Hi beauty! Maya here, your go-to beauty confidante at Fashion Weekly. Whether you're just stepping into the world of makeup or looking to refine your routine, this guide is your glow-up game plan. From skin prep to final spritz, I’m walking you through every step with pro tips, product must-haves, and a little beauty wisdom for 2025. Let’s get glowing.
The Basics of a Makeup Tutorial for Beginners
Makeup is more than just a brush and blush—it’s about understanding your face, skin type, and the products that work for you. If you're feeling overwhelmed by tutorials and product hauls, don't worry. We’re starting with the fundamentals so you can build your beauty confidence, one blend at a time.
Understanding Your Skin Type for Flawless Results
Before you even pick up a foundation, know your skin. Is it dry, oily, combination, or sensitive? Your skin type affects everything—from how makeup wears throughout the day to which formulas work best for you.
Maya's Tip: Do a patch test with new products and look for ingredients that complement your skin. Hydrated skin = happy makeup.
Must-Have Makeup Products for Beginners
You don’t need a 30-step routine or a million brushes. Start with the essentials:
- Primer
- Foundation or BB cream
- Concealer
- Neutral eyeshadow palette
- Mascara
- Eyebrow pencil or gel
- Blush
- Highlighter
- Lip balm or gloss
- Setting powder and spray
Keep it simple. Quality over quantity.
Skincare Before Makeup: Your Canvas Matters
Makeup sits better on prepped skin. A basic skincare routine helps create a smooth, hydrated base. Here's the pre-makeup ritual I swear by:
- Cleanser
- Toner or essence
- Moisturiser
- SPF (Yes, even if you're staying indoors!)
Maya's Note: Never skip SPF. Your future self will thank you.
How to Apply Makeup Step-by-Step
Let’s get into it, babe. Here’s the ultimate beginner-friendly breakdown:
Step 1: Prepping Your Face with Skincare
Start with a clean face and apply your skincare routine. Give products time to absorb before moving to makeup.
Step 2: Applying Foundation for a Seamless Base
Choose a formula that suits your skin type. Blend with a damp beauty sponge or brush for a natural finish.
Step 3: Concealing Like a Pro
Use a lightweight concealer under your eyes, around the nose, and on any blemishes. Tap it in—don’t rub.
Mastering the Art of Eye Makeup
Eye makeup can feel intimidating, but it’s all about practice and placement.
Step 4: Applying Eyeshadow for a Soft, Natural Look
Stick to neutral tones to start. Use a lighter shade across your lid and a slightly darker shade in your crease for depth.
Step 5: Getting the Most Out of Your Mascara
Wiggle the wand at the root of your lashes and pull upward. Two coats are perfect—no more, no less.
Eyebrow Basics for Beginners
Brows frame the face. Fill in sparse areas using short strokes and set with a clear or tinted gel.
Maya’s Tip: Don’t overpluck. Fluffy brows are still having their moment in 2025.
How to Elevate Your Look: Final Makeup Touches
Contouring and Highlighting 101
Use a cream or powder contour one shade darker than your foundation to define cheekbones and jawline. Highlight the high points of your face—cheekbones, brow bone, nose tip.
Why Setting Your Makeup Is Non-Negotiable
Use a translucent setting powder to reduce shine and keep makeup locked in place.
The Final Step: Setting Spray for Long-Lasting Wear
A few spritzes of setting spray melt everything together and give your skin that dewy, fresh finish.
Makeup Mistakes to Avoid (We've All Been There)
Overapplying Products
Less is more—especially with foundation and concealer. Build up slowly instead of caking it on.
Using the Wrong Shades
Your undertone matters. Test shades in natural light before committing.
Skipping Skincare
No amount of makeup can replace good skin prep. Treat your skin kindly.
Where to Find the Best Beginner Makeup Tutorials
TikTok and YouTube: Your Digital Beauty School
Short-form videos are perfect for learning techniques in bite-sized clips. Follow creators who explain their steps clearly.
Follow Trusted Makeup Artists
Find pros who focus on everyday looks, not just editorial styles.
Enrol in Online Beauty Courses
Websites like MasterClass, Udemy, and even beauty brand platforms offer fantastic beginner-friendly lessons.
Ready to start your beauty journey? Bookmark this guide, experiment with your look, and remember—makeup should feel fun, not stressful. You're already gorgeous. This is just the cherry on top.
Love & lipstick,
Maya
Beauty Editor, Fashion Weekly
