The “clean” makeup look ’or the ‘no-makeup makeup’ look is here to stay. It’s been the go-to look for celebrity brides and for A-listers alike - think dewy skin, a rosy flush, fluffy brows and subtly enhanced eyelashes. Everyone is obsessed with this low maintenance, effortless vibe! However, it can be trickier to achieve than you’d imagine. So, we’re here to break down the look with our step-by-step guide. Here are our top tricks.
1. Hydration Is Key
First things first, prep your skin! Use a pump of moisturizer and massage it evenly all over your face with your fingers. FYI Dry and dehydrated skin will not keep your makeup intact. It can also cause the foundation to settle into your fine lines and hence deliver a patchy, uneven finish.
We recommend Clinique Moisture Surge 100h Auto-replenishing Hydrator (Moisturizer).
2. Make A Primer Your BFF
Next up, is a primer. It helps your makeup hold on to your skin for longer, so apply it to areas where you tend to sweat. If you have been experiencing unwanted shine on your face, it could be probably because you skipped applying primer, and your pores are secreting oil, which leads to spoiling your makeup. Apply a pea-sized amount over your T-zone, cheeks and chin and blend it in with your fingertips. If you have oily skin, pick a silicone-based primer for makeup, but, if you have dry skin, you should consider going for a creamy primer.
We recommend Insight Cosmetics 3 In 1 Long Lasting Primer.
3. Ace Your Foundation
The secret to a dewy makeup look is blending the foundation on your face perfectly. Before you learn how to apply foundation, identify your skin undertone and type to pick the perfect shade. You can also mix two different shades to get your suitable shade. Start with a little bit of the product and then add more if needed. Apply the foundation on the face with your fingers and gently dab or blend with a damp beauty blender. A sponge or beauty blender absorbs the excess product and leaves a thin layer on your skin. Opt for a lightweight coverage to avoid feeling heavy on your skin.
We recommend Kay Beauty Hydrating Foundation.
4. Conceal Your Dark Spots
Concealers have a higher concentration of pigments and provide more coverage than a foundation. Therefore, use a concealer only if and wherever necessary. If you have pigmentation, or excessive dark circles, use a colour corrector that matches your undertone, apply it underneath the concealer to get a better finish. Apply the concealer around your under eyer area, zits or redness and blend it lightly into the skin with your fingers or sponge.
We recommend using the Maybelline New York Instant Age Rewind Eraser Multi-Use Concealer.
5. Finish With A Setting Powder
A loose powder locks in the foundation and absorbs all the extra oil or makeup product from your skin to give you an even finish. Dab a large fluffy powder brush in the powder, dust off the excess product and lightly brush it around your T-zone and under-eye area. Avoid using too much powder as it will pile up on your skin and make you look whitish.
Try PAC Translucent Powder.
6. Set With A Setting Spray
Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Setting Spray Transfer-proof 24HR Oil-control Formula
Now that your base makeup is set, go ahead and complete the look by adding some blush and a lip tint or gloss. Once your entire makeup look is complete, close your eyes and spritz some setting spray on your face to complete the look. A setting spray makes your makeup last longer and leaves no powdery residue behind. It also prevents your makeup from smudging, creasing or fading and gives it a natural look.
Try the Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Setting Spray Transfer-proof 24HR Oil-control Formula.
Your Questions Answered
1. What Is A Makeup Base?
A makeup base creates a smooth finish canvas for your entire look. Your base makeup typically includes applying moisturiser, primer, concealer and foundation.
2. How Do I Apply Base Makeup?
Start with cleansing and hydrating your skin. If you have open pores, use a toner as well. Apply a primer that best suits your skin type. Use a light to medium coverage, long-lasting foundation and blend it evenly. Hide the dark spots, dark circles and zits with a concealer. Finish it with a loose powder and setting spray.
3. Which Foundation Is Best For Oily Skin: Liquid Or Powder?
A powder-based foundation would be a suitable option for oily skin as it would soak up the excess oil and blend better. Avoid heavy-coverage or oil-based makeup products as it can clog your pores.
