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How to Prep Your Skin for Makeup.

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There is every possibility that the last makeup session that left you almost in tears was not because the makeup artist did not know her job well. It is probably because she did not prep your skin properly. 

Achieving a flawless makeup look is not just dependent on the quality of products used and your expertise in blending the look; it also depends on how well the routine you used to prep you skin is. The skin preparation of any makeup look largely determines the outcome; from its longevity, to the healthy and smooth glow. 

Whether the event is a casual one or a big wedding with the creme la creme of the society in attendance, the preparation of your skin before the makeup makes all the difference. 

Sit tight as I walk you through a detailed skip prep routine that will make your face pop. 

 

Clean your Face Properly. 

This is the most crucial step in skin prepping. Our faces collect dirt all day long, sebaceous glands on our face secretes oil and dead cells on our face clog the pores on our face. In addition, these dirts when not cleaned properly can even lead to breakouts. Besides, applying makeup over a face without cleaning it properly first will make the makeup looks tacky, uneven or patchy. 

Prep your skin

 

To cleanse properly;

    • Use warm water. It helps to strip your face of natural oils. 
    • Choose the right cleanser. If you have an oily skin, go for a foaming or gel based cleanser. However, if you have dry skin,a hydrating cleanser is best. 
  • Massage gently and avoid scrubbing so hard to avoid irritation. 
  • Double cleanse if you regularly wear heavy makeup or sunscreen. First with an oil based cleanser to remove buildup, and a water based cleanser to deep clean.

Hydrate with a Toner. 

Contrary to popular opinion, cleansing your face is not all there is to do when you want to prep your skin for makeup. After cleansing, your skin might feel light and dry. A toner will help moisturize your skin  and balance the skin’s PH, and make it ready to absorb products better. 

Toners also helps to remove leftover impurities and tightens the pores. A few toners you might want to try include:

Zaron Skin Regenerating Toner, Neutrogena Oil-Free toner are suitable toners for oily and acne- prone skins. 

 Nivea Perfect and Radiant Face Toner, Cerave Hydrating Toner are suitable for dry and dehydrated Skin. 

Pixi Glow Tonic, Beauty Formular Brightening Vitamin C Toner are suitable for all skin types. 

Apply a Lightweight Serum. 

Serums are made specifically to solve skin concerns like hydration, dullness, acne, or fine lines. Using the right serum will not just provide extra nourishment but also make a huge difference to how the make up will sit on your face.

A few recommended serums include hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, Niacinamide, retinol and so many others. 

It is best to pat the serum into the skin rather than rubbing it in to maximize absorption. 

Moisturize.

Moisturizing your face properly prevents your makeup from settling into fine lines or clinging onto dry patches. If you have oily skin, a lightweight moisturizer will ensure balance and prevent your skin from over producing oil.  

Read Also: Best Face Cream For All Skin Types 

 

Apply an Eye Cream. 

The skin under your eyes is more delicate than the skin in every other part of your face. This makes it prone to creasing and drying. Applying the eye cream before commencing the makeup makes the concealer application smoother. 

Use a finger to gently pat the cream around your eyes then let it fully absorb before applying concealer or continuing makeup. 

skin prep

Prime your Face. 

A primer acts as a barrier between your skin and the makeup. It aids smooth application and enhances longevity. 

 

Allow Products to Set Before Applying Makeup. 

When you are done with the skin prep, it is necessary to wait for the preparation to set for a few minutes before applying makeup. 

This is to let the products used to absorb completely and prevent the makeup from pilling. 

 

Conclusion. 

I know that skin prepping might seem like too many steps to go through before the makeup proper. However, prepping your skin makes your makeup look smooth, flawless and last longer. 

A perfectly prepped face is the recipe for a flawless makeup. 

 

If you follow these steps judiciously, you will not only up your makeup game but also keep your skin healthy at all times. The next time you try to do your makeup, take out time to prepare your skin for what is ahead. You would see the difference.

