Whether you’re seeking beauty inspiration or asking, "What are the makeup essentials for beginners?", we’ve got you covered. We’re here to provide all the essential information on which basic makeup items every beginner needs and how to apply them.
Before diving into the latest TikTok and Instagram makeup trends, it's crucial to have the right tools at your disposal. Below, you’ll find our ultimate list of makeup basics and step-by-step instructions on how to use each product for stunning yet simple makeup looks.
Makeup for Beginners - The Essentials!
So, what makeup should a beginner buy? Check out our basic makeup steps of all the essentials any makeup beginner should need to kickstart their beauty love affair-
Makeup Products Name List Step by Step -
- PRIMER
- FOUNDATION
- CONCEALER
- EYEBROW GEL
- SHADOW PALETTE
- MASCARA
- EYELINER
- BRONZER/HIGHLIGHTER CONTOUR KIT
- LIP LINER
- LIPSTICK/LIP-GLOSS
Here we listed basic makeup products for you.
How to Apply Step by Step Makeup for Beginners?
Now that you’re set with your shopping list, let’s learn how to do makeup step by step for beginners. We’ve created this simple step-by-step makeup tutorial for beginners alongside our top recommendations for your brand-new kit.
Step 1 – Prime the Skin
A face primer is always applied as your first step, before proceeding with your foundation. Creating a smooth canvas for makeup application, primer helps to blur imperfections, and gives your foundation a seamless base to adhere to, so you can enjoy your makeup look all day long.
How to Apply Makeup Primer for Beginners?
After applying a generous amount of MOISTURIZER, dispense a couple of pumps into your fingertips and massage a light layer of PRIMER across your whole face.
Step 2 – Apply Foundation
Helping to even out the complexion, blur imperfections and create the ideal base for the rest of your makeup – a trusty FOUNDATION is essential in any makeup kit. Next, you need to decide which foundation to go for. Your SKIN TYPE will help you to determine what finish to choose.
For makeup beginners, we recommend opting for a sheer formula for a foolproof finish.
How to Apply Foundation for Beginners?
Some foundations can be applied using your fingertips to give a softer, more natural finish. If you’d prefer to opt for a makeup tool, why not reach for a BEAUTY SPONGE? Once you’ve distributed the product over your face using your fingertips, dampen the sponge and lightly tap the product in – you can always add more as needed.
Step 3 – Conceal
Next stop on our makeup for beginners list - concealer! This will help you to hide dark circles, blemishes, and any other imperfections that foundation may not fully cover. You can also use this to brighten the under-eye area to add more dimension to your look.
Note: Opt for your natural shade for concealing blemishes but opt for one 2-3 shades lighter to highlight or darker to contour.
How to Apply Concealer for Beginners?
Blemishes? If you simply want to camouflage a pimple, we recommend applying a small amount to the top of your hand and using a brush. It’s best to apply the product applicator directly to the spot, as this may transfer bacteria into your product and spread it across other areas of your face, so decant a small amount onto a clean hand instead. Brighten? If you want to achieve a more healthy-looking complexion and conceal dark circles, we’ve got some top tips for you.
Apply the concealer in an ‘upside down triangle’ shape under each eye, as well as adding some to the center of the forehead, down the bridge of the nose, and the middle of the chin. This will highlight the high points of the face and give you a natural, structured look.
Blend out by tapping a damp beauty sponge over the area for a seamless finish.
Step 4 – Eyebrow Gel
We believe that the power of a good brow can never be underestimated, it’s the best way to frame your eyes and add depth and fullness to sparse brows, BROW GEL gives structure and balance, so you can fake it ‘till you make it.
How to do Brows for Beginners?
If you’re as obsessed with the fluffy, full brow trend as we are, then it’s your lucky day, as this look is super easy to achieve with a good lick of TINTED BROW GEL. To use, simply brush through your brows in an upwards motion until you achieve your desired definition. If you do have sparse brows, don’t worry! You can always go in with a BROW PENCIL to fill in any small gaps, then set with gel.
Step 5 – Shadow Palette
A shadow palette is a great addition to any makeup bag. Adding color, depth, and dimension, eyeshadow enhances your eye shape and makes them stand out. Add your creative touch, whether that’s subtle and natural to bold and dramatic, use this step to express your personal style. Containing a selection of both matte and shimmery nudes, it’s equipped with all the shades you need to create simple, but versatile makeup looks.
