Halloween is the perfect time to get creative with makeup, from spooky glam to playful pop culture looks. But no matter your costume, healthy, well-prepped skin is the key to ensuring your makeup looks flawless and your skin stays radiant.
Here’s your ultimate guide to prepping your skin for a flawless Halloween glow:
Step 1: Cleanse and Exfoliate
Before applying any heavy makeup, start with a clean slate:
- Gentle Cleanser: Use a cleanser that suits your skin type to remove dirt, oil and leftover products. This ensures makeup adheres smoothly.
- Exfoliation: A light chemical exfoliant (like a gentle AHA or BHA) or a mild scrub removes dead skin cells, creating a smooth surface. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate sensitive skin.
Tip: If you’re planning a multi-layered or prosthetic-heavy look, exfoliation 24 hours before ensures your skin won’t be red or irritated on the big day.
Try:
- iS Clinical Cleansing Complex – a cult-favourite gentle gel cleanser that refines skin texture without stripping.
- Isdinceutics Glicoisdin – a mild glycolic exfoliating treatment to smooth and prep the skin.
Step 2: Hydrate and Prime
Hydration is crucial for both comfort and makeup longevity:
- Moisturiser: Apply a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer to lock in hydration. Dry patches can make foundation appear cakey.
- Primer: Use a hydrating or smoothing primer to create an even base. For bold or glitter-heavy looks, a silicone-based primer helps makeup stay put longer.
Celebrity Tip: Stars like Zendaya and Emma Watson prep their skin with a hydrating serum and primer before heavy makeup on set to keep it looking flawless.
Try:
- Dermalogica PRO Pro-Collagen Banking Serum – boosts hydration and creates a smooth, plump base for foundation.
- My Skin Chemistry Moisture Lock Light – a lightweight moisturiser ideal for layering under heavier makeup looks.
Step 3: Protect and Set
Even in October, Australian spring sun can be strong:
- SPF: Apply a lightweight sunscreen under your primer if you’ll be outdoors.
- Setting Powder/Spray: Lightly set your base to prevent makeup from sliding off throughout the night. For glitter or theatrical makeup, a setting spray can lock everything in place.
Pro Tip: Use translucent powder on oily areas to prevent makeup breakdown without dulling your glow.
Try:
- Dermaceutic Sun Ceutic SPF 50 – a broad-spectrum sunscreen that sits beautifully under makeup.
- ZO Skin Health Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30 – offers a matte finish that doubles as a priming base.
Step 5: Aftercare for Healthy Skin
Once the night is over, don’t forget post-makeup care:
- Gentle Makeup Removal: Use a balm or micellar water to remove heavy makeup without stripping skin.
- Soothing Mask or Serum: Rehydrate and calm your skin with a calming mask or antioxidant serum.
- Moisturise: Lock in moisture to restore your skin’s natural barrier.
Tip: Avoid harsh scrubbing or strong chemical peels immediately after wearing heavy or glittery makeup — your skin will thank you.
Try:
- Filorga Skin-Prep Enzymatic Exfoliating Cream – gently resurfaces and smooths post-makeup skin.
- Alastin Skincare TriHex Restorative Duo – helps repair and fortify the skin barrier after long makeup wear.
Halloween doesn’t have to be scary for your skin! With the right prep, products and creativity, you can pull off a stunning costume look while keeping your skin healthy and glowing.
