go for one that matches your skin type, whether you’ve got dry, oily, or combo skin like me. Look for stuff like hyaluronic acid to keep you hydrated, glycerin to lock in moisture, and antioxidants for some extra protection. These ingredients work together to keep your skin smooth and hydrated.

For the best results with your foundation and makeup, slather on some moisturiser all over your face and neck, then give it a minute to soak in before moving on to the next step.

4. Facial SPF or Sunscreen Primer

Facial SPF or sunscreen primer is a must-have in your makeup routine. These products not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays but also give you a smooth surface for your makeup. The latest formulas mix sun protection with priming perks, making sure your makeup sticks better and lasts longer.

Look for a broad-spectrum SPF to guard against both UVA and UVB rays, and pick a formula that matches your skin type, such as a matte non-comedogenic one if you have an oily t-zone.

Plus, some of these SPF primers throw in extra skincare benefits like hydration or oil control, which makes them really handy. Using a facial SPF or sunscreen primer helps keep your skin healthy while ensuring your makeup stays looking great all day long.

5. Blurring Face Primer

Blurring face primers are awesome for getting your skin ready for makeup. Blurring primers are great for filling in fine lines and pores so your skin looks super smooth and flawless. The tip is to choose a primer that suits your skin type. If you have oily skin, go for a mattifying one, and if your skin is dry, pick a hydrating one.

Most of these blurring primers have silicone in them, which makes everything feel really smooth and helps your makeup go on effortlessly. Some of these even have extras like antioxidants or peptides that can help boost your skin over time. Plus, using a blurring primer keeps your skin nice and hydrated and gives you a great base for your foundation.

6. Lip Balm or Lip Perfector

Getting smooth, hydrated lips is ideal for pulling off that perfect makeup look, especially if you're into wearing lipstick or gloss. Start by giving your lips a little scrub to get rid of any dry skin, then slather on a good lip balm or perfector. These gems will keep your lips nice and moisturised, so they don’t end up chapped or flaky.

Look for ones that have stuff like shea butter or a favourite of mine, hyaluronic acid, to keep your lips looking good. If you want a touch of colour, tinted lip balms can give you a hint of shade along with some hydration. Adding this step to your routine makes sure your lips are always ready for whatever makeup vibe you’re going for.

7. Eye Cream or Eye Primer

Eye creams and eye primers are must-haves for nailing that perfect eye makeup look. Eye cream gives a boost of hydration to the delicate under-eye area, helping to tackle puffiness and fine lines. This makes it way easier to apply concealer later. Look out for ingredients like caffeine to help reduce puffiness, hyaluronic acid for some moisture, and peptides for anti-ageing benefits.

On the other hand, eye primers provide an even base for your eyelids, preventing eyeshadows from creasing and ensuring that colours appear more vibrant. Pick an eye primer that works well with your skin type, whether you need a mattifying or hydrating formula. When adding both an eye cream and an eye primer into your routine, you’ll achieve a smooth and long-lasting eye makeup application.

8. Hydrating Mists

Hydrating mists are a perfect way to kick off your makeup routine. They give your skin a nice boost of moisture and help you nail that dewy vibe. A bunch of popular mists have cool benefits like soothing your skin or making it look brighter. Look out for ones packed with awesome ingredients like aloe vera, rose water, or hyaluronic acid.

These guys can soothe irritated skin, hydrate you quickly, and really make your natural glow shine. Just spritz the mist evenly over your face, keeping the bottle a few inches away, to get a smooth layer. You can even use these mists throughout the day to touch up your makeup and keep your skin looking great. Adding this step can be seriously worthwhile.

9. Setting Spray (Pre-Foundation)

Using a setting spray before you put on your foundation can really add to how long your makeup lasts and how it looks overall. These sprays are designed to create a slightly tacky surface, which helps your foundation stick better and hold up throughout the day. Just pick a spray that matches your skin type, like one that hydrates if you have dry skin or controls facial oil if you’re more on the oily side.

To apply it, just hold the bottle around 8-10 inches from your face and spray it on evenly. Let it dry for a bit before you start with your foundation. This little step makes a big difference in getting a smooth finish and keeping your makeup in place, even when things get tough.

Sian Victoria © - YSL Yves Saint Laurent, Black Opium, Lip perfector & Lipstick

10. Facial Roller or Gua Sha Tool

Facial rollers and gua sha tools are awesome for giving your skin some love and are ideal for your makeup prep routine since they boost blood flow and help with puffiness. These tools can really get your lymphatic system working, which gives your face a more sculpted and lifted look.

Facial rollers, usually made of jade or rose quartz, are meant to be rolled on your skin in an upward motion, while gua sha tools are flat and designed to gently scrape your skin in certain patterns to ease muscle tension and get circulation going.

To use a facial roller, just start from the centre of your face and move it outwards and upwards. This not only helps with swelling but also gives your skin a nice glow. For the gua sha tool, just use a light hand and gently glide it along your face, following its natural shape. Both tools work even better when you pair them with a facial serum or oil, making it easier to smooth them over your skin and helping the product sink in.

