The ‘no make-up’ make-up look is one that somehow stumps even the most deft hands. Lean into the simplicity of barefaced beauty with our simple guide.
It’s hard to think of a barefaced beauty look without thinking of the French, who encapsulate the natural enhancement of their features so well, or perhaps your reference is an all-American look that was built on a wholesome, bold bareness.
Let’s take a breath and ditch the global references to focus on you, right where you are with your unique and beautiful features.
It makes sense to think of barefaced beauty as the most versatile style of make-up, since the guiding principles are customisable and enhance every face shape, feature and skin tone. Experimenting with techniques and creamier formulas to find a look that suits your face should be fun, easy and intuitive. Let’s dive in:
Skin
As with any look, your skin provides the foundation to the rest of your look. With bare make-up, the key is to enhance, not cover, your skin. You want it to look and act like a better version of itself.
A light coverage foundation, tinted moisturiser or good concealer is essential for creating a smooth, even and natural base.
If your skin is clear and even, be sure to give it a good moisture boost before moving on to anything else.
Dampening your foundation brush, concealer brush or blender will allow you to apply and buff out your product with more ease, to get a more natural, sheer finish.
TIP: Don’t skip the primer! You want your face to be well-prepared and smooth for the day.
Cheeks
Just like with a full face, a dab of colour to the cheeks gives your face structure and completes the look.
Sweep a cream blusher from the corner of your mouth to your hairline. Stick to shimmer- and glitter- free blushers in a tone that mimics your natural blush, to make sure you’re getting a natural look, rather than a striking, strong cheek.
TIP: Highlighter on a bare face is essential. Opt for a formula with a gentle glow, that will easily melt into your brow and top of cheeks. Don’t be shy to add just a touch to the tip of your nose and cupid’s bow.
Lips
Low-sheen, muted tones closely matching your natural lip colour is first prize.
Line your lips with a matching shade and lightly diffuse it to soften the line and create a low-drama pout. Much the same as your eyeliner, it will frame your mouth without creating a strong, over-defined look.
Using a small, damp brush will blend the colour without building it up too much.
TIP: Start by priming your lips with a moisturising balm and do the same to seal and diffuse the pigment. Your fingers will melt the balm and pigment into one evenly diffused and low-maintenance layer. And that’s really it. Celebrate your face and let it breathe.
Compiled by Savanna Douglas
Also see: A mascara guide to level up your lashes