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Beauty

Smart Beauty Moves for After the Gym

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You’ve just finished a solid workout—your heart’s still racing, your shirt’s clinging to your back, and the person in the mirror looks like they gave it everything. It’s a familiar scene. But getting from post-workout mess to refreshed and ready doesn’t have to be complicated. A few practical steps can get you feeling put-together again without adding stress to your routine.

1. Sweat Happens—Don’t Let It Linger

Finishing a session soaked in sweat is normal. Letting it sit on your skin for too long? Not ideal. Sweat traps dirt and oil, and if it dries into your skin, it can cause irritation and breakouts. Especially if you touched your face during your workout, a quick rinse with cool water or a gentle wipe-down can make a big difference.

2. Wash Your Face—No Excuses

Even if you’re starving or rushing out the door, don’t skip this step. Your skin just worked hard too, and it needs to be cleaned. Choose a face wash that suits your skin—go for something balancing if you’re oily, or hydrating if you lean dry. A good rinse now helps prevent clogged pores later.

3. Rehydrate on the Inside—and the Outside

Of course, drink your water. But don’t forget your skin needs moisture too. After cleansing, apply a lightweight cream or gel. The goal is to replenish without leaving a heavy film. Look for ingredients like aloe or cucumber to help soothe any post-workout redness.

4. Your Hair Needs a Moment Too

Tying it up was practical, but now your scalp is sweaty and could use a little attention. If washing isn’t an option right away, blot your roots and hairline with a clean towel. A light mist of dry shampoo at the roots can absorb excess moisture and buy you time without buildup.

5. Go Easy on the Makeup

Your skin is still cooling down, and piling on full-coverage makeup right now can cause issues. If you need a touch-up, stick to the basics. A tinted moisturizer, a bit of brow gel, and lip balm can clean up your look without stressing your skin.

6. Keep Your Towels Separate

It’s a small detail, but it matters. One towel for your body, another for your face. The last thing you want is to transfer bacteria from your arms or neck to your cheeks. Also—don’t forget to toss them in the wash often. Gym bags aren’t the cleanest places to stash fabric.

7. Let Your Skin Wind Down Too

After moving your body, give your skin a little time to reset. A couple of spritzes of facial mist or a few drops of calming serum can help it settle. Think of it as your skin’s version of a cool-down stretch.

It’s Not About Looking Perfect

You don’t have to leave the gym looking like you’re headed to a photo shoot. But feeling clean, calm, and put-together makes a difference—especially when you’ve just pushed yourself physically. These small post-workout habits are more than beauty steps; they’re part of taking care of yourself.

Because there’s something solid and admirable about a woman who pushes her limits, freshens up, and moves on with the day like it’s just business as usual.

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Beauty

Glow Naturally: How to Build a Skincare Routine With Only Natural Products

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Glow Naturally: How to Build a Skincare Routine With Only Natural Products

There’s a quiet kind of joy that comes from seeing your skin come alive—supple, smooth, and radiant—without relying on chemicals or expensive miracles in a jar. I still remember the day I decided to ditch store-bought formulas and go back to basics. I wasn’t expecting major results. But with each homemade blend and simple ingredient, my skin began to transform. It became clearer, calmer, and more resilient. That’s when I realized nature wasn’t just a backup—it was the main solution I’d been overlooking.

Cleanse With Care, Not Force

Every skincare routine begins with cleansing, but choosing the wrong cleanser can easily disrupt your skin’s natural balance. I replaced foaming face washes with raw honey and finely ground oats mixed into a paste. Honey soothes and supports troubled skin, while oats are mild enough for even the most reactive complexions. After rinsing, my skin feels balanced and calm—not tight or stripped.

Scrub Softly, Not Harshly

Exfoliation should refine your skin, not damage it. I use a blend of coffee grounds or rice flour with a splash of olive oil. The result? A gentle polish that boosts circulation and smooths without causing redness. It smells like a cozy morning and leaves my skin looking brighter and feeling refreshed—proof that results don’t require aggression.

Moisturize Without the Mess

Heavy creams used to sit on my face like a layer of plastic, especially in humid weather. Then I discovered plant-based oils like rosehip, jojoba, and sweet almond. These oils absorb quickly and nourish deeply without clogging pores. Just a few drops pressed onto damp skin, and I’m good to go. It’s clean, uncomplicated hydration that leaves my skin soft and balanced throughout the day.

