Which Should You Do First: Hair or Makeup?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Makeup & Cosmetics

When getting ready for a special event or even just a regular day, one common dilemma many face is deciding whether to do their hair or makeup first. This seemingly simple question can actually have a big 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 that flawless finish you’re aiming for.

The order in which you tackle your hair and makeup often depends on several factors, including the style you want to achieve, the products you use, and your personal preferences. Some people prefer to start with hair to avoid disturbing their makeup later, while others find that doing makeup first helps them avoid smudges or product transfer. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but exploring the pros and cons of each method can guide you toward the routine that works best for you.

In the sections ahead, we’ll delve into the reasons behind each approach, consider different hair and makeup styles, and share tips to help you streamline your beauty routine. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, understanding the dynamics between hair and makeup application will empower you to look and feel your best every time.

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

The decision to do hair or makeup first depends on several practical considerations. Understanding these factors will help you streamline your routine and achieve the best results without having to redo any part of your look.

One important factor is the type of hairstyle you plan to create. If your hairstyle involves heat styling, such as curling or straightening, it’s often better to do your hair first. The heat can cause makeup to smudge or melt if applied beforehand. Conversely, if your hair is going to be pinned up or styled in a way that requires minimal heat, doing makeup first might save time.

Another consideration is the type of makeup look. For example, if you’re applying a bold or complex eye makeup look, doing makeup first can prevent hair products from interfering with your eye area. On the other hand, if your makeup is minimal and natural, starting with hair might be more efficient.

Additionally, the products you use for both hair and makeup can influence the order. Some hair products contain oils or sprays that can transfer onto the face and affect makeup application. Similarly, certain makeup products like powders or setting sprays might disturb freshly styled hair.

Environmental and timing factors also play a role. If you expect to be in a humid or warm environment, completing hair first can avoid makeup smudging due to heat from styling tools. If you’re short on time, focusing on the more complex or time-consuming step first ensures you don’t have to rush either process.

Practical Tips for Doing Hair and Makeup in the Optimal Order

To maximize efficiency and maintain a polished appearance, consider these practical tips when deciding the order of your hair and makeup routine:

  • Start with a clean face and hair: Ensure both your skin and hair are clean and prepped. This foundation helps products adhere better and last longer.
  • Use protective products: Apply heat protectant sprays before styling hair to shield strands from damage and prevent product transfer onto your face.
  • Apply base makeup after hair styling: Since hair styling may involve sprays or creams, completing your hair first reduces the risk of makeup smudging or transfer.
  • Keep makeup tools and products organized: Having your makeup and hair tools readily accessible minimizes time and reduces the chance of mistakes.
  • Allow hair products to dry fully: Before applying makeup, wait for hairspray or other styling products to set to avoid interference with makeup application.
  • Touch up as needed: After finishing both hair and makeup, inspect your look and make any necessary adjustments to ensure both complement each other seamlessly.

Comparison Table: Hair First vs. Makeup First

Aspect Hair First Makeup First
Best for Heat-styled hair; complex hairstyles Elaborate makeup looks; minimal hair styling
Pros Prevents makeup smudging from heat; hair products won’t disturb makeup Avoids hair products transferring onto face; makeup sets without interference
Cons Hair products may transfer to face; requires waiting for products to dry Heat styling can smudge makeup; risk of messing up makeup during hair styling
Best for time management When hair styling takes longer and requires precision When makeup application is more detailed and time-consuming

Determining Whether to Do Hair or Makeup First

When deciding whether to style your hair or apply makeup first, several practical considerations come into play. The optimal sequence depends on factors such as the type of hairstyle, makeup products used, and your overall routine preferences. Understanding these elements will help you achieve a polished look with minimal rework.

Key considerations include:

  • Hair styling method: Heat tools, such as curling irons or straighteners, may require working on dry, product-free hair before makeup application.
  • Makeup type and finish: Cream-based or setting sprays can affect hair if done first, while powder makeup might create fallout on freshly styled hair.
  • Time efficiency: Some prefer to complete makeup first to avoid smudging after handling hair, while others prefer hair first to prevent makeup transfer.
  • Potential for product transfer: Hair products like hairspray or dry shampoo might disturb makeup if applied afterward.

Advantages of Doing Hair Before Makeup

Starting with hair styling provides several benefits, especially if your routine involves heat tools or voluminous hairstyles.

  • Minimizes makeup smudging: Styling hair first reduces the chance of transferring hair products onto your face and disturbing your makeup.
  • Allows product settling: Hair sprays and texturizers have time to dry and settle without affecting the makeup finish.
  • Facilitates final touch-ups: You can clean up any fallout or stray hairs before applying makeup.
  • Prevents heat damage to makeup: Heat from styling tools won’t melt or alter makeup applied beforehand.