If you use these tools regularly, you'll likely see a nice improvement in your skin's texture and tone, making them super helpful for getting that flawless makeup look.

11. Serums

Serums are a top player in your makeup routine because they’re packed with concentrated formulas that target specific skin concerns. Unlike moisturisers, serums are lighter and penetrate deeper, making them super effective at delivering those powerful ingredients your skin craves.

When choosing a serum, think about what your skin needs the most. If you want more hydration, look for ones with hyaluronic acid as it holds a ton of moisture! For brighter skin, vitamin C or niacinamide is fantastic for evening out your complexion and fading dark spots.

If you’re concerned about ageing, go for serums that have retinol or peptides to help smooth fine lines and improve skin elasticity. To use it, simply apply a few drops to clean, toned skin and lightly press it into your face with your fingertips. This helps the serum absorb better and preps your skin for the rest of your routine. The right serum can really improve how your makeup looks and stays on throughout the day!

12. Concealers

Concealers are essential for hiding imperfections and brightening up your face. Pick a concealer that’s either your exact skin tone or a bit lighter if you want to highlight. There are different types, like liquid, cream, and stick, each serving its own coverage needs.

For a more natural vibe, go for a lightweight, buildable formula that blends well with your foundation. To hide imperfections, consider using the skin tone colour correcting trick when tackling things like dark circles. For example, a peach or orange-toned concealer works wonders to cancel out those blue or purple shades. To cover blemishes or redness, a green-tinted concealer can really help tone down the red. Use a brush, sponge, or your fingers—whichever you like best for the area you’re focusing on.

Start with a little and layer it up if you need more coverage, blending the edges to keep it smooth. Setting your concealer with some translucent powder helps it last all day, keeping it from creasing and making it more durable. With the right tricks and products, concealers can really up your makeup game, giving you that flawless finish.

13. Foundation

When it comes to your makeup routine, foundation is like the base layer of a cake; it sets the tone for everything else. So, choosing the right formula and shade is key! Start by figuring out your skin type—are you oily, dry, a bit of both, or maybe sensitive?

If you have oily skin, look for oil-free or matte foundations to help control that shine. For those with drier skin, hydrating or dewy options can give you that extra moisture and a lovely glow. If you're dealing with a combo of skin types, try to find foundations that work well for both the oily and dry spots. And for sensitive skin, it’s best to stick with products that are hypoallergenic or fragrance-free.

Don’t forget about colour matching! Make sure to swipe a bit of foundation on your jawline or wrist to find a shade that seamlessly blends with your natural skin tone. When applying, you can use brushes, sponges, or even your fingers. Brushes give a super polished finish, while sponges help blend everything in for a more natural appearance. Your fingertips are great for a lighter application.

Start applying in the centre of your face and blend outwards to get even coverage and avoid any harsh lines. You can layer the foundation, beginning with a light layer and building up for more coverage if you need it. Make sure to blend well around your hairline and jawline so it all looks seamless. If you want your foundation to last longer and to cut down on shine, especially around the T-zone, set it with some translucent powder.

14. Tools and Accessories

Having the ideal makeup tools and accessories can totally make or break your look. Quality brushes are essential for everything, from foundation to eyeshadow. If you're working with liquids or creams, go for synthetic brushes; they do the trick! Natural hair brushes are better for powders. Look for brushes with soft, dense bristles, as they help with blending and create that smooth finish we all want. And let’s not forget sponges; they’re super handy for applying foundation, blending concealer, or even using cream blush and contour. Just remember to dampen your sponge first for that flawless, airbrushed makeup look.

Other accessories can really help too! Eyelash curlers can brighten up your eyes and make your lashes stand out, while tweezers are a must for perfecting your brows. And don’t underestimate makeup puffs or powder brushes—they’re perfect for applying translucent powder to set your look and keep it fresh all day. A good mirror with decent lighting is key, too; you need to be able to see what you’re doing and easily fix any little mishaps.

Keeping your brushes and sponges clean is super important for hygiene and how well they perform. A gentle brush cleaner or baby shampoo works wonders to wash out all the makeup and germs. Storing your tools properly, like in brush holders or makeup bags, not only keeps things organised but also extends their lifespan. Investing a little time and money into these essentials can seriously up your makeup game!

15. Scent or Fragrance Layering

Scent layering is a really fun way to switch up your beauty routine and make your vibe pop! It’s all about mixing different scented products to come up with your own signature fragrance. Start with a subtle body wash or soap in the shower, then grab a matching lotion or oil afterwards to seal in moisture and add another layer of that delicious scent.

For a longer-lasting fragrance, grab a perfume or eau de toilette that goes well with those earlier layers. Just make sure the scents blend nicely and aren’t too overpowering together. Spritz your chosen fragrance on your pulse areas, such as your wrists, neck, and the spots behind your ears, where the skin is warmer, helping the scent last throughout the day.

