Try The Easy 4-Step Makeup Routine That Made Laura Mercier Famous

Laura Mercier, pioneer of the “Flawless Face”, is a world-renowned makeup artist and creator of the eponymous cosmetics brand that has won countless awards and become a mainstay in makeup artists’ kits worldwide.

Laura is the innovative force behind the beauty industry’s most iconic products, French aesthetic and artistry techniques. Founded in 1996, Laura’s vision was to encourage artists and consumers alike to embrace the beauty of individuality and adopt the four-part technique that made her famous.

Prime for an ideal canvas, even out skin tone with foundation, camouflage with concealer, and set for perfection. Easy as 1, 2, 3 … 4! Keep reading for a detailed step-by-step of how Laura’s technique works.

Step 1: PRIME

Just as an artist primes a canvas, set the stage for smooth makeup application with a skin-nourishing primer. Look for ingredients that lock in moisture, without being overly greasy or oil-inducing. For oily skin types, look for formulations that control oil buildup. Allow the primer to set in place before applying the rest of your makeup look.

Remember: this step does not exclude the eyes! Create an even base by applying a soothing eye primer like Laura’s Eye Basics Primer. This unique, versatile cream primes eyelids to provide the perfect canvas for any eye look. Wear under powder eye shadow to create a uniform base, help prevent creasing, extend color wear and enhance the intensity of eye shadow on the lids. Or wear alone to camouflage imperfections for a classic nude eye.

Step 2: COVER

Instead of using foundation as a means to cover the skin, train your brain to apply it as a skin enhancer. Even full-coverage formulas should be used only to even out discoloration. Your goal in applying foundation should be a natural finish that feels and looks like a second skin.

Step 3: CONCEAL

For Laura, concealer is key. (And when Laura speaks, we listen!) Camouflage darkness, tone down redness, and conceal blemishes or other imperfections with a formula that is packed with powerful, lightweight coverage. The beauty of concealer is that you can easily build coverage as needed without overdoing it.

Step 4: SET IN PLACE

Once you’ve completed your flawless base, lock everything in place before finishing off the eyes and lips with whatever technique or style you desire! Choose a transparent setting powder that will add dimension and eliminate any flashback.

Bonus Tip

If you’re looking for super light coverage, opt for a tinted moisturizer in place of foundation. The multi-tasking blend of skincare and makeup blurs imperfections with just a sheer tint of coverage and delivers a hydrated, no-makeup finish. For oily skin types, choose an oil-free formula or prep the skin with a mattifying primer.

Learn More

Shop these Laura Mercier flawless face essentials and more online and in-store at Camera Ready Cosmetics. Discounts apply for pro artist members.

Which Laura Mercier products are your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

About Camera Ready Cosmetics

Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. She dreamed of having a pro makeup showroom where artists could play with professional products without the typical makeup store attitude.

Today, our team of beauty industry veterans work together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists.

You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay...come in and play! Our store is your playground.