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Makeup Skin Prep: For Oily Skin

Updated: Nov 17, 2024

Proper skin prep can help your makeup last longer, reduce shine, and keep the complexion looking fresh. Here’s a step-by-step guide for clients with oily skin:

CLEANSE:

  • Use a gentle foaming or gel-based cleanser designed for oily skin. Cleansing removes excess oil, dirt, and residue, which can prevent makeup from sticking properly.

  • Tip: Avoid cleansers that strip the skin too much, as this can lead to overproduction of oil.


Cleanser

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser

  • Description: This gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser is perfect for oily and sensitive skin. It removes excess oil, dirt, and makeup without stripping the skin, leaving it fresh and balanced.

  • Key Ingredients: Zinc PCA to help reduce oil production.

TONE:

  • Apply an alcohol-free toner that balances pH and helps reduce excess oil. Toners with ingredients like salicylic acid, witch hazel, or niacinamide are great for oily skin.

  • Tip: Use a cotton pad to swipe the toner over the face, or gently pat it in for better absorption.


Toner

  1. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

    • Description: This budget-friendly, high-performing toner provides gentle chemical exfoliation, which helps control oil, minimize pores, and improve skin texture. The glycolic acid brightens and evens skin tone over time, making it a popular choice for those with oily or textured skin.

    • Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, aloe vera for soothing, and Tasmanian pepperberry to reduce potential irritation.

  2. Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

    • Description: This toner is a favorite for oily and combination skin types, as it reduces the look of large pores, helps balance oil, and provides lightweight hydration. It also contains antioxidants and soothing ingredients, making it gentle enough for daily use.

    • Key Ingredients: Niacinamide for pore size reduction, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and antioxidants to protect the skin barrier.

  3. Kiehl's Rare Earth Pore Refining Tonic

    • Description: Known for its oil-absorbing properties, this toner uses Amazonian white clay to minimize the appearance of pores and reduce excess shine. It’s ideal for oily skin and works well to prepare the skin for makeup.

    • Key Ingredients: Amazonian white clay to absorb excess oil, allantoin to soothe, and aloe vera for gentle hydration.


EYE CREAM (optional):

  • For clients with eye-area concerns, a lightweight, non-greasy eye cream can help smooth and hydrate, especially if they plan to use concealer under the eyes.


Eye Cream

  • Without Retinol: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

    • Description: A gentle and hydrating eye cream that reduces puffiness and dark circles, formulated without retinol. Ideal for daytime or nighttime use.

    • Key Ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for hydration and barrier support.

  • With Retinol: Medik8 Retinol Eye TR Serum

    • Description: This serum is specially formulated for the delicate eye area, providing anti-aging benefits like reducing fine lines and improving skin texture. It’s suitable for nighttime use to support skin renewal.

    • Key Ingredients: 0.1% retinol for fine lines, vitamin E for added protection, and squalane for hydration.


MOISTURIZE:

  • Even oily skin needs moisture! Choose an oil-free, lightweight, or gel-based moisturizer. Look for non-comedogenic ingredients to avoid clogging pores.

  • Tip: Moisturizer helps regulate oil production throughout the day, so don’t skip this step!


Moisturizer

  • Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

    • Description: This lightweight, oil-free moisturizer is hydrating yet won’t clog pores, making it ideal for oily skin. The gel formula absorbs quickly and sits well under makeup.

    • Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid for moisture retention and glycerin for added hydration.

PRIME:

  • Select a mattifying primer, focusing on oil-prone areas like the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin).

  • Primers with silicone can help create a smooth base, but avoid heavy silicone-based formulas if they clog your pores.


Primer

MAC Cosmetics Mattifine 12-Hour Shine-Control Primer

  • Description: This oil-free primer controls shine for up to 12 hours, blurs pores, and creates a smooth, matte finish. It's lightweight, making it ideal for oily skin and long-wearing looks.

  • Benefit POREfessional Matte Rescue Primer

    • Description: A gel-based primer that blurs pores, reduces shine, and creates a smooth, mattified base. Perfect for oily skin, especially in humid conditions.

  • Best Mattifying Primers on the Market

    1. Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer

      • Description: This oil-free, mattifying primer blurs imperfections, controls oil, and extends makeup wear. It's lightweight and suitable for all-day use.

    2. Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Mattifying Primer

      • Description: This weightless primer provides a soft matte finish, reduces shine, and works especially well with the Pro Filt’r foundation. It’s long-wearing and ideal for oily skin.


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