A quick spray of hair perfume can really add that little something extra. When layering different scents, you can come up with a unique fragrance that makes you feel special. Not only does it give your mood a boost, but it also helps you leave a memorable mark on those around you.

YSL Beauty Review

When summer hits, I love keeping things simple, especially when I'm doing my makeup routine to achieve that sun-kissed glow. I prefer using a nude eyeshadow palette, coral lipstick, and enhancing my lashes with a swipe of mascara, finishing off with a hint of contouring.

During the hot summer days, the last thing my face wants is a thick layer of makeup that can easily turn into a sweaty mess throughout the day. However, not everyone is lucky enough to have flawless skin — I definitely am not.

That’s why I was thrilled to receive a complimentary pack of travel minis from Yves Saint Laurent, which includes a blur primer, lip perfector, lipstick, and an incredible day-to-night duo fragrance. These will be perfect for those special summer occasions.

YSL Touche Eclat Blur Primer

The blur primer has a clear formula, making it suitable for all skin tones. It contains lovely gold glitter particles and feels delightful when applied to the skin. A small amount goes a long way; initially, it may feel greasy, but once absorbed, it creates a soft, non-oily base for makeup application.

Overall, the primer leaves the skin feeling nourished and effectively prepares it for makeup, helping it stay in place. However, I didn’t notice a significant reduction in the appearance of my pores.

I do have relatively large pores on my cheeks, so I don’t expect a primer to dramatically change the orange peel appearance. Keep in mind that everyone's skin texture is different; what works well for one person may not work as well for someone with another skin type.

YSL Lip Perfector

I have a bit of an obsession with keeping my lips moisturised and soft. I’m constantly applying lip balm because I can't stand the feeling of dry, cracked lips. I carry a lip balm in every bag I use, and I have one on my desk and on my bedside table.

Naturally, I was excited to try the YSL Lip Perfector. This product is a 3-in-1 multitasker. It contains shea butter to nourish the lips like a traditional lip balm, salicylic acid to gently exfoliate and remove flaky skin, and annatto fruit extract to enhance and reveal the lip colour.

The formula has a clear, thick consistency that glides smoothly onto the lips, creating a soft, moisturised feel. I apply it with my finger and find that dry skin is easily removed when I use a circular motion. Overall, it leaves my lips feeling soft and hydrated, removes flakes, and can be worn alone for a natural nude lip look.

YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick

Pink and coral shades are ideal for summer, and the rosy coral shade in No. 52 perfectly captures that effortless summer makeup look. This highly pigmented colour also contains SPF 15, which is essential for protecting your lips during hot summer days.

I’ve found that using the YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in combination with the YSL Lip Perfector creates a beautifully intense colour with a plump lip appearance. It features a satin finish and only requires a slight touch-up throughout the day. I also love how the luxurious gold YSL packaging doubles as a mirror, making it convenient for touch-ups on the go.

YSL Black Opium Eau De Parfum

Now for the must-have beauty trend, YSL Black Opium Eau De Parfum. This is such a great scent for a warm summer night. It kicks off with bright notes of pink pepper and pear, then moves into heart notes of jasmine tea and orange blossom, and finishes with cosy base notes of coffee, patchouli, and vanilla.

I've really fallen for this fragrance over the last few months. I've tested a bunch of different samples, and while I've liked a few others, this one is definitely my favourite. It has this floral and sultry vibe that's dark and mysterious at the same time.

YSL Black Opium Floral Shock Eau De Parfum

The new YSL Black Opium Floral Shock Eau de Parfum is the ultimate summer fragrance, featuring a blend of fruity and floral notes. The top notes include freesia accord, pear accord, bergamot essence, and lemon essence. The heart notes consist of gardenia accord and orange blossom accord, while the base notes are made up of coffee accord and white musk.

I live with two women, and I often make the mistake of showcasing all my complimentary beauty products to them. Naturally, they love this YSL fragrance, which means I've had to keep it well hidden since I'm quickly running out.

These two scents are perfect for transitioning from day to night this summer, and I especially love the glam rock glitter frosted bottle.

To conclude

Overall, if you want your makeup to look great and last all day, it really comes down to a few key steps. Start with a good hydrating cleanser, then use an exfoliating toner to smooth texture and set your skin up right. Moisturising and sun protection are a must, and make sure to use face and eye primers to create that smooth base. Keeping your skin and lips hydrated with mists and balms is a total game-changer, too.

Using tools like facial rollers can really boost circulation and help reduce puffiness, while serums can target specific skin issues. When it’s time to do your makeup, grab a top-notch concealer and foundation for that flawless look. And don’t forget to have fun with a little scent layering with body oils and perfumes at the end! Every step is key to making your makeup routine enjoyable and making sure you look your best. With these essentials, you're all set for a stunning makeup look that lasts!

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15 Best Makeup Prep Essentials for a Flawless Skin Finish