Every beauty guru knows that even makeup artists need to start off with a clean, blank canvas, so when it comes time to actually apply foundation or lipstick, your face is already plumped and primed. Ahead, we chatted with L’Oréal Paris Celebrity Makeup Artist Sir John on the skin-care products he loves to use before makeup.L’Oréal Paris Hydra-Genius Daily Liquid Care MoisturizerMakeup artists realize just how critical moisturizing can be, as it can majorly impact how makeup applies. Want smooth, even coverage? You better moisturize first. As for what they use, it’s all about finding a hydrating formula that can help soften and prime the skin. Sir John shares that the number-one skin-care product clients inquire about after he works with them is the L’Oréal Paris Hydra-Genius Daily Liquid Care for Normal/Oily Skin. “People love this [moisturizer] because it keeps skin looking fresh and hydrated, while also mattifying it,” he says. “It’s great for my oily girls or just before you hit the red carpet.” Sounds good to us — even if we don’t have any celebrity-packed carpets to hit anytime soon.L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Radiant Smoothing Wet Cleansing TowelettesWhen it comes to makeup, you’re only as good as your base. And guess what? Micellar waters aren’t the only way makeup artists love to get their clients’ skin clean. Another popular pick is a makeup removing wipe. Sir John recommends every makeup artist stow a package of these wet cleansing towelettes in their kit. They’re convenient, effective and simple to use.Clarisonic Mia SmartSir John finds himself recommending Clarisonic cleansing devices often, and for year-round cleansing, he pairs it with one of the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Cleansers.L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof For All Skin TypesMicellar water may be the ultimate French-favorite cleanser, but it’s also a must-have among makeup artists. Sir John lists it as an essential every makeup artist needs in their kit, both for regular skin cleansing and for removing waterproof eye makeup — and we couldn’t agree more. No-rinse micellar waters don’t require close proximity to a sink, making them an ideal pick for those on the go, frequent travelers or makeup artists working on location. Simply saturate a cotton pad with the Micellar Cleansing Water Complete and sweep it across your facial contours to whisk away dirt, impurities and waterproof makeup in a pinch.  L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Peel PadsNot sure how to switch-up your beauty routine when cold weather hits? Don’t worry, Sir John filled us in on what he suggests. ““I like to have my clients use glycolic peel pads, like the L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Bright Reveal Peel Pads,” he says. Peel pads may not have previously held a spot in your skin-care routine, but they’re about to be your new product obsession. The multi-ply textured pads physically resurface dead skin cells so that skin looks brighter and feels softer.L’Oréal Paris Pure Clay MasksIf no one has done you the favor of introducing you to multi-masking, let Sir John do the honor. This trendy technique involves smoothing different face masks onto different spots on your face, depending on the needs of each. Easy enough, right? Sir John multi-masks with the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Detoxify & Brighten Face Mask and L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Exfoliate & Refining Face Mask.Rose Water SprayAnother product that gets lots of recommendation-love — i.e. it must be good — from Sir John is rose water spray. Recommended to clients and makeup artists alike, these delightfully-floral mists are perfect for giving yourself a quick spritz to hydrate or refresh your makeup. One of our personal favorites is the Garnier SkinActive Rose Water Soothing Facial Mist. Read MoreShould You Splurge or Save in Skincare?5 Sheet Masks Perfect For Selfies 7 New Skin Care Products From Ulta To Add To Your Stash STAT