How to Apply Eyeshadow for Beginners?
Before you rush into any colorful or smokey eye looks, make sure you know how to perfect your blending with neutral shades first. Start with a lighter shade and sweep across your whole eyelid. Follow this with a slightly darker shade halfway into your lash line, blending outwards to add definition to your eyes.
Step 6 – Mascara
MASCARA is a must in any makeup routine for beginners. Completing your eye makeup look, it works to open up the eyes, making them appear larger and more defined. Adding length, volume, and curl to your lashes, it’s the perfect finishing touch.
How to Apply Mascara for Beginners?
For lust-worthy lashes, apply a few coats of your chosen mascara to your top and bottom lashes to enhance your eyes. Want to take your eye makeup a little further? EYELINER can be one of the best ways to take your eyes from day-to-night. Discover our guide on how to master the art of winged liner.
Step 7 – Bronzer and Highlighter
A BRONZER and HIGHLIGHTER are essential in any makeup kit. Bronzer adds warmth and dimension to your face, creating a healthy, sun-kissed appearance, while highlighter, on the other hand, adds a luminous sheen to the high points of your face, enhancing your features and providing a radiant look.
How to Contour for Beginners?
Sweep bronzer under your cheekbones and down the sides of your nose for a naturally sun-kissed look. Then, buff a light layer of highlighter over the top, to create a gorgeous glow.
We recommend our PRO SCULPT AND GLOW PALETTE as both products are in one place, so it’ll save space in your makeup bag!
Step 8 – Lip Linear, Gloss and Lipstick
Lip products are essential for adding those finishing touches to your makeup look and defining that all-important pout. Giving color and definition to your makeup look, lip products come in various finishes, such as matte or glossy, to suit your personal style – they are also great for moisturizing and protecting your lips from dryness.
How to Apply Lip Liners for Beginners?
A lip liner will give your lip color some extra staying-power, while allowing you to define the shape of your lips. Our SATIN KISS LIP LINERS come in lots of different shades and have a beautifully buttery consistency for quick and effortless application. Choosing a lip liner shade that matches your lipstick and begin by outlining the natural shape of your lips, starting with the cupid’s bow and following the contours of your mouth. Use short, light strokes to prevent a harsh or unnatural look.
Expert Tip: If you want to give the illusion of fuller lips, choose a slightly darker shade than your lipstick and trace slightly above your natural line.
How to Apply Lipstick for Beginners?
A lipstick and liquid matte lipstick will add some extra pigment and shine to your pout, giving you that extra boost of confidence you need in your day. If you are looking for different shades for liquid matte lipstick explore a range of Shyr Beauty products!
Apply the product from the center of your upper lip, following the natural curve of your cupid’s bow. Then, move outward toward the corners of your mouth, being careful to stay within your lip line. Repeat this on your lower lip. Press your lips together gently to distribute the color evenly and use a tissue to blot any excess product.
Expert Tip: For a more precise application, you can use a lip brush to fill in any gaps or define the edges of your lips. So, now you know what the makeup essentials for beginners are, you can start building out your own beauty essentials list to create some show-stopping looks. Shop our huge range of makeup products today to find your new beauty faves.
Tips for Applying Makeup Like a Pro
To apply makeup like a pro, start with a clean canvas by washing and moisturizing your face. Apply a primer to even out your skin texture and extend makeup wear. Use a foundation that matches your skin tone, blending it well with a brush, sponge, or fingertips. Conceal any imperfections like blemishes or dark circles with a concealer. Set your foundation with a dusting of translucent powder to reduce shine.
Define your eyebrows with a pencil or powder, then apply eyeshadow with a base color over the lid, a darker shade in the crease, and a highlight under the brow bone. Add eyeliner along the lash line for extra definition and coat your lashes with mascara for volume and length.
Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and contour under your cheekbones for added dimension. Highlight the high points of your face, such as the cheekbones and nose, for a glowing effect. Perfect your lips by lining them and then applying lipstick or gloss. Finally, set your entire look with a setting spray to ensure it lasts all day.
Step by Step Makeup Routine FAQs
How Do I Choose the Right Foundation Shade for My Skin Tone?
To find the perfect foundation shade, test a few shades on your jawline and select the one that blends seamlessly into your skin. It's also helpful to consider your undertone—warm, cool, or neutral.
