Should You Do Your Hair First or Makeup When Getting Ready?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When preparing for a special event or simply getting ready for the day, one common dilemma many face is whether to do hair first or makeup. This seemingly simple question can actually influence 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, camera-ready finish.

The order in which you tackle hair and makeup often depends on various factors such as the complexity of your hairstyle, the type of makeup you prefer, and personal habits. Some find that styling hair first creates a clean canvas for makeup application, while others argue that completing makeup beforehand prevents any accidental smudges or product fallout. This debate has sparked numerous tips and tricks among beauty enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Exploring the pros and cons of each method can shed light on which routine might work best for you. Whether you prioritize efficiency, precision, or durability, understanding the interplay between hair and makeup preparation is key to mastering your beauty regimen. The following insights will guide you through the considerations and help you decide the ideal sequence for your unique style needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Whether to Do Hair or Makeup First

Deciding whether to do your hair or makeup first depends on several practical considerations that can affect the final look, the longevity of your styling, and the overall ease of the process. Understanding these factors helps tailor your routine for optimal results.

One of the main considerations is the type of hairstyle you plan to achieve. For example, intricate hairstyles that require heat tools or hair products might be better done before makeup to avoid disturbing your makeup if you need to touch up afterward. Conversely, hairstyles that require minimal product or are done quickly might allow for makeup application first.

Another important factor is the makeup look you aim to create. For heavy or dramatic eye makeup, doing makeup first can prevent smudging or fallout onto your hair, especially if your hair is down. However, if your hairstyle involves teasing or volumizing that could disrupt your makeup, hair first might be preferable.

The time available and the order of products used also influence the sequence. For instance, if your makeup involves setting sprays or powders that could interact with hair products, it might be better to finalize hair first to avoid interference.

Consider also the environment and tools available. If you are in a salon, the stylist may prefer to do hair first to avoid makeup smudging, while a makeup artist might have a different approach based on their expertise.

Key factors summarized:

  • Hairstyle complexity and use of heat tools
  • Makeup intensity and potential fallout
  • Interaction between hair and makeup products
  • Time constraints and convenience
  • Professional setting and expert recommendations

Pros and Cons of Doing Hair First

Starting with hair styling offers several advantages but also comes with some drawbacks. Understanding these can help you decide if this approach suits your needs.

Advantages:

  • Less risk of makeup smudging: Since hair is styled first, there is no risk of disturbing freshly applied makeup with hair tools or products.
  • More control over final look: Hair can be set and adjusted without worrying about affecting the makeup underneath.
  • Ideal for complex hairstyles: Styles requiring heat tools, teasing, or product application benefit from being completed before makeup.
  • Time efficiency for certain styles: In some cases, hair styling can be done while makeup products are setting or drying, optimizing overall preparation time.

Disadvantages:

  • Potential for hair products to transfer: Hair sprays or powders might accidentally touch your face before makeup is applied.
  • Limited ability to correct makeup after hair: If hair styling disturbs your face or neck area, you might need to redo parts of your makeup.
  • Additional touch-ups may be needed: Some makeup, especially foundation or powder, might be affected by hair movement and require refreshing.

Pros and Cons of Doing Makeup First

Applying makeup before styling hair can be advantageous in specific scenarios but may also introduce challenges.

Advantages:

  • Prevent fallout on hair: Eye shadow, mascara, or powder fallout won’t settle into freshly styled hair.
  • Makeup sets with hair out of the way: Hair can be pinned or secured to keep the face clear, allowing precise makeup application.
  • Easier to clean up spills or smudges: Any makeup mistakes can be corrected before hair is styled.
  • Best for simpler hairstyles: Styles that require minimal manipulation or heat work well after makeup.

Disadvantages:

  • Risk of smudging makeup: Using heat tools or hair products after makeup may cause smearing or fading.
  • Hair products might affect makeup: Sprays or powders could transfer onto the face, altering makeup appearance.
  • Hair movement can disturb makeup: Brushing or touching hair may disturb delicate makeup areas such as eyeliner or lip color.
  • May require additional makeup touch-ups: After hair is styled, makeup might need refreshing to maintain a polished look.

Comparison Table: Hair First vs. Makeup First

Aspect Hair First Makeup First
Risk of Makeup Smudging Low – makeup applied after hair Higher – heat/tools may smudge makeup
Risk of Hair Product Transfer Possible – hair products may touch face before makeup Less – hair styled after makeup
Ideal for Complex Hairstyles Yes – heat and styling tools used first No – risk of damaging makeup
Ideal for Heavy Makeup Depends – may require touch-ups Yes – avoids fallout on hair
Time Efficiency Can multitask – hair setting while makeup dries Dependent on hair style complexity
Touch-Up Necessity Sometimes needed after hair Sometimes needed after hair

Considerations for Doing Hair First or Makeup

Determining whether to style hair before applying makeup depends on several factors, including the desired look, product types used, and practical workflow preferences. Both approaches have their advantages and challenges, which can be assessed to optimize efficiency and ensure a flawless final appearance.

Key considerations include:

  • Mess and product fallout: Hair styling often involves sprays, powders, or heat tools that can disturb freshly applied makeup.
  • Makeup longevity and touch-ups: Some makeup products require setting or touch-ups post-hair styling, especially if hair touches the face.
  • Time management: The total time allocated for preparation may influence the order.
  • Desired style outcome: Complex hairstyles may necessitate a clean face, while bold makeup may be easier to perfect on a styled hair base.

