Your 20s are a mix of firsts. First job interviews, first big nights out, and maybe even your first serious skincare routine. While the roaring 20s might be your “advanced experiment” phase, it’s also the perfect time to set yourself up with makeup habits for glowing and better skin that will last for the years to come.

If you’re wondering what your beauty routine should be like now, this guide to makeup in your 20s will help. We’ll cover essentials and everyday looks in this tutorial. Plus, we’ll even throw in a budget-friendly starter kit to help you learn to buy smart.

Why Makeup in Your 20s Feels Different

If your teen years have been about exciting trends, your 20s should usually feel different and lean toward a neat girl look. Suddenly, you’re balancing fun with presentable.

• Skin changes: Hormones can still cause flare-ups, but this time you might also experience the first signs of skin dryness or fine lines.
• Lifestyle shifts: You’re juggling work, school, and social life. At this point, makeup has to work as hard as you do.
• Long-term thinking: Prevention becomes a priority. You’ll soon start thinking about SPF and hydration. And you definitely need products that won’t clog your pores.

So, how do you create a polished routine without taking an hour? Let’s break it down.

Your 20s Makeup Essentials

You don’t need luxury products on your shelf for the look you’re aiming for. For a streamlined routine, here are some products you need:

• Sunscreen: The non-negotiable base. Opt for a lightweight formula that layers well under makeup.
• Base products: Tinted moisturizers, BB creams, or medium-coverage foundations like L’Oréal True Match work well. Pair with a concealer for dark circles or blemishes.
• Brows: A clear or tinted brow gel keeps things polished without overdoing it.
• Eyes: Mascara is your MVP; a neutral shadow palette can take you from office to happy hour.
• Cheeks and lips: Cream blush or multi-use sticks save time and add a healthy glow.

These products will be your capsule wardrobe for beauty: versatile, dependable, and easy to style.

Step-by-Step Everyday Routine

Some mornings will give you plenty of time to spare, but most days will be a race against the bundy clock. Here’s a simple routine you can use for maddening weekdays:

Quick 5-Minute Routine

1. Sunscreen or moisturizer with SPF.
2. Concealer under eyes and around redness.
3. A sweep of mascara.
4. Cream blush tapped onto cheeks (and lips if you like).
5. Clear brow gel for polish.

And when you’re out for the night but don’t want to start over, here’s another routine you can adapt.

Buildable Evening Upgrade

• Add foundation for fuller coverage.
• Define eyes with liner or deeper shadow.
• Switch blush to a powder formula for longevity.
• Finish with a bold lip; we recommend classic red or a trendy berry shade.

These are the same core products, just layered differently. With these basics, you’re all set for some quick and polished makeup!

Common Mistakes in Your 20s Makeup Routine

It’s easy to fall into habits that don’t serve your skin or your wallet. Here are some common pitfalls you should avoid:

• Wearing the wrong undertone: Foundations can look good in bottles, but they can turn orange later on after application. Always test in daylight to know how well they perform after a certain period.
• Skipping SPF: Sunscreen isn’t just daily skincare; it’s also your best anti-aging tool. Always have it with you no matter where you go.
• Over-powdering: Too much setting powder can make skin look dull and emphasize fine lines.
• Not preparing your skin enough: Applying foundation on dry or oily skin without moisturizer makes it slide or cake.

Take note of these common mistakes and avoid them as early as now. You don’t want to stick to these habits later on!

Starter Kit: Makeup in Your 20s Under $100

Building a kit doesn’t have to cost your whole paycheck. Try this curated lineup:

• L’Oréal True Match Foundation — $12
• Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer — $11
• e.l.f. Putty Blush — $8
• NYX Brow Glue — $10
• Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara — $12
• NYX Butter Gloss — $6
• CeraVe Hydrating Sunscreen — $16
• Real Techniques Sponge & Brush Set — $25

Total: $100. This is a full routine that’s  just within a regular budget for makeup. And it’ll last you many uses!

Makeup in Your 20s Made Simple

Makeup in your 20s should feel exciting and encouraging. With the right products and a little practice, you can seamlessly switch your look from work to the weekend.

Ready to take your skills to the next level? Explore our eye makeup tutorials to complement your everyday looks. 

Tell us what you think: do you prefer everyday minimal or are you a fan of glam experiments? Let us know in the comments below!