If you’re new to the makeup game and wondering where to start, no worries! Learning how to build a beginner friendly makeup routine can be exciting, and let’s be real, slightly overwhelming. Whether you’re going for a fresh-faced look or something a little more glam, we’re here to break it all down. This makeup routine has been crafted specifically to celebrate the gorgeous spectrum of black skin tones with makeup essentials, step-by-step tips, and some amazing product recommendations. Let’s dive in!
1. Skin first, makeup second
Glossier said it best — and no lies were told. Before we even think about makeup, remember the golden rule: good skin is the best base. So, start by cleansing, toning, and moisturizing your skin. A well-prepped face is the foundation of any makeup look as it ensures that your makeup applies smoothly and lasts longer.
Cleanse
Wash your face with a gentle, universal cleanser such as the Nuxe Reve De Miel Face Cleansing And Make-up Removing Gel. It’s great for all skin types and doubles as a makeup remover, too.
Tone
While toners are often overlooked, they are actually very important elements to any skincare routine. Using a toner directly after cleansing can aid in removing any leftover dirt or residue that was not picked up by your cleanser and refine your skins texture. The Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner is luxury in a bottle and softens your skin in preparation for your next step.
Moisturise
Dry skin is the crux of ashy makeup, and there is nothing cute about that. Mac’s Hyper Real SkinCanvas Balm Moisturizing Cream is a lightweight formula that easily absorbs into the skin to provide a smooth canvas while protecting the skins barrier.
2. Prime time, baby!
Think of primer as the magic potion that helps your makeup last longer and prevents it from slipping and sliding. It smooths out your skin’s texture in preparation for foundation. Silicone primers, in particular, provide a HD finish due to their ability to glide effortlessly onto the skin, allowing for a seamless makeup application. The Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer instantly minimizes the look of pores, fine lines, and even wrinkles upon application.
3. Lay the foundation: find your perfect shade
Here comes the fun part! Now that your skin is prepped, let’s move on to creating a flawless base. Finding the right foundation shade for black skin has historically been tricky, but thankfully, brands have finally expanded their shade ranges. Here’s how to nail it…
When choosing a foundation, you want to match it to both your undertone and your skin shade. For black skin, common undertones are warm (yellow, golden), neutral, or cool (red, blue). The easiest way to figure out your undertone? Look at the veins on your wrist. If they’re green, you’ve got warm undertones. If they’re blue, you’re cool. Can’t decide? You’re likely neutral. When swatching different shades, test the foundation on your jawline or cheek, and see how it blends into your neck. Although the options are endless, there are a few brands that have hit the nail on the head when it comes to shade range, undertone, and finish:
Fenty Beauty’s Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation offers a broad spectrum of shades and is perfect for oily or combination skin. It leaves a matte finish, giving you smooth, flawless coverage. If you prefer a more luminous look, Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation is a lightweight foundation that gives you a subtle glow while feeling like second skin. All skin types, including acne and redness-prone, can benefit from Shiseido’s Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation, as its weightless texture offers a blurring effect for a natural, semi-mate finish.
4. Get lit with concealer
Concealer is your secret weapon to brighten up your face and hide any dark spots, under-eye circles, or blemishes. It’s also great for highlighting specific areas of your face (think: the center of your forehead, under your eyes, and your chin). When selecting a concealer, focus on coverage and consistency. Two honourable mentions are the Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Luminous Matte Concealer as this cult favourite is known for its full coverage and crease-free finish, which works wonders on dark spots or under-eye circles. Similarly, the super blendability of the Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Concealer makes it perfect for any makeup look, and great for beginners.
5. Set it and forget it
Once your foundation and concealer have been applied, set your face with powder to avoid creasing or shine. Focus on areas where your skin tends to get oily, like your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Setting with powder locks your foundation and concealer in place, ensuring you stay shine-free throughout the day. At this stage, a translucent powder is best so as to not interrupt the shade or finish of your foundation and concealer. Laura Mercier’s Translucent Loose Setting Powder is perfect because it is finely-milled and settles seamlessly into makeup, with a non-ashy, flashback-free finish. The Ultra-Blur, a talc-free version for dry skin is also available. Win, win!
