Skincare Prep (The Secret to Smooth, Acne-Safe Makeup)

Before any makeup touches my face, I always start with skincare—because good makeup starts with happy skin!

Step 1: Cleanse

I begin with a gentle morning cleanse (you can check out my full morning skincare routine here) to start the day.

Step 2: Brightening Serum

Next, I apply the Equalberry Brightening Serum. It helps with post-acne marks and adds a glow that shows through my makeup.

Wait 60 seconds before moving to the next step to let the serum absorb properly.

Step 3: Lightweight Moisturizer

Then I use the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Moisturizer (for oily to combination skin). It hydrates without feeling greasy and creates the perfect base for makeup.

Let it absorb for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Sunscreen

I follow with La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 50+, my holy grail sunscreen. It protects my skin and gives a dewy finish.

Wait at least 2–3 minutes before applying makeup. Letting each product settle helps prevent pilling and ensures a smooth application.

The Natural, Glowy Look (My Everyday Makeup)

On most days, I like to keep things light and breathable, to allow my skin to heal faster. Here's how I get a soft, fresh look that covers just enough—but still lets my real skin shine through.

Step 1: Targeted Concealer

I use the acne-safe, Too Faced Born This Way Concealer in Light Beige only where I need it—under the eyes, on post-blemish marks, or areas of redness. Instead of layering it everywhere, I let my skin breathe.

Tip: I've leaned that if you let the concealer sit for about a minute before blending, that increases coverage without needing more product.

Step 2: Lips – Color + Volume

I start with Burt's Bees Pomegranate Tinted Lip Balm for a hydrating hint of color. Then I define and slightly overline my lips using the Maybelline Lifter Lip Liner in “Peaking”—a gorgeous, natural blush-toned shade with hyaluronic acid and jojoba oil. It gives the illusion of fuller lips while staying super soft.

Step 3: Blend + Even

I use a foundation brush to blend the concealer into the skin, focusing only on spots that need correction. If the rest of my skin looks good, I don’t touch it—why cover healthy skin if it’s glowing on its own?

Step 4: Eyes – (My Favorite Part)

This is where the magic happens.

I combine two mascaras to get that full, flirty lash look that people always ask me about. Here's my not-so-secret anymore combo:

• Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

• L’Oréal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara

Together, they give serious volume, lift, and that “are those falsies?” effect—without clumps or flaking.

Step 5: Eyeliner

To make my eyes pop, I line my lower waterline with black eyeliner. Since my features are deeper, this adds the perfect intensity and enhances my natural eye shape.

Step 6: Optional Flush

If I want a little more life in my face, I apply SAIE Dew Blush Liquid Cream Blush on my cheekbones and blend upward toward the hairline. It gives a beautiful, dewy flush and melts right into the skin.

Step 7: Set + Refresh

To lock everything in, I dust a light layer of the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder over the areas I concealed.

Then, for a fresh finish, I mist Avène Thermal Spring Water all over my face. It helps everything melt together and gives me that “skin but better” glow (It also helps calm the skin!).

Final Thoughts:

Less Is More, Always

Lately, I’ve been loving the idea that less makeup can actually make me feel more beautiful. A little targeted coverage, a bold lash, and fresh, glowy skin—it’s the perfect balance that makes me feel confident and like my most natural self.

Note: These are the acne-safe makeup products I personally use and trust. Of course, everyone’s skin is different, so it’s always a good idea to check if your products are labeled non-comedogenic, oil-free, or suitable for sensitive skin. Being careful with what you put on your face can really make a difference in your skin's health.

That said, when I want to feel powerful, glam, and ready for a special event, I go all out with my full-face routine—and yes, I’ll be sharing that soon, so stay tuned for the next blog post!