14 New Year Skincare Steps to Try If Makeup Looks Patchy

Patchy makeup is often a sign that your skin needs a little more care before you apply your favorite products. Skincare isn’t just about moisturizing, it’s about creating the perfect base for makeup. A few small tweaks to your routine can help smooth out dry spots and uneven patches. These easy skincare steps will ensure your makeup goes on evenly and stays put.

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Gentle Cleanser for Smooth Makeup Application

A gentle cleanser is essential for maintaining healthy skin that provides a smooth base for makeup. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and patchy makeup. Look for a cleanser that removes dirt and oil without disrupting your skin’s moisture balance. Apply the cleanser in gentle circular motions, avoiding any harsh scrubbing. Afterward, your skin should feel clean and soft, with no tightness or dryness.

A gentle cleanser works well for all skin types, especially sensitive skin that may be prone to irritation. It helps prepare your skin for the next steps in your skincare routine, allowing moisturizers and serums to absorb more effectively. Use lukewarm water when washing your face to avoid irritation. Always follow up with a hydrating toner or serum to maintain moisture. Proper cleansing ensures your makeup will apply evenly and stay in place longer.

Nourishing Face Serum for Hydrated Skin

Serums can target specific skin concerns, such as dryness, dullness, or uneven texture. When your skin feels patchy, a nourishing serum can deeply hydrate and smooth the surface. Look for serums with vitamin C or peptides to improve skin texture and brighten up your complexion. The key is to apply the serum while your skin is still slightly damp from the toner. This helps lock in moisture and prepares your skin for a flawless foundation.

Serums are concentrated formulas, so just a few drops are enough for your entire face. Massage the serum in gently, focusing on areas that need extra hydration. Allow the serum to absorb fully before applying your moisturizer or makeup. This step will provide an additional layer of hydration, ensuring your makeup goes on smoothly. Consistent use of a serum can improve your skin’s appearance over time, preventing patchy makeup in the future.

Hydrating Face Oil for Smooth Makeup Application

Face oils can provide deep hydration and nourishment, especially for dry or combination skin. After your moisturizer, apply a few drops of face oil to seal in moisture and help your makeup glide on smoothly. Choose oils that are lightweight and non-comedogenic, so they won’t clog your pores. Oils like argan, rosehip, or jojoba are perfect for adding a healthy glow and making your skin feel soft. Face oil can be particularly useful for areas that tend to feel dry or look patchy under makeup.

Face oils also help protect your skin from environmental damage by creating a barrier against pollutants. Apply the oil gently with your fingertips, focusing on areas that need extra hydration. Allow the oil to absorb fully before applying foundation to prevent your makeup from slipping. The right face oil can make your skin look dewy and radiant, with no dry patches. It’s an excellent option for those with dry skin or those looking to add a glow to their complexion.

Rich Lip Balm for Smooth Lip Makeup

Dry, cracked lips can make your makeup look even patchier. To keep your lips smooth and hydrated, apply a rich lip balm before doing your makeup. Look for lip balms with ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil, which help lock in moisture. After applying the balm, allow it to sit for a few minutes before applying lipstick or lip gloss. Your lips will feel nourished and plump, and your lip color will stay on without settling into dry patches.

A good lip balm also creates a smooth base for any lip products, preventing uneven application. Make sure to choose a formula that isn’t too greasy but provides long-lasting hydration. Apply lip balm regularly throughout the day to maintain softness and prevent cracks. This step is particularly important during the winter months when lips tend to dry out more easily. Keep your lips feeling comfortable and looking smooth by incorporating this simple step into your routine.

Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen for Even Makeup Finish

Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, especially if you want to maintain healthy, smooth skin for makeup. It helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays, which can cause dryness and premature aging. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 that suits your skin type. Apply sunscreen generously to your face and neck every morning, even if you’re staying indoors. This step will prevent sun damage, keeping your skin soft and even for makeup application.

Sunscreen not only protects your skin but also helps maintain its texture and tone. Without sunscreen, your skin can become dry, which makes makeup cling to uneven areas. Over time, consistent sunscreen use can prevent pigmentation and damage that might disrupt the look of your makeup. Make sure to reapply sunscreen throughout the day for continued protection. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in both your skincare and makeup routine.

Hydrating Primer for Smooth Makeup Application

A hydrating primer is essential when you want your makeup to stay smooth and even throughout the day. It acts as a barrier, filling in any fine lines or uneven texture on your skin’s surface. Look for a primer that suits your skin type, with ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E to provide extra hydration. Apply the primer evenly across your face to create a smooth, velvety base for your makeup. This step will help your foundation glide on without settling into dry patches.

A hydrating primer also helps makeup last longer by preventing it from breaking down during the day. Be sure to use a thin layer and allow it to set before applying foundation. A good primer will not only smooth out your skin but also give it a natural, dewy finish. Your makeup should look fresh and radiant instead of cakey or patchy. It’s a simple yet effective step for a flawless makeup application.

Hydrating Overnight Mask for Plump Skin

An overnight mask is a great way to deeply hydrate your skin while you sleep. These masks provide intense moisture that your skin can absorb over several hours, leaving you with soft, plump skin by morning. Apply the mask as the final step in your nighttime skincare routine, and let it work its magic overnight. In the morning, wash your face with lukewarm water, and your skin will feel refreshed and ready for makeup. This step is especially beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin.

Hydrating overnight masks often contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe, or honey to provide maximum moisture. They are perfect for replenishing skin after a long day or during the colder months when skin tends to lose moisture. When you wake up, your skin should feel smooth and hydrated, making makeup application easier. This step can significantly reduce the chances of makeup looking patchy or uneven. Try using an overnight mask once or twice a week for best results.