What Are the Essential Tools Needed for a Professional Makeup Application?
Essential tools include a foundation brush or sponge, concealer brush, powder brush, eyeshadow brushes, eyeliner, eyebrow pencil, blush brush, and a highlighter brush. Quality tools make a significant difference in achieving a flawless look.
How Can I Apply Liquid Matte Lipstick Without It Cracking?
For a smooth application of Shyr Beauty’s liquid matte lipstick, start by exfoliating your lips to remove any dead skin. Apply a hydrating lip balm, let it absorb, and then use a lip primer if desired. Apply the lipstick with a steady hand, allowing it to dry completely for a long-lasting, crack-free finish.
How Do I Start a Basic Makeup Routine?
To start a basic makeup routine, begin with cleansing and moisturizing your face. Apply primer for a smooth base, then use foundation or BB cream that matches your skin tone. Conceal any blemishes or dark circles, and set your base with a light layer of setting powder. Define your eyebrows with a pencil or powder, apply a neutral eyeshadow, and use eyeliner to accentuate your eyes. Add mascara to your lashes, a touch of blush to your cheeks, and finish with lipstick or lip gloss. For long-lasting makeup, use a setting spray. Practice regularly to perfect your routine.
What Makeup Should I Start With First?
As a beginner, focus on essential makeup products that are easy to use and versatile. Start with foundation or BB cream to even out your skin tone, followed by concealer to cover any imperfections. Set your base with a light setting powder and define your eyebrows using a pencil or powder. Opt for a neutral eyeshadow palette for easy blending and add definition with eyeliner. Finish your look with mascara to enhance your lashes, a touch of blush for color, and lipstick or lip gloss to complete your makeup. These basics provide a solid foundation for building your makeup skills.
What Is the Order of the Makeup Routine?
In a basic makeup routine, start with cleansing and moisturizing, then apply primer, followed by foundation or BB cream. Conceal any imperfections and set with powder. Define eyebrows, apply eyeshadow and eyeliner, then mascara. Add blush for color, and finish with lipstick or gloss.
What Are the Basic Makeup Items for Beginners?
In a basic makeup routine, start with cleansing and moisturizing, then apply primer, followed by foundation or BB cream. Conceal any imperfections and set with powder. Define eyebrows, apply eyeshadow and eyeliner, then mascara. Add blush for color, and finish with lipstick or gloss.
What Is the First Rule of Makeup?
The first rule of makeup is to prioritize skincare. Keeping your skin healthy and hydrated lays the foundation for a flawless makeup application. Start with a clean canvas by cleansing your face regularly, followed by moisturizing to keep it supple. Use sunscreen daily to protect against harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging. Proper skincare not only improves the longevity of your makeup but also enhances its overall appearance, ensuring a radiant and natural glow.
What Is Best for Simple Makeup?
For a simple makeup routine, focus on enhancing your natural features with minimal products. Begin with a tinted moisturizer or BB cream for light coverage and a natural finish. Conceal any blemishes or dark circles with a creamy concealer. Define your eyebrows with a brow pencil or powder for subtle framing. Sweep a neutral eyeshadow across your lids and add a touch of mascara to your lashes. Apply a sheer blush to add a healthy flush to your cheeks and finish with a tinted lip balm for a hint of color. This simple routine enhances your features while keeping your makeup effortless and fresh.
How to Correctly Apply Makeup?
To correctly apply makeup, start with clean, moisturized skin. Apply primer to create a smooth base, then blend foundation evenly across your face. Conceal any blemishes or dark circles with concealer. Define your eyebrows with a pencil or powder. Apply eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara to accentuate your eyes. Add blush to your cheeks for a healthy glow and finish with liquid matte lipstick or gel tints. Blend well and set with a light dusting of setting powder for a long-lasting finish. Practice and experiment to find techniques that work best for you.
How to Learn Makeup at Home?
To learn makeup at home, start by exploring online tutorials on platforms like YouTube or Instagram. Invest in quality makeup brushes and essential products such as foundation, concealer, eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, blush, and lipstick. Practice basic techniques like blending, contouring, and highlighting on yourself using different makeup looks as your guide. Experiment with different colors and styles to discover what suits you best. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; learning makeup is all about trial and error. Finally, practice regularly and take note of what works for you. With patience and persistence, you'll master the art of makeup application in no time.