6. Shape it till’ you make it!
Your eyebrows shape your entire face, and well-groomed brows can elevate your makeup look. Start by gently filling any sparse areas with a precise pencil such as the Refy Brow Pencil and build with hair-like strokes until you have achieved your desired look. Keep playing around with different brow shapes until you find one that suits you. Then, flip the pencil to use the spoolie brush side and blend the product out for a softer, natural look. Remember, patience is key! Your eyebrows are sisters, not twins, so it’s okay if they are not completely identical.
7. It’s all in the eyes
If you have never used eyeshadow, it’s good to start with neutral shades like browns, golds, and bronzes, which look stunning on black skin. Danessa Myricks Defining Neutrals Groundwork Palette offers a stunning collection of powdery shades that pop on deeper skin tones. Apply a light shade all over the lid and a darker shade in your crease to add definition.
PRO TIP!
As this is a beginner friendly makeup routine, it is important to pace yourself as eyeshadow is often the hardest part to master. At this stage, YouTube tutorials are your best friend. Sometimes, the best way to learn is to watch the pro’s. We are currently loving KKAÖ by KKB and Hannah London.
8. Line and define
Want to make your eyes pop? Eyeliner can help define your lash line, and mascara will give you that extra “wow” factor. For a beginner, a simple black or brown liner is all you need. Kat Von D’s Tattoo Eyeliner Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner is easy to work with and has great colour payoff. Finish off the eyes with Benefit’s They’re Real Mascara as it provides a clump-free, elongated look to imitate eyelash extensions.
9. Soft flush, strong shine
Blush and highlighter bring warmth and dimension to your face. Rich tones like the berries, plums, deep roses, and oranges are your go-to’s and compliment black skin beautifully. Patrick Ta’s Major Headlines Double Creme & Powder Blush Duo boasts an array of stunning shades that flatter black skin, and the combination of cream and powder allows for experimentation with different finishes. Top this off with a few drops of Rare Beauty’s Positive Light Liquid Luminizer on the highest point of your cheekbones and you’re good to go!
10. Go bold or go bare
Pucker up! Whether you’re into bold, matte colors, or glossy, nude shades, don’t be afraid to experiment. For everyday wear, a nude or soft pink is perfect, but for nights out, reach for a bold red or deep berry shade. Mented Cosmetics Semi-Matte Lipsticks boast the perfect selection of shades that have been designed specifically for women of color. Top it off with Dior’s Lip Addict Glow Oil for a super sultry, magnifying glossy effect.
PRO TIP!
Moisturize, moisturize, and moisturize some more! Dry lips are an absolute pain, and matte lipsticks can further exacerbate this. Hydrate your lips for better color payoff and longevity of your lip products.
11. Lock it all in
To keep all your hard work in place, use a setting spray to lock your makeup in for the day. A good setting spray will help your makeup last longer and prevent it from melting or fading. Setting sprays also help the different textures of your makeup to merge together for a seamless finish. For up to 16 hours of wear, spritz Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray all over your face, an arms length away. And voila!
And when it’s all curated and done…
Starting a makeup routine might seem overwhelming, but with the right products and a bit of practice, you’ll be a pro in no time! Remember, makeup is a form of self-expression and enhancement — it’s not about covering up, but instead, celebrating what makes you unique. Black skin is beautiful in all its shades, and your makeup routine should reflect that. Don’t be afraid to experiment, play with colors, and most importantly, have fun with it!
Whether you’re creating a simple everyday look or stepping it up for a special occasion, this beginner friendly makeup routine will help you build confidence and embrace your beauty. And, of course, always choose products that cater to your skin tone and texture to ensure you achieve flawless results every time.
