(Because the glow should enter the room before you do.)
There’s nothing quite like that pre-party excitement—the outfit is steaming, the playlist is vibing, and your makeup is lined up like loyal soldiers ready to serve. But here’s the real truth no one likes to admit: the glow always begins before the makeup brush. The best party look starts at the sink, not in your vanity bag. And when you get your pre-party skincare ritual right, the difference is almost disrespectful—your skin behaves, your foundation obeys, and the compliments? Endless.
Here’s a simple, realistic, non-dramatic routine that will get your skin red-carpet ready for any December party, girls’ night out, wedding, or “I might see my ex tonight” situation.
Start With a Clean Slate (Literally)
A good cleanse is the pre-party equivalent of clearing negative energy—you don’t skip it. Wash off the day, the sweat, the stress, the Lagos dust, everything. Use a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin; you want it clean, not confused. Double cleansing works magic, especially if you’ve worn sunscreen or makeup earlier. First, an oil-based cleanser to melt everything off, then a water-based cleanser to leave your skin soft and fresh.
Exfoliate, But Don’t Announce It With Redness
Nothing smooths the canvas like a gentle exfoliation. Keywords: gentle. This is not the day to experiment with a new acid that may or may not leave you looking like an extra from a superhero movie.
Stick to what your skin knows—an exfoliating toner or a mild scrub that buffs away dullness without drama. The goal is simple: smoother texture, brighter complexion, and a face that won’t make your foundation pill in protest.
Hydration Is the Real Secret Weapon
Every glowing skin story begins with hydration. Before you reach for serums that promise eternal youth, give your skin a drink—literally. A hydrating mist or toner sets the tone, plumps up the skin, and preps it to absorb everything else.
Then comes the serum. This is where you pick your fighter:
A hyaluronic acid serum for instant plumpness,
A vitamin C serum, if you want that “I drink water and mind my business” brightness,
Or a niacinamide serum for a smoother, refined look under makeup.
Massage it in. Take your time. Let your skin enjoy it.
A Face Mask You Can Trust
There’s something luxurious about putting on a sheet mask while your hair is in rollers and your jewellery is laid out like a small museum exhibit. But beyond aesthetics, a good mask makes a visible difference.
Hydrating sheet masks are always a safe bet—think aloe, snail mucin, or ceramides. They calm, brighten, and give you that fresh “just got a facial” look without the facial appointment.
If sheet masks aren’t your thing, a clay mask you’ve used before works too—especially if you’re oily-prone. The key is familiarity. Pre-party skin is not the time for adventure.
Ice: The Old Trick That Still Slaps
An ice cube wrapped in a clean cloth or a cold jade roller works wonders. A few minutes of de-puffing brings down inflammation, tightens pores temporarily, and gives your face that snatched, awake look.
Plus, it just feels good. Like your skin is saying, “Ah, finally.”
Moisturise Like You Mean It
Moisturiser is the loyal friend in your routine—no drama, no big promises, just consistent results. Choose something lightweight but effective, so your makeup doesn’t slide off by 10 p.m.
The trick is to press your moisturiser into the skin instead of dragging it around. This helps it absorb better and leaves the skin looking supple instead of shiny.
Prime Your Skin, Not Just Your Makeup
Before reaching for your actual primer, create a skincare base that works like one. A light, oil-free moisturiser or gel cream helps smooth texture and ensures your makeup stays put.
If your skin drinks products quickly, layer a balm or slightly thicker cream around the mouth and eyes—areas where makeup tends to betray you after a few hours of dancing and talking.
Don’t Forget The Lips—They Matter More Than You Think
Cracked lips under gloss? God forbid.
A quick scrub (you can even do sugar + honey) and a thick balm will make your lipstick glide on effortlessly. It also saves you from the embarrassing habit of licking your lips every 10 minutes.
And Finally… SPF (Even If It’s Nighttime)
Hear me out: the sun may have gone down, but your makeup products—especially foundations with SPF—layer better on protected skin. Plus, if you’ll be outdoors or taking pictures under harsh lighting, SPF still matters.
Use a lightweight formula that won’t ball up under foundation, and give it a minute to settle before makeup.
