Redhead Makeup 101: How To Apply Makeup Products

Updated: September 12th, 2023

Redhead makeup application comes with practice, and over time we all come up with our own techniques and methods that work for us. But if you’re starting out or you’re struggling with your application, it’s nice to get back to the basics. The first step is nailing down the correct order to apply makeup products. Concealer after foundation? Blush before eyebrows? The order in which you should apply your makeup is a controversial topic, largely due to the differing opinions on what products should land on your face first.

But don’t fear, redheads—we’re breaking down the exact sequence for putting on makeup to help take out some of the guesswork. We’re breaking it down by glam or everyday makeup and providing a step-by-step application guide.

Where to start? After going through your redhead skincare routine (check out the correct order to apply your skincare products) consider the texture and staying power of what you put on next, and don’t be afraid to slightly alter the process to make it work for you. Here’s the 7-step order you should be applying your redhead makeup, based on night or day:

Steps for Full Redhead Glam:

Let’s start out with the most fun of looks: GLAM! If you’re going for a full eyeshadow look, this is the best way to avoid messing anything up and having to start over. This is often the order in which you will find makeup artists doing their clients’ makeup.

Primer – Prep the skin for the application of your face products.
Brows & Eyes – Doing the eyes before the foundation means you’re able to clean up any fall-out from your eyeshadow without ruining your foundation. This also means you can carve around the brows nicely with Finally Have Brows. Start with shadow, then eyeliner, Finally Have Lashes mascara, and false lashes.
Foundation – Once your eyes are done and cleaned up, start in with your face makeup. Using a damp makeup sponge, apply your foundation and let it set for 1-2 minutes.
Concealer – Next, conceal any blemishes, under-eye bags, or discoloration.
Blush, Bronzer & Highlight – The order you do these products doesn’t always matter but remember to do all your cream products before your powder products.
Lips – Start with liner, then lipstick, and finish with gloss if needed.
Setting Powder/Spray – You can use both or just one to finish the look.

Steps for Everyday Redhead Makeup:

If you keep it a little more lowkey for your everyday look, these steps will work. If you do a full eyeshadow look every day, try the steps above. The steps below can also be used for a “no makeup” look, just omit the products you don’t want to use.

Primer – Prep the skin for the application of your face products.
Foundation – For a more everyday look, you won’t really need to worry about much cleanup from the eyes so it’s fine to start right in with your face products. You can also swap your foundation for a tinted moisturizer or skin tint for a “no makeup” look.
Concealer – Focus on the under eyes and any blemishes, and be sure to blend out fully.
Blush, Bronzer & Highlight – For a more natural look, opt for a lighter hand on these products to avoid making it feel heavy and overdone. Again, make sure you do all your cream products before heading into powder ones.
Brows & Eyes – Swipe on a simple Finally Have Brows brow gel and add some Finally Have Lashes mascara.
Lips – Top off your look with some lip gloss, tinted chapstick, or neutral lip color.
Setting Powder/Spray – You can use both or just one to finish the look.

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