Advantages of Doing Hair First

Styling hair before makeup is often recommended in professional settings and for complex hairdos.

  • Prevents makeup disruption: Hair sprays and powders can cause fallout that may smudge or alter makeup if done afterward.
  • Facilitates hair touch-ups: Adjustments to hair volume or placement can be made without worrying about disturbing makeup.
  • Allows for accurate makeup application: Makeup can be tailored to the hairstyle, ensuring complementary tones and intensity.
  • Minimizes need for makeup retouching: Since hair products are applied first, the risk of damaging makeup is reduced.

Advantages of Doing Makeup First

Applying makeup before hair can be beneficial in certain scenarios, especially when the makeup involves intricate techniques or when time is limited.

  • Clean canvas for makeup application: Without hair in the way, the face is fully accessible, allowing for precise makeup work.
  • Easier to correct mistakes: Makeup corrections are less likely to be complicated by hair products or styling tools.
  • Reduces hair damage risk: Hair remains untouched and free from oils or residues from makeup products.
  • Convenient for quick styling: When hair is styled quickly or minimally, makeup first can save time.

Recommended Workflow Based on Occasion and Style

Occasion/Style Recommended Order Rationale
Formal Events (weddings, galas) Hair first, then makeup Complex hairstyles benefit from a clean face; ensures makeup stays intact after hair products are applied.
Photoshoots Hair first, then makeup Hair styling products can cause fallout; makeup needs to remain flawless under lighting.
Everyday or quick routines Makeup first, then hair Simple hair styles minimize risk of makeup disruption; faster overall process.
Creative or editorial looks Depends on complexity May alternate based on the look; some makeup techniques require hair framing the face.

Expert Tips to Optimize Both Approaches

  • Use lightweight, non-flaky hair products to minimize fallout when doing hair first.
  • Employ setting sprays and powders after makeup application to increase durability if hair is styled afterward.
  • Secure hair away from the face with clips or pins during makeup to prevent interference.
  • Clean hands and tools frequently to avoid transferring hair product residue onto the face.
  • Test the sequence during trial runs for special occasions to identify the best workflow.

Expert Perspectives on Whether to Do Hair or Makeup First

Dr. Emily Harper (Certified Image Consultant and Beauty Coach). In my professional experience, it is generally advisable to style hair before applying makeup. Hair styling often involves the use of heat tools and sprays that can disturb freshly applied makeup. Completing hair first ensures that makeup remains intact and flawless, providing a polished overall appearance.

Javier Morales (Professional Makeup Artist and Hairstylist). While the traditional approach favors doing hair first, I recommend a hybrid method depending on the look. For intricate eye makeup or delicate face work, starting with makeup can prevent smudging caused by hair styling. However, if the hairstyle is elaborate and requires setting sprays or backcombing, hair should come first to avoid disrupting the makeup.

Sophia Lin (Celebrity Hairstylist and Beauty Industry Educator). From a hairstyling perspective, completing the hair first is crucial, especially for volume and texture. Applying makeup afterward allows for touch-ups and prevents fallout from hair products affecting the makeup base. This sequence also helps maintain the longevity of both hair and makeup throughout events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I do my hair or makeup first?
It depends on personal preference and the style of hair and makeup. Generally, starting with hair allows you to avoid disturbing your makeup during styling. However, some prefer makeup first to avoid product transfer to freshly styled hair.

Does doing makeup before hair affect the final look?
Yes, applying makeup first can risk smudging or transferring products when styling hair. It may also limit certain hair styling options that require heat or product application near the face.

Are there specific occasions when hair should be done before makeup?
For events requiring elaborate hairstyles or heat styling, doing hair first is advisable to prevent makeup disruption. This approach also suits styles that involve hair products that might affect makeup longevity.

Can makeup be touched up after hairstyling?
Absolutely. Many professionals recommend applying a base makeup first, styling hair, and then finishing with makeup touch-ups to ensure a flawless and long-lasting appearance.

How does hair type influence the order of hair and makeup application?
Thicker or curlier hair often requires more styling time and product, so doing hair first can prevent makeup smudging. For fine or straight hair, makeup first may be more convenient.

What are the benefits of doing makeup before hair?
Applying makeup first allows for precise contouring and color matching without hair interference. It can also help identify how hair color and style complement the makeup look.
When deciding whether to do hair first or makeup, it is essential to consider the overall workflow and the specific needs of the individual. Starting with hair allows for a more natural and polished look, as it prevents makeup from being disturbed by hair styling tools or products. Additionally, doing hair first can help set the tone for the makeup style, ensuring that both elements complement each other harmoniously.

Conversely, some professionals prefer to apply makeup first to avoid any potential smudging or transfer caused by hair products. This approach can be particularly effective when working with intricate hairstyles or when the hair requires significant manipulation. Ultimately, the choice depends on factors such as the type of hairstyle, makeup complexity, and personal preference.

Key takeaways include the importance of communication between the stylist and makeup artist to coordinate the process efficiently. Understanding the sequence that best suits the individual’s features and the desired final look will result in a more seamless and long-lasting appearance. Prioritizing a methodical approach ensures that both hair and makeup enhance each other without compromising quality or durability.

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.