Should You Do Your Hair or Makeup First for the Best Results?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When getting ready for a special occasion or even just a regular day, one common dilemma many face is whether to do their hair or makeup first. This seemingly simple question can actually have a significant impact on the overall look, the ease of the routine, and even the longevity of your style. Understanding the best approach can save time, reduce frustration, and help you achieve a polished, flawless finish.

The order in which you tackle your hair and makeup often depends on various factors such as your hair type, makeup style, and the products you use. Some beauty enthusiasts swear by doing their hair first to avoid smudging freshly applied makeup, while others prefer to start with makeup to ensure a clean canvas and precise application. This ongoing debate highlights how personal preferences and practical considerations intertwine in the beauty routine.

Exploring the pros and cons of each method can offer valuable insights and help you tailor your routine to suit your individual needs. Whether you’re aiming for a quick everyday look or preparing for an elaborate event, understanding the dynamics between hair and makeup application is key to mastering your beauty regimen.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Order

Deciding whether to do your hair or makeup first largely depends on personal preference, the style you aim to achieve, and practical considerations surrounding your routine. Understanding these factors can help optimize your preparation process and ensure the best results.

One key factor is the type of hairstyle you plan to create. If your hair requires significant styling involving heat tools like curling irons or straighteners, it’s often better to do your hair first. This reduces the risk of heat damage to your makeup or disturbing freshly applied products. On the other hand, if your hairstyle is simple or involves minimal heat, starting with makeup can be convenient.

Another factor is the potential for product fallout. For example, when applying eyeshadow or mascara, there can be powder or liquid fallout that might smudge or ruin your makeup base. Doing hair first prevents the need for touch-ups after any fallout occurs.

The time available for your routine is also important. If you’re in a hurry, opting to complete the faster step first—often makeup—may help you feel ready sooner. Conversely, if you have ample time, following the conventional approach of hair first can offer a more polished look.

Finally, consider your skin type and makeup products. Applying makeup after hair can sometimes lead to product transfer if you have long hair that brushes against your face. Using hair products with minimal residue or tying hair back during makeup application can mitigate this.

Benefits of Doing Hair Before Makeup

Starting with your hair has several advantages that contribute to a seamless beauty routine:

  • Prevents makeup smudging: Styling hair first eliminates the risk of hair products or heat tools affecting your makeup.
  • Allows for hair product setting: Hair products such as sprays or serums can settle without worrying about disturbing your makeup.
  • Reduces need for touch-ups: Since hair styling can create some fallout or require adjustments, completing it first minimizes redoing makeup.
  • Better overall control: This approach gives you a clear idea of your final look, allowing you to tailor your makeup to complement your hairstyle.

Additionally, hair styling often involves heat, which can cause sweating or skin irritation. Doing it first lets your skin calm down before makeup application.

Benefits of Doing Makeup Before Hair

Conversely, there are situations where applying makeup before hair is advantageous:

  • Avoids product transfer: Makeup applied first is less likely to be smudged by hair brushes or styling.
  • Easier to focus on face: Without hair in the way, makeup application—especially around the forehead and hairline—is smoother.
  • Useful for quick touch-ups: If you need a fast refresh, makeup first can speed up the process.
  • Ideal for simple hairstyles: When styling is minimal, makeup first maximizes efficiency.

This order is often favored by those who prefer a light, natural look and minimal hair manipulation.

Comparison of Hair-First and Makeup-First Approaches

Aspect Hair First Makeup First
Risk of smudging makeup Low Higher
Ease of makeup application Moderate (hair can get in the way) High (face unobstructed)
Time efficiency Can be longer due to touch-ups Often quicker for simple styles
Suitability for complex hairstyles Better Less ideal
Potential product fallout impact Minimal Possible

Tips for Combining Both Approaches

Sometimes, a hybrid method works best, where initial makeup steps are done before hair, and finishing touches are applied afterward. Consider the following tips:

  • Apply primer and foundation first: This creates a base without risking disturbance from hair styling.
  • Do eye makeup after hair: This prevents powder fallout from ruining your hairstyle or base makeup.
  • Use hair clips or ties: Keep hair away from your face during makeup for cleaner application.
  • Set makeup with spray after hair: This helps lock in your look once hair and makeup are complete.

By breaking down your routine into stages, you can enjoy the benefits of both orders while minimizing their drawbacks.

Determining Whether to Do Hair or Makeup First

Choosing whether to do your hair or makeup first depends on several factors, including your hair type, the complexity of your hairstyle, the type of makeup look you want to achieve, and the overall timeline of your preparation. Understanding these considerations can help you create a seamless routine that enhances your final appearance.

Key Factors Influencing the Order

  • Hair Texture and Style: For styles requiring heat tools or products that may cause hair to shed or create residue (such as hairspray or dry shampoo), doing hair first is often advantageous to avoid disturbing your makeup.
  • Makeup Complexity: If your makeup involves intricate eye work, such as smoky eyes or heavy eyeshadow, doing makeup first can prevent fallout from ruining styled hair.
  • Product Interactions: Certain hair products can transfer onto the face, potentially smudging makeup. Prioritizing hair can minimize this risk.
  • Time Management: Consider how much time you have. If drying hair or waiting for products to set is necessary, doing hair first allows makeup to be applied fresh and undisturbed afterward.