Mask With Meaning

Face masks have become my weekend reset. When my skin needs a deep clean, I reach for bentonite clay blended with apple cider vinegar. For hydration, I mash avocado or stir plain yogurt into honey. A touch of turmeric brightens up a dull complexion. These masks do more than treat the surface—they help me slow down and care for myself in the process.

Don’t Skip Protection

For years, I ignored sunscreen, thinking it was all chemicals and breakouts. Eventually, I found mineral-based sunscreens made with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide—simple, effective, and gentle. They protect without irritation or a ghostly white cast. If you’re going natural, sun protection is still a must.

Pay Attention to Your Skin’s Signals

No product works every day, forever. Some mornings, a splash of rosewater is all I need. Other times, my skin craves deep moisture. I’ve learned to notice when something’s off—dryness, dullness, or a breakout—and adjust without overcomplicating things. My skincare isn’t a strict routine anymore; it’s a conversation.

Beauty Starts From Within

Good skincare means little if the rest of your lifestyle is out of sync. What I eat, how much I sleep, and how I manage stress all show up on my face. Drinking enough water, eating more whole foods, and giving my body rest have done more for my skin than any mask ever could.

Switching to natural skincare hasn’t just changed the way my skin looks—it’s changed how I approach beauty altogether. It made my routine more mindful, more honest, and much less overwhelming. If you’re thinking of making the switch, start small—one product, one ingredient. Before long, you’ll notice your skin doesn’t just stay healthy—it begins to shine with real vitality.

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Beauty

Pink! The Nail Color Trend For Summer 2025

Inspired By The Beautiful Namibian Model Mel Clarke

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Summer 2025 is here, and girls want to be more flawless.

Yes, The call of summer is real — not only in fashion but also in beauty, where the smallest detail can become the loudest trend. And this season, that detail is pink nails, championed boldly by none other than Namibian beauty icon Mel Clarke.

As Summer officially begins on this June 21st, 2025, Mel Clarke sets the tone with her radiant manicure and pedicure in a captivating shade of pink a hue that doesn’t shout but glows with quiet confidence.

The look? Clean, glossy, and refreshingly versatile that can run with Whether she’s wearing a white sundress, beachy co-ords, or a color-blocked outfit, Mel’s pink nails tie everything together with elegance and effortlessness.

Why Pink Nails Are the Power Trend of Summer 2025

1. Universal Appeal:

Mel Clarke’s  chosen shade is a vibrant, semi-transparent pink that works across all skin tones. It complements a spectrum of fashion choices, from minimalist neutrals to bold tropical prints, making it the ultimate beauty investment for the season.

2. Statement in Simplicity:

While nail art and chrome finishes remain popular, there’s a growing return to clean beauty aesthetics. Mel embodies this perfectly. Her pink nails are glossy, healthy-looking, and feminine — proof that you don’t need complexity to make a statement.

3. From the Catwalk to the Coastline:

Whether you’re heading to a beach or a rooftop party in Lagos, Dubai, Nairobi, Windhoek or Cape Town, the pink nails like Mel’s offer the kind of chic, adaptable charm that feels right everywhere. It’s the shade that says, “I’m polished but playful.”

4. A Symbol of Self-Care:

Mel Clarke’s pink manicure is more than just a beauty choice it’s a reflection of wellness and intentional femininity. In a world moving fast, embracing a look that’s soft yet impactful is a way of grounding beauty in self-love.

Influencing a New Generation

Mel Clarke’s presence on social media and her growing influence in fashion and beauty make her a trendsetter not just in Namibia, but across Africa and beyond. Her pink nail look is already sparking inspiration — from young girls painting their nails at home to professionals updating their salon moodboards.

This summer, expect to see more pink  not just because it’s pretty, but because it’s powerful.

Let Mel Clarke’s pink nails guide your summer vibe: bold in energy, soft in expression, and endlessly stylish.

Follow her now  on Instagram “Mel Clarke“.

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