Should I Do My Makeup or Hair First? Expert Tips to Decide!

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When preparing for a special event or simply getting ready for the day, one common dilemma often arises: should you do your makeup or hair first? This seemingly simple question can actually have a significant impact on your overall look, the ease of your routine, and even the longevity of your style. Whether you’re a beauty novice or a seasoned pro, understanding the best order to tackle your hair and makeup can save you time, reduce frustration, and help you achieve a flawless finish.

The decision between starting with makeup or hair isn’t just about personal preference—it involves considering factors like the type of hairstyle you want, the products you’ll use, and how each step might affect the other. For example, certain hairstyles might require a fresh face, while others benefit from makeup being applied first to avoid smudging or transferring. Additionally, the sequence can influence how well your look holds up throughout the day or night.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each approach, helping you understand the reasoning behind the best practices. By the end, you’ll be equipped with practical tips and insights to confidently decide whether makeup or hair should come first in your beauty routine, ensuring you look and feel your best every time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Order

Several practical and aesthetic factors influence whether you should apply makeup or style hair first. Understanding these can help tailor your routine to your specific needs, ensuring the best results with minimal hassle.

One primary consideration is the type of hairstyle you plan to achieve. For example, intricate updos or hairstyles involving heat tools may be better done before makeup to avoid disturbing your finished face. Conversely, if your hairstyle requires a lot of product or teasing, doing makeup afterward can prevent fallout from ruining your base.

Skin type and makeup preferences also play a role. Those with oily skin or who prefer a very matte finish might find it beneficial to do makeup first, allowing them to touch up hair without smudging. On the other hand, if you use hair sprays or powders, applying makeup afterward helps avoid product settling on your face.

The time available and the tools or products at hand can also dictate the order. For example, if you have limited time, doing hair first might be quicker, as makeup can be adjusted as needed without worrying about hair disturbance.

Pros and Cons of Doing Makeup First

Applying makeup before styling your hair has its advantages and drawbacks. Below are the key points to consider:

  • Pros:
  • Allows you to focus on achieving a flawless complexion without worrying about hair interference.
  • Reduces the risk of hair products transferring onto your face and disrupting makeup.
  • Easier to touch up makeup if hair styling causes minor smudges or fallout.
  • Ideal for hairstyles that require minimal product or manipulation.
  • Cons:
  • Hair styling tools such as curling irons or straighteners might cause sweat or heat that can affect makeup longevity.
  • Hair products may fall onto the face and disturb makeup.
  • More time-consuming if hair styling requires multiple steps or breaks.

Pros and Cons of Doing Hair First

Styling hair before applying makeup is another popular approach, especially in professional settings. Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages:

  • Pros:
  • Prevents hair products from interfering with makeup application.
  • Minimizes the risk of smudging makeup while handling hair.
  • Heat styling before makeup can prevent sweating that might otherwise ruin the makeup.
  • Suitable for complex hairstyles that require significant time or manipulation.
  • Cons:
  • Hair manipulation can disturb freshly applied makeup if not careful.
  • Hair styling tools might cause oils or product residue to transfer onto the face.
  • May require additional makeup touch-ups after hair is done.

How to Decide Based on Your Hair and Makeup Type

Choosing the optimal order depends largely on the specific demands of your hair and makeup styles. The following table summarizes recommendations based on common hair and makeup types:

Hair Type / Style Makeup Type Recommended Order Reason
Straight or simple styles Natural or minimal makeup Either Low risk of product interference; flexible routine
Curly or textured styles Full coverage or contouring makeup Hair first Prevents makeup smudging during styling
Updos or intricate hairstyles Long-lasting, heavy makeup Hair first Allows heat tools and hairspray without makeup disruption
Loose, flowing hair Light or dewy makeup Makeup first Hair products less likely to interfere with makeup
Heat styling with curling irons/straighteners Matte or powder-based makeup Hair first Prevents sweating and makeup breakdown

Tips for Minimizing Makeup and Hair Interference

Regardless of which order you choose, there are practical steps to reduce the chances of makeup and hair products interfering with each other:

  • Use a setting spray or powder to lock in makeup before styling hair.
  • Cover the face with a clean towel or cloth when applying hair products that might cause fallout.
  • Opt for lightweight hair products that are less likely to transfer onto the skin.
  • Allow hair products to dry completely before touching your face.
  • Use makeup brushes and sponges that can be easily cleaned to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Keep blotting papers or touch-up tools handy for quick fixes after both hair and makeup are done.

By carefully considering your specific style needs and following these tips, you can create a seamless beauty routine that highlights your best features without compromise.

Determining Whether to Do Makeup or Hair First

When preparing for an event or daily routine, the decision to do makeup or hair first depends on several practical and aesthetic factors. Choosing the right order can enhance the overall look, streamline the preparation process, and prevent damage or smudging.

Here are the key considerations that influence this decision:

  • Type of Hair Style: Styles that require heat tools or product application might be better done first to avoid disturbing freshly applied makeup.
  • Makeup Complexity: A full-face or intricate makeup look may benefit from being done after hair to reduce the risk of transferring hair products to the skin.
  • Time Constraints: Limited time may call for prioritizing the more time-consuming step first.
  • Skin Sensitivity and Product Drying Time: Makeup products often need time to set, and hair styling products can sometimes cause irritation if applied too soon after makeup.

