6.1 Skin preparation

Sanitisation

Skin preparation is absolutely essential when applying makeup. You might be tempted to go straight into priming, but you should never skip the skin preparation steps. There are three main steps for skin preparation:

During each step of the skin preparation process, you have an opportunity to clearly identify the clients face, eye, brow and lip shape without having to pull out the measuring tape! As you are applying each product, you can not only view their features closely, but you can also feel them. When working product in with your hands, you will also be able to identify any contraindications such as dry patches, scarring or blemishes. If you do identify contraindications, remember to discuss this with your client.

Makeup removal

When booking appointments, you should always request that your clients arrive without makeup; however, this is not always possible. If your client has just come from work, they may have makeup on, so you should ensure that you have makeup remover in your kit just in case. There are lots of makeup removers on the market, and we will look at a few in more detail in a later module. In your kit, you should ensure that you have regular eye makeup remover for standard makeup removal and oil-free eye makeup remover to easily remove any waterproof products your client may still be wearing.

Cleansing

Even if your client arrives makeup-free, it is important to give the skin a cleanse. You can simply use a cotton round and micellar water to get rid of any dirt or excess oils that may have built up throughout the day. If you prefer, you can also use foam cleansers or cream cleansers.

Moisturising

Once the face is free of makeup and cleansed, the next step is to moisturise. As we covered earlier, the key to flawless makeup is hydrated and plump skin. Moisturising prior to makeup application ensures your foundation will blend and create even coverage. Make sure to choose your moisturiser to compliment your client’s skin type. It is very important to make sure you do not forget to thoroughly hydrate the under-eye area. We do, however, avoid moisturiser on the eyelid as it produces the most oil on the face. For clients with mature skin, opt for a richer moisturiser to restore hydration.

Did you know… exercise treats your skin to a healthy glow by boosting blood flow? When you sweat, toxins and dead skin cells are removed from the body, promoting new ones to grow. Now’s your chance to practice your new TikTok dance routine. Yes, even dancing can lead to healthier, brighter skin.

Your makeup application will always be better on clients who have healthy, hydrated and blemish-free skin. You can still create gorgeous looks on clients who have skin conditions, but it takes a little bit more skill and thinking with regard to product choice and placement. While it would be awesome if all of our clients had flawless skin from the get-go, this is never the reality! Effective skin preparation will help you to pre-empt any trouble spots you will need to manage.

In addition to this, finding out the client’s skincare routine is during the preparation steps might also provide you with useful information that can help you select the correct products. This might also present an opportunity for you to share your knowledge of the importance of skincare with your client. By you asking questions and sharing your knowledge, it will make you stand out from your competition in offering professional makeup services, and it demonstrates that you have an interest in their results. This open exchange of information will build rapport and trust with your client, which will likely result in repeat business and referrals.