How to Achieve a No-Makeup Makeup Look in 5 Easy Steps

No-makeup makeup looks are in a category all their own. Depending on execution, a barely there moment can skew minimalist or all-out luxurious, with both approaches achieved through the use of soft, neutral shades thoughtfully applied with a light hand.

A standout no-makeup makeup look combines of the use of textures and monochromatic tones, explains makeup artist Fara Homidi. “Is the skin quality matte all over with just a translucent shine on the eyelids to pop the eyes, or is it about a dewy, healthy, sun-kissed look? Small choices in texture take the look to the next level.”

A solid no-makeup makeup look also requires great nude shades, and experts note that the definition (and accessibility) of nude makeup has evolved significantly over the past few decades with the help of new technologies and broadened skin-tone spectrums. “In recent years, the definition of nude makeup has expanded to include a broader range of shades and techniques," says makeup artist Benjamin Puckey. "There's now a greater emphasis on customization to suit individual skin tones and features, as well as a focus on achieving a radiant, lit-from-within glow.”

Meet Our Expert

• Fara Homidi is a makeup artist and founder of an eponymous beauty brand.

• Benjamin Puckey is a makeup artist and the global color director at Clé de Peau Beauté.

• Katie Jane Hughes is a makeup artist and the founder of beauty brand KJH.brand.

Add in some major trends on social media—first with the heavy-handed and bold style, now with far more natural looks—and skin-matching makeup is practically ubiquitous.

As you create no-makeup makeup looks, "feel free to experiment with different shades and techniques to discover what works best for you,” says Puckey. "Ultimately, it's all about enjoying the process and celebrating your unique features.” Makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes doubles down on that notion, adding that a light and nude-focused look doesn’t need to be synonymous with monochromatic. "It's important to figure out what nude makeup look is for you, [for example,] do a nude brown eye, or do a more subtle cheek with brown mascara to edge your way into the trend, she says. Again, there are no rules.

Here are five easy (and easily individualized) steps to achieve the ultimate nude makeup look.

Step One: Create a Flawless Base

No-makeup makeup looks are minimal by nature, so starting with well-tended skin allows your chosen products to perform—and provides an opportunity for your natural skin to show through, too. “Currently, I’m using Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream, and it is great under makeup and gives a beautiful glow without having too much slip or feeling oily.” Puckey says. “It's about creating a flawless complexion with subtle enhancements that allow your best features to shine without overpowering them.”

Step Two: Choose Your Coverage

When it comes to complexion coverage, your texture defines your look. “Here is where I think there are some skin-finish choices: matte, natural matte, dewy, glass skin, et cetera,” says Homidi. Deciding what aesthetic you’re after will dictate your finish, with radiance and shimmer finishes for sun-kissed, sheer for minimalist, and matte to go glam. “Go in with the complexion product of choice, starting in the center of the face and moving outwards, only perfecting areas that need it,” Homidi advises. Once you choose the liquid foundation that works best for you, the rest of the detailing will become a touch more clear.

Step Three: Highlight and Contour

For that I-woke-up-like-this beat, soft highlighting and contouring can make add structure to your look. So once your base is moisturized, protected, and perfected, it’s time to add in angles. “Finish off any nude look with a hint of structure, whether that’s through contour or bronzer,” says Homidi. Puckey notes that it’s all about using subtle contrast to enhance your existing features, allowing your natural beauty to shine. Once you’ve drawn and blended your contour, go in with your preferred highlighter to deepen desired shadows while pulling light to areas like the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, and the cupid’s bow in order to further define your face’s given sculpture.

Step Four: Define the Eyes

When punctuating no-makeup makeup look, eye makeup demands depth and subtle intensity. “Define the eyes by applying neutral eyeshadows in shades like taupe, beige, and soft brown,” says Puckey, who suggests brushing the crease in a slightly darker shade while highlighting the inner corners with a shimmery champagne. Taupes and tawny caramels, chocolate and cocoa brows, and alabaster nudes provide a pretty palette—it all depends on your skin tone. As for the framing, Puckey recommends keeping things simple while delivering drama. “Focus on tight-lining for eyeliner, applying it close to the lashes and along the upper waterline to create the illusion of fuller lashes.” Finish with a coat (or several) of mascara.

Step Five: Paint Your Pout

Whether or not you favor a full face of nude, a nude lip is always an aspirational choice. Select a nude lipstick in your preferred finish (matte, high-gloss, or shimmer) that features undertones that play well with your coloring. Opting for a pinky nude or a peachy nude can also add a bit more dimension to your look. While Homidi suggests lining your lips with a coordinated pencil, the better to play up your pout, lipstick worn alone works just as well.

Read the original article on InStyle