Want Flawless Makeup? It Starts With Skin Prep
Introduction
We’ve all had those mornings: foundation that looks patchy, concealer that creases before coffee, or powder that clings to dry patches. The truth? The way your makeup performs has less to do with your technique —and everything to do with your skin prep.
Skincare and makeup aren’t separate steps. They’re partners. The right prep routine means smoother texture, longer wear, and that healthy, lit-from-within glow. Here’s how to prep like a pro, starting the night before.
The Night Before: Regeneration While You Sleep
Your skin works hardest while you rest — repairing, renewing, and regenerating. A smart nighttime routine supports that natural process, so you wake up to a fresh canvas.
Cleanse properly: Always remove makeup and the day’s buildup. Think of it as giving your skin space to breathe.
Targeted treatment: Night serums rich in peptides or actives (like our Radiance Regeneration Serum with Copper Peptide) boost collagen, tackle fine lines, and support firmness overnight.
Hydrate deeply: Lock in moisture with a nourishing night cream or oil. Supple skin = makeup that glides, not clings.
Pro tip: Sleep on a clean pillowcase and stay hydrated. Small tweaks, big results.
The Morning Of: Prime Beyond Makeup
Morning prep isn’t about loading layers of product. It’s about creating balance: calm, hydrated skin that makes makeup application effortless.
Refresh + hydrate: Start with a lightweight, hydrating serum (like Radiance Renewal Hydrating Serum with Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid) to plump skin and restore glow.
Moisturise: Smooth, bouncy skin helps foundation blend seamlessly. Pick a moisturiser that works with your skin type — not against it.
Protect: Always apply SPF. Makeup looks better (and lasts longer) when your skin is healthy, not stressed.
Prime: A makeup primer bridges skincare and foundation. It evens texture, controls shine, and locks makeup in place all day.
Why Skin Prep Matters
Great skin prep:
✔ Softens and smooths texture, so foundation applies evenly
✔ Minimises dryness or oiliness that can cause makeup to separate
✔ Extends wear time (no sliding off by lunchtime)
✔ Gives your base a natural, radiant finish — no filter needed
Because when your skin is looked after, your makeup doesn’t just sit on top — it becomes part of the glow.
The Skin Prep Bottom Line
Makeup doesn’t start with foundation. It starts the night before, with regeneration, and in the morning, with hydration and protection. Skincare is the ultimate backstage pass: it sets the scene, perfects the canvas, and makes every look last longer and shine brighter.
Your Skincare Questions, Answered.
From ingredient breakdowns to makeup myths and skincare secrets, we’re here to give it to you straight — the Napoleon Perdis way. Whether you're a beauty beginner or a glam guru, let’s get you glowing.
Is Napoleon Perdis skincare cruelty-free and vegan?
All Napoleon Perdis skincare is cruelty-free. We do not test any of our makeup or skincare products on animals, and we are committed to ethical beauty practices. Many of our skincare products are also vegan because glamour should never come at the cost of kindness.
Why is skincare important?
Because great skin is always in. Skincare isn’t just self-care, it’s your skin’s foundation for glow, resilience and long-term radiance. Think of it as prepping your canvas: the smoother, healthier and more hydrated your skin, the better your makeup performs.
How do I Layer Skincare Products?
It’s all about layering like a pro: cleanse, tone (if you like), serum, eye cream, moisturiser, SPF. Lightweight to rich, so every product performs at its best.
How do I know my skin type?
Get close and personal with your skin. Oily? You’ll see shine, especially by midday. Dry? Expect tightness or flaking. Combination? A bit of both. Sensitive? Redness or reactivity. Trust your skin, it’s always giving you clues.
What’s the best skincare routine for my skin type?
There’s no one-size-fits-all, and that’s the beauty of it. Your skin deserves a personalised ritual. Whether you're dry, oily, or somewhere in between, we’ve crafted formulas to balance, nourish, and elevate. Cleanse, treat, hydrate, protect. Repeat.
Do I really need to wear sunscreen every day?
Absolutely. Think of SPF as your skin’s ultimate bodyguard, rain, shine, or cloud. Our daily formulas are weightless, protective, and designed to layer under makeup without fuss.

