The Skincare Routine Brandi Gregge Uses To Make Makeup Look Better

If you’ve ever stared at your foundation halfway through the day wondering why it suddenly turned patchy, cakey, or textured, you’re in good company. According to Brandi Gregge, FNP-C and founder of Mint & Needle, makeup only performs as well as the skin underneath it.

As a medical aesthetic provider, Gregge emphasizes that skin prep matters far more than the makeup itself. “Think of the face as a canvas,” she often explains. “If the surface isn’t smooth, hydrated, and balanced, even the best formulas can only do so much.” Below is the exact routine she recommends — and personally follows — to help makeup glide on better, last longer, and look like real skin.

Step 1: Start Clean, But Never Stripped

Gregge begins with a gentle, medical-grade cleanser that removes oil and buildup without disrupting the skin barrier. She notes that the goal is balanced skin, not that tight, squeaky-clean feeling that often leads to uneven makeup wear.

Her tip: avoid foaming cleansers that leave skin feeling dry — tightness is a sign your barrier needs support.

Step 2: Layer Hydration, Not Heaviness

Before reaching for primer, Gregge focuses on hydration. She applies a hyaluronic acid–rich serum, followed by a lightweight moisturizer that locks everything in. This creates a plump, bouncy base that makeup can seamlessly glide over.

When skin feels especially dry or dull, she even mists between makeup layers — a technique that helps prevent midday makeup fatigue.

Step 3: Protect + Perfect

For Gregge, SPF is non-negotiable. Not only does daily sunscreen protect from collagen breakdown and pigmentation, but when the skin is properly prepped, a lightweight, non-greasy SPF also functions as the perfect priming step.

Step 4: Let Skin Texture Be The Star

Because her routine keeps skin balanced, Gregge can use far less makeup - which she considers the true secret to a natural finish. She applies coverage only where it’s needed (around the nose, chin, and under the eyes) and keeps the rest fresh.

Her philosophy: when skincare comes first, makeup becomes enhancement - not camouflage.

Step 5: End-of-Day Reset

Gregge finishes her routine with an intentional nighttime ritual. She double-cleanses — starting with an oil cleanser, then following with a gentle wash — and applies a barrier-repair serum before bed. Caring for the skin overnight ensures a naturally radiant, makeup-ready glow the next morning.

The Takeaway: Brandi Gregge believes great makeup begins long before the first brush touches the skin. Investing in skin health delivers the kind of all-day glow no highlighter can replicate — because truly luminous makeup starts with truly healthy skin.

Medical Disclaimer:

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Skincare routines and treatments should be personalized. Please consult with a qualified medical professional or your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your individual needs.

BDG Media newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.