Beauty Dilemma: Should You Tackle Hair or Makeup First?

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Makeup

Welcome to the never-ending dilemma of every woman’s morning routine: should you do your hair or makeup first? We’ve all been there, standing in front of the mirror with a brush in one hand and a makeup brush in the other, trying to decide where to begin. It may seem like a simple question, but the answer can greatly impact your entire day. Whether you’re heading out to work or getting ready for a special event, the order in which you do your hair and makeup can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore the age-old question and provide some expert advice to help you make the right decision for your individual beauty routine. So let’s dive in and find out if it’s best to start with flawless hair or a flawless face.

The age-old question of whether to do your hair or makeup first is one that has perplexed many individuals, both seasoned professionals and beginners alike. With so many conflicting opinions and techniques, it can be difficult to determine which approach is best for you. In this in-depth guide, we will finally put this debate to rest by exploring the pros and cons of doing your hair or makeup first. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Understanding Your Routine:

Before we jump into the debate of hair vs. makeup, it’s important to understand the basic structure of a typical beauty routine. Most individuals start by washing their face and applying moisturizer or primer. Then comes foundation, concealer, and any other complexion products like blush or bronzer. Following this, one may move on to eye makeup such as eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara. For hair styling, common steps include washing and conditioning, blow-drying, and using hot tools for curls or straightening. Now that we have a clear understanding of the standard routine let’s explore which should come first: hair or makeup?

Doing Hair First:

The argument for doing your hair first is often centered around the idea of convenience. By tackling your tresses before your face, you can avoid any mishaps that may occur from product transfer or fallout onto a freshly made-up complexion. Additionally, many find it easier to style their locks when they are free from any distractions posed by elaborate eyeshadow looks or fluttery false lashes.

Furthermore, doing your hair before makeup allows for more flexibility in terms of timing. If you’re someone who likes to allow time for your skin care products to sink in before starting makeup application (a good rule of thumb), then you can use this downtime wisely by styling your hair.

Another benefit of doing your hair first is if your hairstyle requires any heat styling tools, you can easily touch up any areas that may have been affected by makeup application. This ensures a polished and cohesive look.

Doing Makeup First:

On the other hand, doing your makeup first has its own set of perks. One of the main reasons individuals prefer this approach is to avoid any potential damage or disturbance to their freshly styled hair. For example, hairspray or other styling products can leave residue on the face and cause breakouts or clogged pores.

Moreover, those with more complex hairstyles may find it easier to perfect their makeup first before adding in hair accessories or manipulating their locks. This allows for full concentration on creating the desired look without worrying about messing up a fresh blowout or intricate updo.

Additionally, some argue that having a fully made-up face can help with overall appearance when styling hair. Seeing how your makeup looks with your chosen hairstyle can give a better sense of balance and ensure both hair and makeup are complementary.

The Verdict:

So should you do your hair or makeup first? Well, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what works best for you and your routine. If you have time constraints in the morning, it may be more efficient to do both simultaneously. However, if you have specific concerns like avoiding product transfer from hair onto face or vice versa, then opting for one over the other may be more suitable.

Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to this debate. Experimenting with both approaches can help determine which works best for your needs and preferences. And remember, as long as you feel confident and beautiful in your final look, that’s all that truly matters!

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With so many variables at play, deciding whether to do your hair or makeup first is no easy feat. Both approaches have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. It’s important to experiment and find what works best for you and your routine. Whether you choose to do your hair or makeup first, the most important thing is that you feel confident and beautiful in your final look. So go ahead, try both options and see which one suits you best!

Understanding the Debate: Should You Do Your Hair or Makeup First?

As we all know, getting ready in the morning can be a daunting task. With limited time and countless decisions to make, it’s no surprise that many women are faced with a common dilemma: Should I do my hair or makeup first? While some may think this is a trivial issue, it’s actually a topic that has sparked heated debates among beauty enthusiasts for decades.

On one hand, there are those who argue that starting with hair is the way to go. After all, without a good foundation of styling and product, your makeup may not have the desired effect. On the other hand, there are those who firmly believe that makeup should come first – after all, what’s the point of having perfectly styled hair if your face is not flawlessly made up?

So which side should you take? Is there even a right or wrong answer to this age-old question? In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the arguments on both sides and hopefully provide some clarity on the great debate of whether you should do your hair or makeup first.

The Case for Doing Your Hair First

For those who believe that hair should be done before makeup, their reasoning lies in the fact that hair products can often interfere with makeup application. For example, using styling products such as mousse, hairspray or even heat protectant sprays can leave residue on your face while you’re doing your hair. This residue can clog pores and create an uneven canvas for applying foundation and other makeup products.