Advantages of Doing Makeup Before Hair

Applying makeup before hair can be advantageous in certain scenarios, particularly when using powder products or simple hairstyles.

  • Eases hair manipulation: Without heavy hair products, hair is easier to manage and style, avoiding buildup.
  • Prevents product transfer: Makeup is less likely to be disturbed by hair products like dry shampoo or hairspray.
  • Allows for precise makeup application: Hair is out of the face, reducing the risk of hair strands sticking to freshly applied foundation or concealer.
  • Facilitates touch-ups: Minor hair adjustments won’t interfere with makeup layering.

Factors Influencing the Best Sequence

Factor Hair First Advantage Makeup First Advantage
Use of heat styling tools Prevents makeup melting or smudging N/A
Powder vs cream makeup Reduces powder fallout on hair Prevents hair product transfer on cream makeup
Hairstyle complexity Allows for product setting and touch-ups Keeps hair product-free for easy styling
Time constraints One less step to re-do if hair affects makeup Quick hair fixes without makeup disturbance

Expert Recommendations for Different Hair and Makeup Types

Depending on your hair texture and makeup preferences, the following guidelines can enhance your routine efficiency and final look:

  • Curly or textured hair: Style hair first to lock in definition and avoid disturbing makeup during touch-ups.
  • Sleek or straight hair: Either sequence works, but doing makeup first can help prevent hair product buildup near the hairline.
  • Heavy or full-coverage makeup: Style hair first to avoid smudging or melting makeup.
  • Natural or minimal makeup: Applying makeup first may be more convenient for quick touch-ups after hair styling.
  • Use of hairspray or dry shampoo: Complete hair styling before makeup application to minimize product transfer.

Professional Perspectives on Whether to Do Hair or Makeup First

Dr. Emily Carter (Cosmetology Research Specialist, Beauty Science Institute). When deciding whether to do hair or makeup first, it is generally advisable to start with hair. Styling hair first prevents any accidental disruption of makeup, especially foundation and eye makeup, which can be sensitive to hair products or heat tools. This sequence ensures a cleaner, longer-lasting makeup application.

Marcus Lee (Celebrity Hairstylist and Image Consultant). From a hairstyling perspective, completing hair first allows for better control over the overall look. Hair products like sprays and serums can transfer onto the face, potentially ruining freshly applied makeup. By finishing hair first, you minimize the risk of smudging and maintain the integrity of your makeup throughout the styling process.

Sophia Nguyen (Professional Makeup Artist and Beauty Educator). While many prefer hair first, I recommend applying makeup before hair when working with intricate hairstyles that involve hair accessories or updos. Makeup can be adjusted to complement the hairstyle, and doing makeup first reduces the chance of hair interfering with the application. Ultimately, the choice depends on the specific look and personal workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I do my hair or makeup first for a long-lasting look?
It is generally recommended to do your hair first to avoid disturbing your makeup when styling. However, if your hairstyle requires heat tools, applying makeup afterward can prevent smudging.

Does the order of hair and makeup affect the final appearance?
Yes, doing hair first allows you to frame your face properly, which can influence makeup placement and enhance overall balance and symmetry.

Can doing makeup before hair cause any issues?
Applying makeup before hair can lead to smudging or transfer, especially if you use heat styling tools or hair products that might affect your makeup’s longevity.

Is it better to do makeup first for certain hairstyles?
For hairstyles that involve minimal manipulation or no heat, doing makeup first is acceptable. For intricate or heat-intensive styles, hair should be done first to preserve makeup integrity.

How does skin type influence the order of hair and makeup application?
Individuals with oily skin may benefit from doing makeup after hair to avoid excess product transfer, while those with dry skin can follow either order based on personal comfort and routine.

What professional makeup artists recommend regarding hair and makeup order?
Most professionals advise completing hair styling before makeup to ensure a polished, long-lasting finish and to prevent any accidental makeup disruption during hairstyling.
Deciding whether to do your hair or makeup first largely depends on your personal routine, the type of hairstyle and makeup look you aim to achieve, and the products you plan to use. Generally, starting with makeup allows you to avoid disturbing your hair with touch-ups, especially when applying foundation or powder. Conversely, styling your hair first can be beneficial if your hair routine involves products or tools that might affect your makeup, such as hairspray or heat styling that could cause makeup smudging.

It is important to consider the specific demands of your look. For instance, if your hairstyle requires significant heat styling or the use of strong-hold products, doing hair first can prevent makeup from being compromised. On the other hand, if your makeup involves intricate eye work or contouring, completing it first can ensure a flawless finish without worrying about hair interference. Additionally, the time required for each step and the potential for product transfer should guide your decision.

Ultimately, the choice between doing hair or makeup first should align with your comfort and the desired outcome. Experimenting with both sequences can help identify what works best for your routine and skin/hair type. Maintaining a flexible approach and adapting based on the occasion or look will ensure a polished and long

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.