My usual step by step makeup routine

This mornings exercise walk at 06:00, again my wife fast asleep not joining me.. I had a podcast on describing a trams makeover.. Much of it aligned with how I do my makeup so an early blog today..

One of the things I’ve come to love most about crossdressing is the ritual of applying makeup it's fun.

It’s not just a process—it’s a moment I enjoy about cross dressing trying to paint a convincing face for "Davina".

Over time I’ve refined a routine that works for me, especially when time is limited and I want to make the most of my chance to dress and look my best as "Davina".

The podcast went over makeup basics for crossdressers, and while there wasn’t much new for me, it made me realise: this might be a great blog topic. So here’s my personal step-by-step routine for putting on my face.

1. Shave (the smoother, the better!)Even though I often have a bit of stubble in man mode—got to keep up macho male appearances—I hate body hair and try to keep myself as smooth as possible all over.

But when it's Davina time, the stubble has to go. I use a good quality 3-blade razor for a really close shave on my face.

2. MoisturisePost-shave, I never go straight to foundation—that’s a fast track to clogged pores and spots. Instead, I use a regular moisturiser.

Nivea is a go-to, but I’ve also started using Revolution’s men’s skincare line, especially their face cream gel. It soothes my skin and creates a better base for everything else.

3. Colour CorrectorNext is a colour corrector, and I don’t just use it on my beard area—I apply it all over. I’ve found a great 3-in-1 product for about £5 on Amazon that helps neutralise redness and hide any shadow from facial hair.

4. Foundation TimeOnce the corrector sets (I wait a minute or two—no idea if that’s “official,” but it works), I use a liquid foundation close to my skin tone.

I apply it with a triangle sponge and blend it all over my face, taking care to extend slightly under the chin to avoid a makeup “cut-off” line.

5. Matte PowderA mattifying powder follows to take away shine and help the foundation set. This gives a smoother, more natural look and helps prevent an oily shiny finish.

6. ContourNow the fun starts. I use a contour palette and a brush to outline the outer edge of my face: around the jaw, the hairline, both sides of the nose, my eyelids, and under the cheekbones.

Then I dab and blend it in with a sponge for subtle definition.

7. HighlightWith a light, almost white highlighter and a different brush, I brighten the center of my nose, under my eyes, and slightly above the lids.

This adds dimension and a touch of glow. Again, blending is key.

8. BlushUsing a pink blush and yet another brush, I dab onto the apples of my cheeks and blend it back toward my ears. It gives a natural flush and helps feminise my face shape.

9. EyeshadowThis depends on what I’m wearing. I’ll go for greys and silvers, browns and golds, or blues. For a more dramatic or “going out” look, I might blend brown and gold or blue and silver.

10. Lashes and Smoky EffectInstead of eyeliner, I use a black eyeshadow applied right along the base of the lashes with a small brush. It’s easier to remove (no panda eyes!) and still gives that smoky, sultry look. I apply it along the lower lashes too then I apply mascara to both upper and lower lashes - I'm lucky I have my own naturally long eyelashes that make women jealous.

11. LipsRed is my usual. I slightly exaggerate my lip shape with lipstick, then use a liner to define and sharpen the edges.

A second coat of lipstick followed by a clear or matching gloss helps lock it in and makes my lips pop.

12. Finishing TouchesWhen I’m happy with the look, I spritz a setting spray to hold everything in place.

A spritz of perfume, my wig on, and Davina is ready to go!

This whole process takes me around 15–20 minutes.

I’ve got it down to an efficient flow, probably because I’ve often had to work within narrow windows of time. But truthfully, I enjoy every minute of it.

I even enjoy doing my wife’s makeup when she lets me (which is rare but she's had compliments).

Makeup is an art, a ritual, and fun. And for me, it’s one of the best parts of crossdressing.

I just wish I had more time and freedom to undertake this hobby of mine.. One things for certain I don't forget my routine even if it a been a mont lh or three between opportunity to dress.

Davina