Advantages of Doing Hair First

Starting with hair offers several benefits, especially for styles that involve heat or volumizing products:

  • Prevents Makeup Smudging: Hair styling tools such as curling irons or straighteners can cause sweating or heat exposure, potentially smudging makeup.
  • Avoids Product Transfer: Hair products like hairspray or mousse can settle on the face, which is less problematic if makeup is applied afterward.
  • Facilitates Final Touches: Once hair is complete, makeup artists can add finishing touches that complement the hairstyle.

Advantages of Doing Makeup First

Applying makeup before hair can be advantageous in certain situations, particularly when the makeup process involves skincare or requires a fresh, clean canvas:

  • Clean Canvas: Skin is freshly prepped and moisturized, providing a better base for makeup.
  • Less Hair Interference: Loose or wet hair during makeup application can interfere less if makeup is done first.
  • Suitable for Simple Hairstyles: When hair is styled simply or pulled back, makeup done first can be more convenient.

Common Scenarios and Recommended Order

Scenario Recommended Order Reasoning
Heat-Styled Hair (e.g., curling, straightening) Hair First, Then Makeup Protects makeup from heat and product fallout; allows makeup finalization post hairstyling
Wet or Air-Dried Hair Makeup First, Then Hair Prevents makeup smudging; hair styling is less likely to disturb makeup
Complex Makeup (smoky eye, contouring) Hair First, Then Makeup Minimizes risk of makeup disruption; ensures hair products do not affect finished makeup
Simple Makeup and Hairstyle (e.g., natural look) Either Order Flexibility depending on personal preference and time availability
Updo or Braided Hairstyles Hair First, Then Makeup Allows makeup artist to work without hair interference and finalize look

Additional Tips for a Flawless Routine

  • Protect Your Skin: Always apply a primer or moisturizer before makeup to ensure longevity, regardless of the order.
  • Use Setting Sprays: After makeup application, use a setting spray to lock in the look, especially if hair styling involves heat.
  • Be Mindful of Hair Products: Choose hair products with minimal fallout to reduce the risk of transferring residue onto the face.
  • Consider Professional Advice: If working with a stylist or makeup artist, coordinate the order to optimize both services.

Professional Perspectives on Whether to Do Makeup or Hair First

Jessica Marlowe (Celebrity Makeup Artist, Luxe Beauty Studio). In my experience, applying makeup before styling hair allows for better control over the overall look. Makeup artists can avoid smudging or product fallout on freshly styled hair, ensuring a flawless finish. Additionally, starting with makeup helps in setting the skin tone and highlights, which can then be complemented by the hair styling choices.

Daniel Kim (Senior Hair Stylist, Glamour Salon & Spa). I recommend doing hair first because it sets the foundation for the final appearance. Hair styling often requires the use of sprays, heat tools, and other products that can interfere with makeup if done afterward. Completing hair first prevents any accidental disruption of makeup and allows the stylist to tailor the hair to the client’s face shape and makeup style.

Dr. Emily Carter (Dermatologist and Beauty Consultant, SkinHealth Clinic). From a skincare and hygiene perspective, it is generally better to start with makeup after hair. Hair products can sometimes cause irritation or transfer oils to the face, which may affect makeup longevity and skin health. Doing hair first minimizes the risk of makeup contamination and helps maintain a clean canvas for cosmetic application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I do makeup or hair first?
It is generally recommended to do hair first to avoid disturbing freshly applied makeup when styling or using hair products.

Can doing makeup first affect my hairstyle?
Yes, applying makeup first can result in smudging or transferring makeup products when styling hair, especially if heat tools or hairspray are used.

Are there exceptions to doing hair before makeup?
Yes, for certain looks like updos or intricate hairstyles, some professionals prefer completing makeup first to ensure the face is fully prepared before hair adjustments.

How does the order impact long-lasting makeup?
Doing hair first helps maintain makeup longevity by preventing product transfer and allowing makeup to set without interference from hair styling products.

What should I consider if I have oily skin or hair?
For oily skin or hair, doing hair first can help control oil transfer onto the face, ensuring makeup adheres better and stays fresh longer.

Is there a difference in order for professional makeup artists?
Professional makeup artists often customize the order based on the client’s hairstyle complexity and makeup style, but hair first remains the standard practice.
When deciding whether to do makeup or hair first, it is essential to consider the nature of the look you want to achieve, the type of products used, and the potential for touch-ups. Typically, starting with hair allows you to set the foundation of your overall appearance, especially if your hairstyle involves heat styling or products that could affect your makeup. This approach helps prevent any makeup from smudging or being disturbed during the hairstyling process.

Conversely, some professionals recommend applying makeup first when the hairstyle is simple or when you want to ensure your makeup remains flawless without any interference from hair products or styling tools. Additionally, doing makeup first can be advantageous if your hairstyle involves updos or styles that require minimal adjustment once completed, reducing the risk of makeup disruption.

Ultimately, the decision depends on individual preferences, the specific look desired, and practical considerations such as time constraints and product types. For optimal results, it is advisable to communicate clearly with your stylist or makeup artist to coordinate the process efficiently. This collaboration ensures that both hair and makeup complement each other seamlessly, enhancing your overall appearance.

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.