5 Tips from a Professional Makeup Artist (That Make a Real Difference)

Let’s cut through the noise—makeup doesn’t have to be complicated to look amazing. You don’t need a 40-step routine or the newest drop from every brand. What you do need? A few smart techniques that actually work.

Here are 5 tips I swear by—simple, effective, and totally doable, whether you're headed to work, date night, or just feeling yourself on a random Tuesday.

1. Great Makeup Starts with Great Skin Prep

If your skin isn’t prepped, even the fanciest foundation won’t sit right. Think of it like laying down the perfect canvas. Hydration is non-negotiable.💧 Pro tip: Moisturizer first, then primer (if you’re using one), and always—yes, always—wear SPF. You can even try mixing in your products with your skincare - be sure to leave time to let it fully soak in.

2. Stop Overusing Your Concealer

Concealer is meant to correct, not cover your whole face. Focus on the darkest spots (usually near the inner corners of the eyes), let it sit for a few seconds, then blend it out.✨ Light hand, small brush, even layers = big results.

3. The Right Tools Make You Better—Not Busier

You don’t need a dozen brushes, just the right ones. A good blending brush, a damp sponge, and a detail brush can get you through almost anything. Good basics are a good quality pencil sharpener that really sharpens & brushes that blend without pulling & distribute evenly. Be sure to pay attention to cleanliness and keep your brushes clean by washing them & spraying products with 70% alcohol. 🎨 Tip: Let the tool do the work. Press gently and blend with short, circular motions.

4. Blush Is Your Shortcut to Looking Alive

A little color on the cheeks makes you look instantly refreshed. Feeling tired? Dull? Boring? Blush.🌸 Layer cream blush under powder for color that lasts all day without fading.

5. Know When to Dial It Up—and When to Let It Breathe

Want to rock a red lip? Let the eyes stay soft. Going for a smoky eye? Pair it with a neutral lip. But if you want to go bold everywhere, do it. Just make it intentional.💋 Makeup should feel like you, only a little extra.

Extra Hot Tip straight from Set: I like to set makeup with loose translucent setting powder, worked into with a powder puff, gently pressing it into any high shine areas and only then spritz a hydrating spray like rose water all over for the most natural finish. I repeat the above when shiny or dry to refresh the skin.

Final Thought:

Makeup should never feel like pressure. It’s a tool, not a test. Use it to highlight what you love, experiment when you feel like it, and most importantly—have fun with it.