Additionally, starting with hair allows you to manipulate your hairstyle in such a way that it complements your overall look. For instance, if you want to create a smoky eye look with heavy eyeliner and bold lips, having your hair down may overpower your face and make the overall look too busy. On the other hand, if you start with an updo or sleek ponytail, it can balance out the makeup and create a more cohesive look.

The Benefits of Doing Makeup First

On the other side of the argument, proponents of doing makeup first believe that it’s important to have a clean and fresh face before starting with hair styling. This allows for a smooth and flawless canvas for applying makeup products. Additionally, by starting with makeup, you can determine the overall look you want to achieve and coordinate your hair accordingly.

Moreover, for those who use heat tools to style their hair, doing makeup first can save time as you can let your hair cool down while working on your face. This is especially helpful for those who have limited time in the mornings and need to be efficient with their routine.

Tips for Striking a Balance

While each side makes valid points, there is no definitive answer as to whether you should do your hair or makeup first. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and what works best for you. However, if you’re looking for some practical tips on how to strike a balance between the two, here are some suggestions from beauty experts:

Prioritize Cleanliness

Regardless of whether you start with hair or makeup first, it’s important to ensure that both are done in a sanitary manner. Use an elastic headband or clip to keep your hair away from your face while doing makeup and avoid touching your face with product-covered hands when working on your hair. This helps prevent breakouts or skin irritation caused by cross-contamination.

Choose Products Wisely

If you’re someone who likes using styling products before doing makeup, opt for non-greasy options that won’t leave too much residue on your skin. Also, try using heat protectant sprays sparingly and make sure they dry completely before continuing with makeup application.

Start with a Base

No matter which side of the debate you’re on, it’s always a good idea to start with a clean and moisturized face. This provides a smooth base for makeup and can also help minimize any potential damage that may be caused by heat styling tools.

Experiment and Find What Works for You

At the end of the day, beauty is subjective and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to experiment and find out what routine or method suits your needs and preferences best. Whether you do your hair or makeup first, remember to take your time, have fun, and enjoy the process of getting ready – after all, that’s what it’s all about!

In conclusion, there is no clear consensus on whether you should do your hair or makeup first. It ultimately comes down to personal choice and what works best for you. Keep in mind that cleanliness and product choices are key in ensuring a successful beauty routine no matter which order you choose. So next time you’re faced with this dilemma, go with what feels right for you and rock your look with confidence!

1. Should I do my hair or makeup first?
A: Generally, it’s recommended to do your hair first. This way, any fall-out from your hair styling will not ruin your makeup.

2. What are the benefits of doing hair before makeup?
A: Doing your hair before applying makeup allows for a cleaner and more efficient makeup application process. Additionally, your hairstyle can serve as inspiration for your makeup look.

3. Is there ever a time when I should do my makeup before my hair?
A: Yes, if you plan on using hot tools or heat styling with your hair, it’s best to do this step after applying makeup to avoid any potential smudging or smearing of products.

4. Can I partially complete one task before moving onto the other?
A: Yes, if you need to wait for your hair or makeup products to set or dry, you can use that time to work on the other task. Just be mindful of any potential crossover and make sure not to mess up what you’ve already completed.

5. What should I consider when deciding which task to start with?
A: Consider the complexity of your hairstyle and makeup look. If one is more intricate and time-consuming, it may be best to start with that first.

6. What if I have limited time for getting ready?
A: In this case, prioritize the most important elements of your overall look. For example, if you have an event where you want an elaborate hairstyle but minimal makeup will suffice, focus on doing your hair first and then quickly add in some basic makeup elements afterwards.

In conclusion, the question of whether to do your hair or makeup first is a personal preference and can vary depending on individual routines and preferences. However, there are some important practical considerations to keep in mind when making this decision.

Firstly, it is important to consider the products and tools involved in each process. If you use heat styling tools for your hair, it may be more efficient to do your hair first so that the tools do not melt or smudge your makeup. On the other hand, if you are using setting sprays or powders for your makeup, doing your makeup first may help protect it from any hair products that may weigh it down or cause it to clump.

Secondly, consider the level of complexity and time commitment for each task. If you have a more intricate hairstyle planned, it may be better to focus on getting that done first before moving onto applying makeup. This will also prevent any potential mishaps with hair products ruining your finished makeup look.

Moreover, think about how long you want your overall look to last. Doing your hair first means it will have more time to set and hold throughout the day or event. However, if you sweat easily or have a long day ahead, doing your makeup first and then securing it with a setting spray

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Genny Wilkinson
Genny Wilkinson began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.