I love bold, colorful makeup looks as much as the next person. But when it comes to my everyday makeup, I’m usually drawn to something more low-key. Yes, I’m talking about no-makeup makeup. Think: I-woke-up-like-this skin, defined brows, and glowing cheekbones.
Whether you deal with hyperpigmentation or acne, and regardless of your skin type or tone, it’s possible—and rather easy!—to create a natural makeup look that subtly enhances your features. Ahead, we’ve compiled a simple, step-by-step guide on how to create a natural, fresh- faced makeup look that actually lasts all day (featuring some top-notch products from Thrive Causemetics). Keep reading to discover how you can bring this look to life.
How to Create a Natural Makeup Look
Step One: Fill in Your Brows
Brows are always the first step for me, no matter what makeup look I’m creating that day. Brush up your brows with the spoolie on one end of the Waterproof Eyebrow Liner to give them a fuller look. Then, use the pencil to fill in any bare spots. Instead of holding the pencil firmly down by the tip, hold it higher up—this helps create soft, gentle strokes that don’t immediately read as fake.
After your brows are all filled in, go back in with the Clear Brow Gel. The lightweight formula sets your brow and refines the shape without adding extra bulk. Pro-tip: For added volume and definition, I backcomb my brows. First, rake the gel from the tail of the brow toward the inner corner. Then, brush your brows upwards, from the inner corner back to the tails.
Step Two: Use Lightweight Concealer
Don’t go overboard with the concealer—just apply it where you need it. The Buildable Blur Creaseless Concealer comes with a small and flat applicator, making it easy to be precise when it comes to covering everything from barely-there blemishes to dark circles. You can either use your fingers to blend in the formula or tap it into your skin with the Blend + Blur Sponge.
I also like to apply a light layer of concealer under the brow and lightly blend it in with my finger to add even more shape and definition to my eyebrows.
Step Three: Swipe On Eyeshadow
Opt for an eyeshadow shade that’s similar to your natural skin tone, swipe it across your eyelids, then blend with the built-in blending sponge for a soft, monochromatic look. For more definition, grab another eyeshadow shade that’s one or two shades darker than your skin tone, apply it into your crease, then blend.
Step Four: Line Your Lashes and Apply Mascara
Run the Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner along the upper lash line to softly define and sharpen the eyes. You can also use the built-in sponge to smudge out the formula; you’ll still get the added definition and shape but with a smokier finish. Then, follow up with a few coats of Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara for full, thick lashes.
Step Six: Blend Your Foundation
Next, dot the CC cream across your face then blend it in with a damp makeup sponge for a dewy finish. CC stands for color correcting so this formula is great for smoothing out texture, evening out skin tone, and covering up acne. Plus, the buildable formula allows you to choose between sheer or full-coverage. Regardless of what finish you opt for, you won’t feel the foundation on your skin—it’s extremely lightweight.
Step Seven: Tap on Highlighter
Swirl a fluffy brush into the Brilliant Face Highlighter then tap the pigment onto your brow bone (right underneath your eyebrow), the top of your cheekbones, and the tip of your nose for a quick, natural-looking glow up.
Step Eight: Dab on a Lip Tint
No barely-there makeup look is complete without adding a subtle sheen across your lips. Use either a clear lip tint or one in the same color family as your eyeshadow shade for a natural look. You won’t have to worry about constant touch-ups throughout the day; the Sheer Strength Lip Tint moisturizes your lips while giving you a light, buildable stain that lasts.
