If you’ve been following trends, you know that the no-makeup makeup look is everything right now. It's all about looking like you woke up with flawless skin and that natural glow, but in reality, it's the magic of makeup. If you’re like me, you want to look fresh and dewy without overdoing it. The no-makeup makeup look is the perfect way to achieve that effortlessly chic vibe. Trust me, with these easy steps, you’ll be rocking it in no time!
Step 1: Start With Skincare
The key to this look is flawless skin, and that starts with a good skincare routine. I know it might sound basic, but your base is everything, especially for a no-makeup look. Make sure to hydrate your skin with a good moisturizer and use SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s rays (yes, even on cloudy days!). For a real dewy, healthy glow, I swear by a hydrating primer to lock in moisture and create a smooth base. If you’ve got oily skin, go for a mattifying primer in areas that tend to get greasy.
Pro tip: Don’t skip skincare before makeup! Your skin’s texture and health are essential for achieving that “my skin but better” vibe.
Step 2: Use a Tinted Moisturizer or Light Coverage Foundation
Okay, the foundation step is where you can get creative. For the no-makeup makeup look, you don’t want anything too heavy. The goal is to even out your skin without covering it up completely. I love using a tinted moisturizer because it’s super light but gives just enough coverage to smooth out any redness or unevenness. If you need a little more coverage, go for a light-coverage foundation or BB cream.
Don’t forget to blend, blend, blend! I prefer using a damp beauty sponge to tap it into the skin for a seamless, natural finish. You can even skip foundation entirely if you’re feeling bold—just make sure your skin looks like skin!
Step 3: Conceal Where Necessary
While the no-makeup makeup look is about looking natural, there’s no harm in using a little concealer here and there. Target areas like dark circles under the eyes, redness around the nose, or any blemishes you want to cover up. I use a creamy, hydrating concealer that doesn’t feel heavy but still does the job.
Here’s my trick: Dab a tiny bit of concealer on blemishes, then use your finger to gently tap it in. This keeps it looking soft and natural—no harsh lines or cakey spots!
Step 4: Add Some Subtle Definition to the Eyes
For the eyes, you want definition without making it obvious that you're wearing makeup. Skip the heavy eyeliner and dark shadows. Instead, use a light, neutral eyeshadow to define the crease. I’m all about those soft taupe or brown shades that add depth without looking overdone.
Then, curl your lashes and apply a thin coat of mascara. Focus on lifting and separating the lashes for that wide-eyed, fresh look. If you want to add a little something extra, you can swipe on a brown pencil eyeliner on your waterline. This keeps it natural but still gives some definition to your eyes.
Step 5: Flush Your Cheeks With Natural Color
The no-makeup makeup look is all about looking naturally healthy, so blush is a must. I love using a cream blush because it blends seamlessly into the skin, giving that “just-got-back-from-a-run” flush. You can apply it to the apples of your cheeks and a little on your nose for that sun-kissed look. Cream blush is perfect because it’s buildable and feels lightweight—no powdery finish here! If you prefer powder blush, go for a soft peach or pink shade that mimics the natural color of your skin. Blend it in well to keep it subtle.
Step 6: Highlight, But Keep It Subtle
For that dewy glow, a little highlight goes a long way. But remember, this is the no-makeup makeup look, so we’re keeping it subtle. Use a cream or liquid highlighter for a more natural finish. Apply it to the high points of your face: the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid’s bow. You can also dab a little on your eyelids for an extra glow. The goal is to let your skin shine through without it looking too glittery or obvious. Think fresh and radiant, not sparkly disco ball!
Step 7: Finish With a Tinted Lip Balm or Gloss
Last but not least, let’s talk lips. For a natural, dewy look, skip the matte lipsticks and go for something hydrating and sheer. A tinted lip balm is perfect for this look—just a hint of color while keeping your lips soft and moisturized. If you want a little more shine, go for a gloss. Choose a lip gloss with a hint of tint or go for a clear one to keep things simple.
I love how easy this step is! It gives the lips a little something without making them the focal point of the look.
Step 8: Set It All With a Light Mist
Okay, we’re almost done! To lock everything in place without making it feel heavy or cakey, finish with a light mist of setting spray. I love using a dewy setting spray to give my face that fresh, hydrated glow. Just a quick spritz, and you're good to go.
