The secret to TikTok's 'skin first' approach to makeup.

It’s official — the new makeup trend is actually just 'your skin but better'.

TikTok is abuzz with the idea of having a 'skin first' approach to your beauty routine, prioritising giving your skin some love so it feels better, but also enhancing how your makeup looks.

Some of BeautyTok’s biggest creators regularly share their own skin prep routines, including product recommendations so that your makeup heads more in the direction of natural and glowy, rather than dry and crusty. 

Putting a little extra effort into prepping the skin with a good routine can also mean it takes less effort at the makeup stage. This is great news if you’re anything like me and maybe don’t have the best blending technique.

Personally, I am all about some juicy skincare goodness. Hydrated skin is plump and smooth skin, creating a great base for everything that follows. Your skin prep will vary depending on your skin type and needs, but there’s a routine out there for everyone to help you get your skin where you need.

But before we get into it, listen to the latest episode of Mamamia's daily beauty podcast, You Beauty. Post continues after audio.

What to include in your skin prep routine.

Image: Supplied. 

One step you absolutely can’t skip is sun prep — sunscreen is a non-negotiable and the best investment you can make in your skin. Formulas like the Aussie-made and owned Hamilton Everyday Face Sunscreen provides your skin with broad-spectrum SPF 50+ protection, as well as creating the right canvas for makeup application. 

Image: Supplied. 

It’s suitable for all skin types, and includes aloe vera and vitamin E to moisturise with a matte look for that invisible finish. Best applied as the first step before applying makeup (and make sure you’re including your neck and ears).

Whilst you’re there, don’t forget to protect your lips! Blistex's Lip Conditioner provides SPF 30+ sun protection, along with cocoa butter and vitamin E for long-lasting hydration. Adding a step like this to rehydrate the lips helps prep them to be soft and plump, the ideal canvas for both a bold lip moment or natural look. 

Okay, okay, okay, I may have skipped ahead a few steps, but sunscreen is important! And your skin isn’t truly prepped unless you’ve got your SPF on.

Now I know we all have different skin needs, but here are some simple steps and fantastic products to help get you started on your skin prepping journey.

Start off with a gentle cleanse to remove any excess oil or daily grime — the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is a cult classic for a reason. It lathers softly and contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to support the skin barrier. 

Another great option is a micellar water like the Bioderma Sensibio Soothing Micellar Cleanser — a no-fuss formula that ensures makeup and impurities are no longer on the skin. 

Next step is a serum to help cater to your skin goals. In need of some lightweight hydration? How about you try the L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Serum, which is designed to absorb quickly.

Dullness getting you down? The Olay Luminous Niacinamide Super Serum is one to reach for. 

Looking to target dark spots and breakouts? The Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Serum is formulated to help even the skin and a great place to start with vitamin C. 

Follow this with a moisturiser that’s not too heavy and will sit nicely under your sunscreen and makeup. 

If you’re in need of serious hydration, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel packs a punch whilst still having a lightweight texture. 

Of course, this is where you add in your sunscreen step. We already spoke about the Hamilton Everyday formula for your face and the matte finish on the skin. If primer is your thing, you can add it in here, but all that skin prep work is already doing the most for your skin.

Now, we get to makeup.

Your skin is well-prepped and hydrated for whatever you want to throw at it next, but of course, I do have a couple of recommendations if you’re looking to keep that 'your skin but better' natural glow going.

Reaching for a skin tint is a great way to get that fresh finish while still getting some coverage. The Rimmel Kind & Free Skin Tint is a favourite for a dewy, even skin finish that also incorporates some more skincare goodness in the form of vitamin E and pro-vitamin B5.

After a naturally flushed cheek? The Flower Beauty Gel Crush Lip & Cheek gives you that soft pop of colour. You can also take it across the lips, along with a layer of the Blistex to give you that super juicy lip.

Image: Supplied. 

Finish everything off with a few swipes of the Rimmel Kind & Free Mascara in Brown Black for defined, lifted lashes!

Putting your skin first and truly investing the time into your skincare is the best way to balance looking after your skin and getting what you want from your makeup looks.

Find Hamilton Everyday Face SPF 50+ and Blistex Lip Conditioner SPF 30+ at Chemist Warehouse in-store or online.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. 

Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Re-apply every 2 hours after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.

Feature Image: Instagram/@morgansskinjournal.