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

Step 1: Hydrate

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

Step 2: Highlight 

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

Step 3: Contour

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

Step 4: Blush

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

Step 5: Blend

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

Step 6: Set

Set lightly with Mary Kay® Translucent Loose Powder.

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

Close-up of brunette model with nude glossy lips looking upward

Five Steps to Finish the Look

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

FAQs

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

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.

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.

Shop the Technique

$50.00
Light 1​ (neutral undertones)
$28.00
$22.00

Siren Eyes

Glass Lips

Strawberry Makeup