Why is it only you whose makeup melts off? Follow these perfect makeup steps so you can also get a smooth, long‑lasting, flawless base

Want a refined, flawless makeup look, yet always deal with cakey foundation, smudged eye makeup, or makeup that doesn’t last? Don’t worry! POPBEE is sharing 5 simple makeup steps. Master the right routine, and even beginners can easily achieve a perfect makeup look!

• Related reading: Every step matters: The difference between daytime and nighttime skincare, plus the skincare secrets followed by girls with great skin

Makeup Step 1: Skin prep — cleansing + moisturizing

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 빵나 / 원어바웃 (@nawonny)

Great makeup starts with skin prep! Cleansing is the first step: use a gentle cleanser to thoroughly remove excess oil and dirt, helping prevent your makeup from looking patchy. Next, moisturize with a toner, serum, and lotion suited to your skin type to keep skin hydrated so foundation adheres better. Finally, don’t forget to apply sunscreen before heading out during the day to protect your skin from UV damage and help your makeup last longer.

Makeup Step 2: Primer — for better-adhering makeup

Primer or a makeup base is an important step in helping your base makeup adhere better. Choose a product based on your skin’s needs: an oil-control formula suits oily skin and can help prevent excess oil and makeup from wearing off, while a hydrating formula works for dry skin, leaving makeup looking more dewy and natural. Color-correcting primers, such as green or purple ones, can neutralize redness or sallow skin, helping your base look more even and radiant.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ㅅㅎ / shiho (@eumld_)

Makeup Step 3: Base makeup — for a natural, flawless finish

Choosing a foundation that suits your skin tone and skin type is key. Common types include powder foundation, liquid foundation, cream foundation, and cushion foundation. Once you’ve found the right foundation, use the right tools to create a lightweight base. Gently pat foundation on with a makeup sponge for a more even finish that adheres better to the skin and doesn’t look heavy.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 아현 (@ah.hyeon)

Next, use concealer on areas such as dark circles and acne marks to make your complexion look more flawless and radiant. Finally, lightly press loose powder or pressed powder over your entire face to set your base and help makeup last longer.

Makeup Step 4: Eye makeup — for brighter-looking eyes

Polished eye makeup can enhance your overall look. Start with your brows: choose a brow shape that suits you, then use a brow pencil or powder to fill in sparse areas for natural, defined brows.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jiyeon Seo (@seoziyeon)

For eyeshadow, start with a light shade as a base, then use a darker shade to define the crease for added dimension. For eyeliner, choose a tightline or a line along the upper lash line based on your personal style to make your eyes look deeper and more defined. Finally, curl your lashes and apply mascara for a separated, defined effect.

Makeup Step 5: Blush and contour — for a refined, smaller-looking face

Blush gives your complexion a healthier look. Choose a blush that suits your skin tone, then lightly blend it onto the highest points of your cheekbones when you smile for a natural flush.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 아현 (@ah.hyeon)

Contour can also refine your face shape. Lightly sweep shading beneath the cheekbones, along the hairline, and on the jawline to make your facial contours look more defined and refined.

Makeup Step 6: Lip makeup — the key finishing touch

Lip makeup is the final step in your overall look and can add a highlight to it. Choose a matte or dewy lipstick texture based on your makeup style to make lips look more richly colored and full.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by 아현 (@ah.hyeon)

For more defined lips and a Western-style lip look, first outline your lips with lip liner, then fill them in with color. Finish with a layer of lip gloss for a plump, dewy effect.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Jiyeon Seo (@seoziyeon)

After completing the steps above, don’t forget to use setting products such as setting spray and pressed setting powder to help your makeup last longer! The key to makeup is following the right steps and choosing products that suit you, as every detail can affect the final result. Whether you’re wearing light makeup every day or getting ready for a formal occasion, keep these tips in mind for a smooth, refined, long-lasting makeup look!

Join Popbee Circle and subscribe to POPBEE newsletter for the latest updates and early access to exclusive perks and discounts! Beyond this article, here are some recent stories worth checking out: