I do toner and lotion. Then I do my hair first because I don’t want heat on my face after I do makeup. (I do hair last if I’m not blow drying.) I always do eye shadow first. Then foundation, concealer if needed, and finish with contouring and blush. Then eyeliner followed by mascara. And lastly, brush teeth and lipstick. Et voila. This is most logical to me. Though lately I just wear foundation and lipstick, but that’s a whole other thing that could be a post in itself.
Baking is when you apply a thick layer of loose powder over liquid foundation/concealer in areas where creasing may occur. I press the power on with my fingers or a damp sponge, leave it be for 5-10 minutes, then brush off the excess powder. I don’t quite get the science behind it, I think it absorbs excess oil and settles into fine lines? I believe it was originally a drag/theater technique for longevity under hot sweaty lights. It definitely prevents creasing for me and makes my makeup last longer! It can help stop mascara from smudging too.
I’ve heard some people say it dries them out too much, but I have oily skin so it’s great for me! I also like the matte effect it gives, so it might not be for you if you like the dewy look.