Advantages of Doing Hair First

Starting with your hair is a preferred method for many professionals, especially when using heat tools or styling products. This approach offers several benefits:

  • Prevents Makeup Smudging: Hair styling can involve movements or products that may accidentally disturb your makeup.
  • Allows Time for Hair Products to Set: Products like mousse, gel, or hairspray need time to dry and hold their shape without interference.
  • Reduces Hair Product Transfer: Styling products are less likely to rub off onto your face if hair is done before makeup.
  • Facilitates Final Touch-ups: Makeup can be refreshed after hair is done, ensuring a flawless finish.

Advantages of Doing Makeup First

In some cases, applying makeup first may be more practical or desirable, such as when your hair is naturally styled or requires minimal effort. Benefits include:

  • Prevents Hair from Interfering with Makeup Application: Loose hair can get in the way or cause smudging if makeup is applied afterward.
  • Allows for a Fresh Look After Hair Styling: If your hairstyle is simple and unlikely to disturb makeup, starting with makeup can speed up your routine.
  • Facilitates Quick Touch-ups: If you need to redo your hair, your makeup remains intact.

Comparison Table: Hair First vs. Makeup First

Aspect Hair First Makeup First
Best For Heat-styled or heavily product-treated hair Minimal or natural hair styles
Product Residue Risk Low risk of hair product transferring to face Potential for hair oils or sprays to disturb makeup
Makeup Longevity Makeup stays fresh when applied last May need touch-ups after hair styling
Time Efficiency Hair drying or setting time included before makeup Faster if hair requires minimal styling
Fallout Management Less concern as makeup is applied after hair Risk of eyeshadow fallout spoiling makeup

Expert Perspectives on Whether to Do Hair or Makeup First

Dr. Elena Martinez (Certified Image Consultant and Beauty Coach). In my professional experience, it is generally advisable to style your hair first before applying makeup. Hair styling can sometimes involve the use of products or tools that may disturb freshly applied makeup, such as hairspray or heat tools. Completing your hair first helps ensure your makeup remains intact and flawless throughout the styling process.

Jamal Rivers (Professional Makeup Artist and Founder of GlamPro Studios). I recommend doing makeup before hair because it allows you to focus on creating a clean, precise canvas for your face without worrying about hair interfering. Additionally, when makeup is done first, you can adjust your hairstyle to complement the makeup’s finish and overall look, achieving better harmony between both elements.

Sophia Lin (Hairstylist and Beauty Industry Educator). From a hairstyling perspective, the order depends largely on the look you want to achieve. For intricate hairstyles involving accessories or volume, doing hair first is practical to avoid smudging makeup. However, for styles requiring minimal touch-ups or simple finishes, makeup first can save time and allow for final adjustments after hair is complete. Ultimately, the choice should be tailored to the occasion and individual preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should you do your hair or makeup first?
It is generally recommended to do your hair first to avoid disturbing your makeup. Styling hair can involve products or tools that might affect makeup application.

Does doing makeup first affect your hairstyle?
Applying makeup first can lead to smudging or transferring when styling hair, especially if heat tools or hair products are used afterward.

Are there exceptions to doing hair before makeup?
Yes, if your makeup routine involves heavy eye makeup or waterproof products, some prefer makeup first to avoid hair products interfering with the look.

How does the type of hairstyle influence the order?
Complex hairstyles requiring heat or product application benefit from being done first, as these can disrupt freshly applied makeup.

Can doing hair first save time during preparation?
Yes, completing hair styling before makeup can streamline the process and reduce the need for touch-ups, making overall preparation more efficient.

What should be considered when choosing the order?
Consider the hairstyle complexity, makeup style, and personal preference to determine the most practical sequence for your routine.
Deciding whether to do your hair or makeup first largely depends on personal preference, the specific look you aim to achieve, and practical considerations. Generally, starting with hair allows you to set the foundation for your overall style, ensuring that your makeup complements your hairstyle without risk of smudging or disruption. However, some professionals advocate for applying makeup first to avoid any hair products interfering with your makeup application and to allow for easier touch-ups later.

It is important to consider the type of hairstyle and makeup you plan to wear. For example, if your hairstyle requires heat styling or involves products that might affect your face, doing hair first can prevent makeup from being compromised. Conversely, if your makeup involves intricate eye or lip work, applying it first can help you focus on precision without worrying about hair getting in the way. Ultimately, the decision should be guided by what workflow minimizes mess and maximizes efficiency.

Key takeaways include the importance of understanding your routine, the products you use, and your desired outcome. Experimenting with both approaches can help identify what works best for your unique needs. Maintaining flexibility and adapting your process ensures a polished and long-lasting look, whether for everyday wear or special occasions. Consulting with beauty professionals can also provide tailored

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.