Hydrating Toner for Moisture Balance

If your makeup tends to cling to dry patches, a hydrating toner can help balance your skin’s moisture levels. Toners work by replenishing hydration and prepping the skin for the next steps in your skincare routine. Opt for a toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin for maximum hydration. Using this product regularly can make a noticeable difference in the smoothness of your makeup. After application, your skin should feel refreshed and ready for moisturizer.

A moisturizing toner can also help calm irritated skin, making it a great option for sensitive areas. Make sure to apply the toner using a cotton pad or your hands to avoid wasting product. Let the toner dry before moving on to your serum or moisturizer. This extra step will provide a solid base for a flawless makeup application. Hydrated skin will hold makeup better and prevent it from looking patchy throughout the day.

Vitamin C Serum for Radiant Skin

A vitamin C serum can help brighten up dull skin, making it a great addition to your skincare routine. This powerful antioxidant targets uneven skin tone and discoloration, helping to create a smoother surface for makeup. Apply the serum to your face in the morning after cleansing and before your moisturizer. It can also help protect your skin from environmental damage, making it an essential step for maintaining a healthy complexion. Over time, vitamin C can improve the overall appearance of your skin, reducing the likelihood of patchy makeup.

Vitamin C serums are especially helpful for those with pigmentation or sun spots. They can provide a natural glow, which enhances your skin’s appearance before makeup application. When used consistently, vitamin C can even out your complexion and give your skin a bright, refreshed look. Make sure to apply the serum evenly across your face, focusing on areas that need extra brightness. It’s a simple step that can make a big impact on how your makeup looks.

Rich Lip Balm for Smooth Lip Makeup

Dry, cracked lips can make your makeup look even patchier. To keep your lips smooth and hydrated, apply a rich lip balm before doing your makeup. Look for lip balms with ingredients like shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil, which help lock in moisture. After applying the balm, allow it to sit for a few minutes before applying lipstick or lip gloss. Your lips will feel nourished and plump, and your lip color will stay on without settling into dry patches.

A good lip balm also creates a smooth base for any lip products, preventing uneven application. Make sure to choose a formula that isn’t too greasy but provides long-lasting hydration. Apply lip balm regularly throughout the day to maintain softness and prevent cracks. This step is particularly important during the winter months when lips tend to dry out more easily. Keep your lips feeling comfortable and looking smooth by incorporating this simple step into your routine.

Moisturizing Face Mask for Intense Hydration

Face masks are a great way to provide your skin with an intense burst of hydration. If your makeup looks patchy due to dryness, a moisturizing face mask can quickly restore your skin’s moisture levels. Choose a mask that focuses on deep hydration, like ones containing honey, aloe, or shea butter. Apply the mask for 10–15 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water. Your skin will feel softer, smoother, and more hydrated, making makeup application much easier.

Using a moisturizing mask once a week can give your skin a refreshing boost. Be sure to follow up with a serum or moisturizer to lock in the hydration. Masks can help address specific skin concerns, such as dryness or uneven texture, providing targeted treatment. After the mask, your skin should feel plump and nourished, which will help your makeup apply more evenly. This extra step will provide lasting benefits to your skin’s texture.

Focus on Eye Area Hydration for Smooth Makeup

The skin around your eyes is delicate and can show signs of dryness quickly, making makeup application in this area more challenging. Use an eye cream or gel to hydrate and smooth the skin around your eyes before applying concealer or foundation. Opt for products with ingredients like caffeine or hyaluronic acid, which can help reduce puffiness and fine lines. Gently tap the product into the skin using your ring finger to avoid tugging. This will create a smooth surface, making it easier for makeup to sit evenly without creasing or clinging to dry spots.

Hydrated eye areas allow makeup products like concealer and eyeshadow to blend effortlessly, avoiding patchy or cakey looks. Always make sure to apply eye cream both morning and night to keep this sensitive skin nourished. If you’re prone to dark circles or puffiness, look for eye creams with brightening agents like vitamin C or peptides. This extra step ensures your makeup stays fresh and smooth, especially during long days. Consistent hydration around the eyes is key to flawless makeup application.

Vitamin E-Infused Moisturizer for Soft Skin

Vitamin E is a powerful ingredient that can help nourish and soften your skin. Using a vitamin E-infused moisturizer can help restore hydration and prevent makeup from clinging to dry spots. Vitamin E also has antioxidant properties that protect your skin from environmental damage. Apply a generous amount of moisturizer to your face and neck, allowing it to absorb fully before applying makeup. This extra step helps maintain soft, smooth skin, ensuring your makeup applies evenly and looks fresh.

Vitamin E helps improve your skin’s texture over time, giving it a healthier appearance. This ingredient is especially helpful for those with dry or mature skin, as it helps lock in moisture. You can also use a vitamin E-rich moisturizer at night to nourish your skin while you sleep. The result is a more hydrated and supple complexion, making your makeup go on effortlessly. Be sure to choose a non-comedogenic formula to prevent clogged pores.

Apply a Hydrating Setting Spray

A hydrating setting spray can lock in your makeup while also providing a refreshing boost of moisture. It’s perfect for combating dryness that may cause makeup to appear patchy. Choose a setting spray with a hydrating formula, such as one containing aloe vera or rosewater. Hold the spray at arm’s length and mist it evenly over your face after applying makeup. This step not only sets your makeup but also keeps your skin dewy and hydrated all day.

Hydrating setting sprays can help revive your makeup throughout the day, preventing it from looking cakey or worn down. The mist should feel refreshing and light, not heavy or sticky. A good setting spray will give your makeup a natural finish and help it last longer without settling into fine lines. For an extra boost, you can reapply the setting spray during the day. It’s a quick and easy way to keep your makeup looking fresh.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.