Interview
Skin first, then makeup
One of Denmark’s leading makeup artists, Anne Staunsager, shares her best advice for hydration, glow, and prepping the skin before makeup.
Why is skincare the first step to beautiful makeup?
A good hydration routine before applying makeup is essential. It helps makeup sit more beautifully on the skin and last throughout the day without leaving your skin feeling dry.
What does the skin need for makeup to sit beautifully?
Well-hydrated skin is key to beautiful makeup. I always recommend gentle exfoliation at least twice a week to remove dead skin cells and avoid dry patches. This also preps the skin to better absorb all that important hydration from serums, oils, and creams.
How long before applying makeup should you do your skincare?
sink into the skin. If your cream is lighter, you can apply makeup straight away.
I love it when the skin retains its natural texture underneath foundation and concealer, so everything kind of melts together. It creates a beautiful, natural, glowy look. If you prefer a more matte finish, you can let your skincare sit for a little longer before applying makeup.
"I LOVE Mist Delight and use it before applying serum or oil...."
Are there certain areas of the face you treat differently before applying makeup?
I often add a little extra moisture around the eyes with eye cream, especially around the smile lines. But not too much if you’re using concealer under the eyes, as it can make the concealer move around. Less is more. Just gently dab on a small amount with your finger.
Sometimes I also dab any leftover eye cream around the lip line for a little extra hydration.
What do you do if the skin looks dry, tired, or a little dull on the day?
I LOVE Mist Delight and use it before applying serum or oil. It gives the skin an extra boost and really helps draw moisture into the skin. It’s a sure winner when the skin looks dry and dull.
I also often use it as the final step after makeup for extra glow and a more natural finish – for example, if you’ve accidentally applied a little too much powder.
How do you prevent makeup from pilling?
I’ve never experienced makeup pilling when I use Rudolph Care products. That’s one of the reasons I always use them. Makeup can pill when your skincare and foundation don’t work well together, or when the skincare sits on top of the skin like a “lid” rather than absorbing properly.
Which Rudolph Care products do you use to prep the skin for makeup – and why those in particular?
I always use Mist Delight, Facial Oil Delight, and Moisture Delight. They’re incredibly hydrating without feeling greasy and are perfect underneath makeup.
I take my time massaging the products into the skin to create warmth and stimulate circulation. It helps “wake up” the skin and get it ready for makeup.