Trends & Techniques

Underpainting

Glowing skin is in, and there’s no better way to get it than with the underpainting technique. All you do is apply facial oil and cream-based makeup before foundation for cloud skin that radiates.

Get the Look

Bottle of Mary Kay Nourishing Oil next to a dropper with oil coming out

Step 1: Hydrate

Apply Mary Kay® Nourishing Oil to your skin after your skin care routine.

Swatch of Mary Kay Multi-Benefit Concealer in a light shade

Step 2: Highlight

On the high points of your face, apply a light shade of Mary Kay® Multi-Benefit Concealer.

Swatch of Mary Kay Multi-Benefit Concealer in a dark shade

Step 3: Contour

Apply a darker shade of Mary Kay® Multi-Benefit Concealer to the hollow points of your face.

Side-view of model with makeup swipes on her face

Step 4: Blush

Swipe special-edition† Mary Kay® Blush Stick in Spark Change on the apples of your cheeks.

Overhead shot of product swipes and swatches against a gray background

Step 5: Blend

Tap TimeWise® Luminous 3D Foundation onto the center of your face and blend outward.

Close-up of model posing with underpainted makeup

Step 6: Cover

Set lightly with Mary Kay® Translucent Loose Powder.

†Available while supplies last

The underpainting technique reverses the traditional makeup application order to achieve dewy, glowy skin.

Use black or brown Eyeliner to define your lashlines for a subtle, everyday look.
Layer with neutral Eye Shadow shades for a soft, natural finish
Pair with volumizing or lengthening Mascara to make your lashes look fuller and longer.
Fill in sparse areas with Brow Liner, and set with a Tinted Brow Gel for perfectly groomed brows.
Finish with Lip Gloss in a natural shade for a polished, effortless look.

Rows of makeup product swipes in various shades against a light background

Brunette model posing with underpainted makeup

Close-up of a model with gold hoop earrings smiling

FAQs

What is underpainting with makeup?

The underpainting method is one in which cream-based makeup is applied before foundation, rather than after.

Who started underpainting makeup?

The concept of underpainting started a while back, but it has recently become a TikTok makeup trend, thanks to a handful of celebrity makeup artists.

What is the best shade for underpainting makeup?

In general, it’s best to highlight your face with a liquid concealer that is two shades lighter than your natural skin tone. This helps give a brighter, more even appearance.