What do you put on top of foundation makeup?

Posted on June 25 2019

Concealer after foundation? Blush before eyebrows? The order in which you should apply your makeup is a controversial topic , largely due to the differing opinions on what products should land on your face first.

But never fear—we’re breaking down the exact sequence for putting on makeup to help take out some of the guesswork and have you looking flawless. The general rule of thumb? After going through your skincare routine (check out the correct order to apply your skincare products) consider the texture and staying power of what you put on next, and don’t be afraid to slightly alter the process to make it work for you.

Check out our step-by-step application guide—along with some of our favorite beauty products—below.

Step 1: Primer & Color Corrector

Using a primer and/or color corrector is optional, but if you choose to use either (or both) it should be done directly after your skincare routine. This will smooth and even out your complexion and help product stay put longer.

Step 2: Foundation

Foundation acts as a foundation (no pun intended) on which to build your other makeup. Look for a formula that will enhance your skin type and tone—this will help set your other products properly. if you have even skin, you can skip foundation entirely and dab a few spots of concealer on your trouble spots instead.

Step 3: Concealer

Always use concealer after putting on foundation to avoid using more product than necessary and to stop your skin from appearing cakey. Dab our buildable Cream Concealer on the spots that need more coverage (under your eyes, over blemishes, etc.), and then soften the edges with a Blender Brush.

Step 4: Blush, Bronzer, & Highlighter

To give your complexion a finishing touch, add a pop of color on your cheeks with blush, get your glow on with a shimmering highlighter, and/or try your hand at contouring with our Mineral Bronzer. Layer creams under powders if you choose to use both.

Step 5: Eyeshadow, Eyeliner, & Mascara

Coated eyelashes can get in the way when you’re trying to nail winged liner, so swipe on your mascara after applying your eyeshadow and eyeliner.

Step 6: Eyebrows

The intensity of your eyebrows should complement the rest of your makeup, so shape and fill your arches with our Cream Brow Pencil to match your entire look. (Pro tip: Feel free to interchange Steps 4, 5, & 6 depending on your preference)

Step 7: Lips

Because it's the easiest to reapply as the day wears on, applying your lip color is always a good final step in your makeup routine, whether you’re simply dabbing on some tinted gloss or doing a full look with liner and lipstick.

Step 8: Setting Spray or Powder

You can use one, both, or neither, but these two products (try our Sea Mineral Hydra Mist or Mosaic Illuminator) are made to help your makeup last longer and look better as the day goes on—apply them right before you head out the door.

5. Concealer

Concealer follows foundation because when you apply it this way, you need less of it. Concealer is great for brightening up certain areas of your face and adding extra coverage to areas that need it, like blemishes or dark circles. You can also use to contour your face and add dimension. The L’Oréal Paris True Match Radiant Serum Concealer is a great choice for your makeup routine; it offers medium coverage that neutralizes dark circles and visibly depuffs under-eye bags.

6. Bronzer, Highlighter and Blush

Bronzer, highlighter and blush are like the cherry on top for your base and really take your makeup to the next level. You don’t need to use all three but the best time to apply them is after you’ve perfected your base and concealer. Applying bronzer like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24H Fresh Wear Soft Matte Bronzer (this one works to bronze or contour), is a great way to add some sun-kissed color and depth to your complexion. 

After bronzer comes blush, and it’s a great way to add some flush and vibrancy to your skin. Try the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Up to 24H Fresh Wear Soft Matte Blush; it has a long-wearing formula that resists sweat, transfer and smudging. Plus, the soft matte finish is easy to blend, pigmented, and doesn’t emphasize texture. 

Finish everything off by adding some shimmery highlighter to your cheekbones and the high points of your face. If you’re opting for a liquid formula, like the L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer, use the warmth of your fingers to lightly tap it into the skin. If you’re using powder formula, like the L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glow Nude Highlighter Palette, use a fluffy brush to lightly blend it onto the skin.