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Makeup for Beginners – Your Ultimate Starter Guide
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items If you're just starting out with makeup, it can feel like there are too many products and not enough guidance. This list is everything I wish I had when I first started — simple products that work, with little tips to help you along the way. This lis...
Sections
7
Skin Prep
Base Makeup
Brows
Eyes
Cheeks
Lips
Skin Prep
Before applying any makeup, prepping your skin is the key to a smooth, long-lasting finish. Think of it as creating a perfect canvas for your art.
I always like to start with this because it cleans my skin without leaving it dry — perfect if you're trying to avoid that tight feeling.
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Moisturizing
This feels like giving your skin a drink of water. It sinks in fast and never makes my skin greasy.
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Face Gel For Dry Skin
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable for me, even on cloudy days. This one is lightweight and doesn't leave a white cast.
La Roche Posay Anthelios Tinted Face Sunscreen Spf 50, Ultra …
I was skeptical about primers at first, but this one genuinely helps my makeup stay in place all day.
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer
This is my go-to cleansing water. It works on all skin types and doesn't irritate the skin
SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Cleanser & ...
If you want your makeup staying in place for a longe time without eing othered then this setting spray is what you need
AIRBRUSH FLAWLESS SETTING SPRAY ORIGINAL 100 ML
Base Makeup
Even Out Your Skin Without Looking Heavy
I love how this makes my skin look fresh without feeling heavy. When I want a little glow, this is my go-to.
Maybelline Fit Me Dewy Smooth Foundation - Target
This was the first concealer I ever tried, and it’s still one of the best for covering dark spots without creasing.
L.a. Girl Pro Conceal Hd Concealer - 0.28oz - Target
I only apply this to my T-zone — just enough to control shine without making my skin look flat.
Rimmel Stay Matte Powder - Target
Brows
Your brows can completely change how your face looks. Whether you like them bold or natural, a little shaping goes a long way.
This makes it easy to fill in gaps without making my brows look drawn on.
Micro Brow Pencil Vegan Eyebrow Pencil - Ulta Beauty
I love how this keeps my brows in place without making them stiff.
e.l.f. Wow Brow Gel, Taupe, 0.12 oz - Walmart.com
Eyes
Eyeshadow can feel intimidating, but starting with one or two neutral shades makes everything easier.
These little palettes are beginner-friendly — no complicated color combos, just simple shades that blend easily.
wet n wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Quad, Silent Treatment
This mascara gives me long lashes without clumps — even when I'm in a rush.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Lengthening Mascara - Target
If you're up for trying eyeliner, this pen makes it easier to get a clean line.
NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner - 0.03 fl oz - Target
Cheeks
Blush, bronzer, and highlighter make your face look more awake and healthy.
A little dot of this blush is all you need — it blends beautifully with fingers or a sponge.
Rare Beauty Liquid Blush - Target
This melts into the skin and gives that soft, sun-kissed glow without any harsh lines.
Putty Bronzer - Cream to Powder Formula | e.l.f. Cosmetics
This adds the prettiest glow without looking too shiny.
Maybelline Master Chrome Highlighter Powder
Lips
Whether you like gloss, balm, or lipstick, a little something on the lips ties everything together.
I always apply this before any makeup — soft lips make everything look better.
Lip Sleeping Mask - LANEIGE
This gloss is the perfect everyday touch — not too shiny, not sticky.
Nyx Professional Makeup Butter Lip Gloss - 0.27 Fl Oz
When I need something that lasts, this crayon never lets me down.
Superstay Ink Crayon Maybelline - Walmart
Tools
Good tools make everything easier — even if you're just starting out.
I didn't realize how much of a difference a sponge makes until I tried this one. It blends everything without streaks.
real techniques miracle complexion sponge - Target
These brushes are small and easy to work with, especially if you're still learning.
EcoTools Daily Defined Eye Makeup Brush Kit, 6 Piece Set