Skin moisturizers may be the most important part of your morning routine, protecting and hydrating your skin while ensuring an even and long lasting application of your makeup. While the type of moisturizer you choose will depend on your skin type and personal preference, a few tricks can help you apply an effective moisturizer with your makeup.
Begin by washing your face with a mild soap and warm water. Wash your face gently, massaging with circular motions, paying special attention to problem areas, such as the T-zone or between the eyebrows. Rinse your face with warm water to open your pores and then pat dry with a clean towel.
Make sure that your hand are clean as well, as any dirt or grease on your fingertips will remain on your face after you apply your moisturizer.
Apply moisturizer sparingly, as it is easy to add more, but difficult to remove excess. Begin at the forehead, placing three small dabs of moisturizer evenly spaced at the middle of your brow. Work the moisturizer in, massaging in small circles from center out. Make sure you include your eyebrows and eyelids.
Add a dab of moisturizer to your nose, and again, massage out, working in the lotion. Apply a dab to each cheek, your chin and finish with your neck.
Allow the moisturizer to set before applying your makeup, as a recent application of lotion can cause your makeup to smear. When possible, style your hair or get dressed, waiting about 10 minutes before applying your makeup. Remember that once you have applied a moisturizer your makeup will go on differently, and may often appear darker than normal. Use a smaller amount of foundation, blush and eyeshadow than normal, adding more if necessary.
Reapply moisturizer during the day, after you have done your makeup. Simply use a damp cloth or towelette to gently remove any foundation, powder or blush. Apply moisturizer in the same manner, avoiding the eyelids and eyebrows and taking care around the lips. Reapply your foundation, powder and blush and you are ready to go.