How to do Makeup that Looks Natural: Step by Step

There's a special kind of confidence that comes with natural makeup. It's about more than just looking good—it's about feeling fantastic in your own skin. Whether you're running errands or preparing for a date night, natural makeup is your go-to for looking effortlessly chic. Let's dive into how you can master this art, choosing the right products and honing your application techniques to enhance your features subtly but powerfully.

The Perfect Eyeshadow to Complement Your Red Dress

What Is Natural Makeup?

So, what do we mean when we talk about natural makeup? It's all about using products that enhance rather than hide your natural beauty. This style relies on light textures and shades that complement your inherent skin tones and textures, aiming to highlight your best features without a heavy makeup look. The goal is simple: you, on your very best day.

Must-Have Products for Natural Makeup

Achieving that perfect natural look starts with the right tools. Here's what you'll need in your beauty kit:

Tinted Moisturizer or Light Foundation: Creates a breathable, light base.

Must-Have Products for Natural Makeup - Concealer

Concealer: Perfect for covering blemishes or dark circles subtly.

Must-Have Products for Natural Makeup - Brow Gel

Brow Gel: Defines and tames your brows without them looking overdone.

Must-Have Products for Natural Makeup - Soft Blush

Soft Blush: Adds a gentle touch of color to your cheeks.

Must-Have Products for Natural Makeup - Lip tint

Lip Tint: Gives your lips a natural flush that complements the overall soft makeup look.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Natural Makeup

Guide to Applying Natural Makeup - Skin Prep: Laying Foundation

1. Skin Prep: Laying the Foundation

The key to flawless makeup starts well before the makeup itself—it begins with great skin care. Here's how to prep your skin:

Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type to remove dirt and oils. This creates a clean slate for makeup application.
Moisturize: Hydration is crucial, even for oily skin types. Choose a moisturizer that fits your skin’s needs and apply it evenly. This helps makeup go on more smoothly and stay put.
Prime: A good primer can fill in pores, control shine, and help your makeup last longer. Apply a thin layer and let it set for a few minutes before moving on to foundation.

Guide to Applying Natural Makeup - Foundation and concealer: creating canvas

2. Foundation and Concealer: Creating the Canvas

A natural look needs a perfect base that doesn’t feel heavy:

Foundation Application: Use a damp beauty sponge or a stippling brush to apply a light layer of tinted moisturizer or BB cream. Start from the center of your face and blend outward to ensure even coverage without buildup.
Concealer: Only use concealer where necessary, like under the eyes to brighten dark circles or on blemishes to hide redness. Dab it on gently with your ring finger or a small concealer brush and blend outwards for a seamless finish.

Guide to Applying Natural Makeup - eyes: subtle definition

3. Eyes: Subtle Definition

Natural eye makeup should enhance, not overwhelm:

Eyeshadow: Choose neutral shades like soft browns or muted taupes. Sweep a single shade across the eyelid or use a slightly darker shade in the crease to add depth subtly.
Eyeliner: For a soft definition, use a brown eyeliner pencil. Lightly dot along the upper lash line rather than drawing a line. Smudge gently with a brush or cotton swab for a naturally fuller lash appearance.
Mascara and Brows: Apply a light coat of mascara to top lashes only, avoiding clumping. For brows, brush them upward with a clear or tinted brow gel to keep them in place and looking natural.

Guide to Applying Natural Makeup - cheeks a hint of color

4. Cheeks: A Hint of Color

Natural doesn’t mean devoid of color, just thoughtfully applied:

Blush Application: Cream blushes work well for a dewy, natural flush. Smile and dab a small amount on the apples of your cheeks, blending upwards towards the temples with your fingers or a sponge. Stick to shades like peach or soft pink that mimic your natural blush.

Guide to Applying Natural Makeup - lips: finishing touch

5. Lips: The Finishing Touch

Complete your natural makeup look with the right lip color:

Lip Color: Choose a lip tint or a hydrating lip balm in a shade close to your natural lip color. This enhances your lips without the harsh lines of a traditional lipstick.
Application: Apply the tint or balm starting at the center of your lips and blend outwards. For a more polished look, you can use your fingertip to dab the color on, creating a stain that looks inherently yours.

By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to achieve a natural makeup look that enhances your best features without looking overdone. Remember, the goal is to look refreshed and effortlessly polished.

Tips for Perfecting Your Natural Makeup

Blend, Blend, Blend: Smooth blending is crucial for natural makeup. Ensure there are no harsh lines or visible makeup edges.
Choose the Right Colors: Stick to hues that match and enhance your natural skin tone. Avoid bold, unnatural colors for this look.
Light Application: Apply thinly and build up as needed. Natural makeup should enhance, not mask your features.

Adapting Your Natural Look for Any Occasion

Natural makeup is versatile:

Daytime: Stick with matte finishes and soft, understated colors.
Evening: Add a little shimmer to your cheeks or lids and consider a slightly deeper lip color to transition your look for night-time effortlessly.

Keeping Your Natural Makeup Fresh All Day

Set Your Look: A good setting spray can keep your makeup in place longer.
Smart Touch-Ups: Carry blotting papers and a small concealer for quick fixes to keep your makeup fresh throughout the day.

Wrapping It Up

Mastering natural makeup is all about embracing your true beauty and presenting the most confident version of yourself. We hope these tips help you perfect your natural makeup application so you can feel prepared and stunning for any occasion.