Which Should Come First: Hair or Makeup?

I’m going to steal my answer straight from The Notebook and say, “It’s not that simple.”

There are a LOT of variables that determine whether you should get your hair or makeup done first. But before we complicate what should be a simple decision, here’s the quick rule of thumb:

👉 If your hair is getting washed → Hair comes first.
👉 If your hair is NOT getting washed → It doesn’t really matter... usually.

Still with me? Great. If you’re a detail-oriented nut like myself, let’s break it down further.

1. The Real Question: Does Your Hair Need to Be Washed?

For most special occasions—weddings, proms, or formal events—it's best to arrive with clean, dry hair. That means washing it the night before and blow-drying it smooth, without adding oils, serums, or using hot tools like a flat iron.

If your hair gets oily quickly, you’ll want to wash and dry it the morning of your appointment.

Why does this matter?

Coming in with clean, dry hair ensures: ✔️ Your hair lasts longer.
✔️ Your appointment runs on time.
✔️ You avoid extra charges for last-minute blowouts.

And if your hair is prepped properly, the order of services doesn’t matter!

2. If You’re Getting a Blowout, Hair Comes First

If your service includes a wash and style, hair needs to be done first. Here’s why:

🚿 Washing your hair after makeup is risky. Water, steam, or a stray spritz from the shampoo bowl can ruin your foundation, blush, or contour—a makeup artist’s nightmare.

But what if I have to get makeup done first?

No problem! Just arrive 15 minutes early to get shampooed before your makeup appointment. That way, your hair is clean, and your makeup stays flawless.

Who definitely needs a shampoo?
✔️ Anyone with short hair (above the shoulders) getting a blowout.
✔️ Anyone getting major smoothing and curling who typically wears their hair natural.
✔️ Anyone whose hair requires a professional blow-dry before styling.

If you’re just getting curls and have longer hair, whether you wash it is up to you.

3. Do You Have Bangs?

Bangs are tricky. If you trust your stylist, you can still do hair first. Ideally, they’ll pin your bangs aside so makeup can be applied without interference.

If you don’t know the stylist well, I suggest:
1️⃣ Arriving early to get washed first.
2️⃣ Getting makeup done second.
3️⃣ Having your stylist dry and style your bangs last.

This avoids any awkward bangs-makeup disasters.

4. What About Natural Curls?

If you’re wearing your natural curls, it’s totally up to you. A stylist will likely use a curling iron to define certain sections for an updo.

But if you’re getting a professional diffused curl set, that requires washing—so hair comes first.

5. The Wild Card: Personal Preference

As a makeup artist myself, I always prefer makeup first. Why?

Because staring at yourself in the mirror with no makeup during a long hair appointment can make even the best hairstyle feel meh. It’s hard to judge a look when you feel like a little gremlin staring back at you.

If you relate, do makeup first. If you don’t, carry on.

Final Takeaway:

🚿 If your hair is getting washed → Hair first.
💄 If your hair isn’t getting washed → It’s your call.

Now that you know the why behind the choice, you can book your appointments strategically and get the best results for your big event!

Need expert styling and makeup for your next event? Click Here to book an appointment with us at Edith James Salon! 💕