This is my basic/must do prep routine before I get too excited putting my eyeshadow, my blushes and all the fun stuff. And yes, I don't really fancy this part of the routine but it is very important to be able to get a very nice makeup do...

no. 1 - make sure that you apply a good makeup base. This is to even out and smoothen the skin. It will also helps the makeup stays longer.

no. 2 - Foundation. You can start with applying a thin foundation (specially if you are in a hot and humid area). I've made a mistake before by buying what the beauty gurus recommend on every beauty sites without thinking about the specific details like if it is good for oily skin, humid weather, if it's matte and all those little things we need to keep in mind. So, the trick is if you are not sure about the product, you can purchase the smallest size they have or even ask for a sample and see if it works. If it does then you can level up by purchasing as many as you want but if not then at least you didn't spend all that money for a product that didn't really work on you. And again, start light. Don't pack on too much.

no. 3 - Concealer. For me this one is optional. But it helps a lot specially if you have "extra" baggy and dark under eyes. Just make sure you blend it nicely so it won't get cakey.

no, 5 - Setting powder. This will help create a finish and matte look as well as help the foundation stay longer.


no. 6 - Eyeshadow Base - This will help the eyeshadow stay longer and it prevents creasing as well. Also most eyeshadows only work best when use with an eyeshadow base.

no. 7 - Get an eye shadow with neutral colors that way you won't look *drastic specially when you are still starting with makeup.


no. 8 - Basic eyebrow pencil. The rule is to get a shade lighter than your hair. Or you can get two colors and blend it together just like our real hair color.


no. 9 - Keep some *Basic Eye Essential. A water proof mascara, to avoid dripping and having panda eyes specially in a hot and humid weather when you can't help sweating a bit. Then get some water proof eye liner. I would recommend eyeliner that are designed like pens so it easier to use.


no. 10 - You can start with 2 basic blushes; one a little darker for contouring (you don't want to do extreme contouring or you will end up looking a bit funny). Then a pink shade or any shade which will add some "blush to your cheeks making you look fresh and glowing.



no. 11 - Get some lipsticks in basic shades so it can go with different makeup looks. I always love nude pink and some light red to go with my everyday look.

So, I did a simple makeup look using all these products, the red lipstick on the right and some shades from the Nudy Brown Complete Palette.