We have high expectations of ourselves when doing our makeup, whether it is for a special event or for work every day. We spend hours scrolling through Instagram watching influencers and beauty bloggers achieve stunning makeup looks and perfect applications, but when it comes to doing it ourselves, it’s not so easy.

If you’ve ever experienced cakey, patchy results when applying your makeup, we hear you. However, it may not be caused by your makeup or brushes, it may be due to your pre-makeup skincare routine or lack thereof. Preparing your skin beforehand is an important step that you shouldn’t skip. Ignoring this step can lead to clogged pores and unhealthy skin, resulting in thick or uneven makeup.  By following these 3 steps below, you will be on your way to clear skin and flawless makeup.

Exfoliate

When makeup is applied without exfoliating beforehand, you may notice a blotchy or cakey appearance. This is due to a build-up of excess dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. When your sebaceous glands produce oil, it creates a waxy-like coating (also known as sebum), which can cause clogged pores. This can lead to blackheads and other types of acne. Exfoliating encourages the shedding of dead skin cells and promotes new cell turnover. It also removes any dirt, oil, sweat, bacteria, and other impurities on your skin.  

Your  Neutriderm pre-makeup skincare routine should start with a product that will gently exfoliate the skin to remove any build-up on the skins surface. Exfoliation also helps other skincare products like serums and moisturisers absorb better into the skin. 

Cleanse

Cleansing is important to maintain clean, healthy skin. However, before choosing your cleanser, you should first determine your skin type. Once you know what your skin type is, you can speak with your dermatologist about the recommended cleansing and exfoliating methods. It’s best to use a cleanser before and after any makeup application, no matter your skin type. Try using your cleanser once in the morning and again before bed.  

Dermavive Hydra Cleanser is soap-free and is made with natural ingredients that are safe and gentle to use on your skin. Colloidal oatmeal is the key active ingredient in this cleanser which helps to soothe and restore pH levels. This cleanser effectively removes the build-up of dirt, oil, sweat, makeup, bacteria, excess sebum, and other impurities that can cause clogged pores. It leaves your skin feeling soft and clean. 

Moisturise

Moisturising is equally as important as your cleanser. Moisturising re-hydrates the skin and provides extra nourishment it needs to be protected from external pollutants. Moisturising locks in the moisture and acts as a barrier to protect your skin form irritants.  

Neutriderm Moisturising Lotion is made with Vitamin E phosphate, which makes it 10 x better for absorption. It is a lightweight moisturiser making it the perfect base for any makeup application. Neutriderm Moisturising Lotion is dermatologically recommended and can be used for all skin types.  

Having a consistent skincare routine is the best way to avoid cakey makeup. Always cleanse and moisturise before and after applying makeup and make sure to exfoliate 1-3 times a week based on your individual skin type. Before making any changes to your skincare routine, consult your dermatologist.