How do they do it? You know who I’m talking about — the girl who somehow looks wide awake in your 8 a.m., or the woman who somehow shows up to the office at 9:00 a.m. on a Monday that looks like she just got back from the Bahamas — her skin is glowing, her eyebrows are perfectly shaped and she's all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.
While some of those women may actually just wake up like that (probably due to some sort of dark magic), most of those women are probably using coveted “no-makeup” makeup tips. Luckily, I’m here to share some of my favorite no-makeup makeup tips!
1. Skip the foundation
I know what you’re thinking, but trust me on this. Swap your foundation for your favorite sunscreen or a light moisturizer. If you’re concerned about an uneven skin tone and believe you need a little more coverage, try a tinted moisturizer! Tinted moisturizers work to moisturize your skin and even out complexion without the heavy, full coverage of foundation.
2. Conceal, but sparingly
If you opted for the tinted moisturizer in the first step and are happy with the level of coverage, there's no need to conceal! However, if you have a stubborn zit that won’t go away or you’re suffering from bags under your eyes, pick up your favorite concealer. The trick is to not overdo it, use what you need and no more than that to conceal any blemishes.
3. Don’t skip the eyeshadow
Contrary to popular belief, eyeshadow is essential to a no-makeup makeup look. Pick a matte nude that is close to your skin tone and gently apply it to your whole lid.
4. Brighten your eyes
Yes, you can still wear eyeliner! Using white or nude eyeliner, line your waterline or put a little on the inner corners of your eyes. This will instantly brighten your eyes, and make you appear more awake!
5. Put the falsies away, ladies
To finish your eyes, do a swipe or two of mascara. If you have lighter hair, try a dark brown mascara; it won’t look as stark against your decidedly simple makeup.
6. No, I didn’t forget about brows
Instead of filling in your brows with a pencil or pomade, opt for brow gel. Using clear or tinted eyebrow gel, brush and tame your brows for a naturally polished look.
7. Add a pop of color
Switch your powder blush for a cream blush, and add a pop of color to your cheeks. Try looking for a subtle, nude shade. Using cream blush will allow for a more natural finish; it will blend without the layer of foundation.
8. Highlight, but skip the contour
After you’ve applied blush, it’s time for highlighter! Dab a little on top of your cheekbones to bring your look together. Again, go for a cream-based highlighter to allow for easier blending.
9. Pucker up, buttercup
Apply a swipe of your favorite lip tint to finish your look. Try a tinted lip balm or a nude lipstick to complete your no-makeup makeup look.