How to Nail the Natural Makeup Look Like a Pro

What Is the ‘No Makeup’ Makeup Look?

Natural makeup has been gracing many a catwalk, serving us dewy, blushy, au naturelle goodness that has us reaching for the makeup wipes and going barefaced. Except when we remove all traces of makeup, we aren’t looking at a clear, glowing complexion that is reminiscent of those “I just woke up” selfies on Instagram. Instead – if you’re anything like me – you’ll have a slightly pasty, rosy-cheeked, unkempt reflection staring back at you with dark circles that give away the fact you only had five hours sleep last night. Yeah, we’re (unfortunately) not seeing that on the runway.

With that in mind, we were wondering how one may achieve this natural-looking flawlessness. Well, besides layering on the airbrushing and filters, there are a few tricks of the trade that enable you to pull of a naturally perfect complexion. So, say goodbye to the full coverage foundations, glittery eyeshadows and high pigment blushers (for now) because we’re stripping things back to basics. Read on to discover how to pull off the natural makeup look.

What Skincare Steps Help Create a Natural Glow?

Tone your way to beautiful skin

To get a long-lasting healthy sheen, you’re going to need more than just a glow-inducing primer. Clear, fresh-looking skin is the key to achieving a successful 'no-makeup' makeup look, which is why skin care is a key step in this ritual.

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise!

Skin should both look and feel naturally beautified, which is why it’s so important to provide your complexion with long-lasting hydration. With the correct moisturiser, the appearance of fine lines and flakiness can be successfully avoided, providing you with your best glow-up yet.

How Do You Prime for a Natural Finish?

Okay, we’re nearly done with the skin prep now, we promise! Next up is priming. Want that dewy-yet-not-sweaty natural glow? Prime. Desperate for your look to stay in place all day? Prime. Fed up with creasing? PRIME. Get yourself a decent primer that has the ability to lock down your look and add that sun-reflecting glow. Our tried-and-tested favourite is the Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Facial Primer & Brightener. It provides a soft, radiant look to all complexions and gives you your brightest finish yet.

Do You Really Need to Colour Correct for No-Makeup Makeup?

It’s all well and good applying a splash of sheer coverage foundation or BB cream, but it won’t get you very far if you don’t colour correct first. BB creams will give you a boost of warmth but won't cover up red spots or dark circles. What you need is to avoid using heavy-duty foundations and concealers whilst still maintaining a flawless complexion. The answer? A strong colour correcting primer. The Stila One Step Correct Kitten is your go-to weapon of choice for battling uneven skin tones. Mask away dark circles, redness and grey tones with the lightweight yet pigmented serum.

What’s the Best Way to Add Subtle Colour Without Foundation?

Now don’t get us wrong, we love a full coverage glam look. But to nail that fresh-faced visage you’re going to need a sheer pop of warm colour. Depending on how much coverage you need, opt for a light-wearing skin tint, such as BB cream or CC cream. Their moisturising formulas not only keep skin looking peppy but also work to add an even amount of true-to-life colour that gives a healthy glow to paler, dulling complexions.

The Kevyn Aucoin Stripped Nude Skin Tint is the perfect option for a real-skin finish.

Glow Up: How Do You Get That Natural Dew With Makeup?

One thing you’ve probably noticed from all of these Pinterest photos is the unearthly, goddess-like glow each of these ladies has. The secret? A liquid highlighter. You’re already going to have that naturally dewy look from your skin care routine but to ramp it up a notch, add a super blendable highlighting formula for a natural glow. SOSU by SJ has created the ultimate glow shimmer stick that can be used to highlight the best parts of your face and body without looking too full-on or OTT.

What’s the Best Way to Define Brows and Lashes Naturally?

Subtlety is key when it comes to ‘no makeup’ makeup. To save room in your makeup kit, try using either a brown or clear mascara that can be used on both your lashes and eyebrows. The aim is to define and enhance in a natural-looking way, which is why brown is a safer option than harsh blacks. The mascara gracing our kits is Perricone MD No Makeup Mascara.

What Kind of Lip Colour Works for a Natural Look?

Lipstick makes the perfect finishing touch to any makeup look, but when you're going for a natural vibe you need something that's a little more subtle. Lip oils are a great way to give your pout a pop of colour, plus they keep lips soft, smooth and hydrated throughout the day. Take your pick from tinted lip oils or complete the all-natural look with a clear sheen.

FAQ About Natural Makeup

What is the no-makeup makeup look?
It’s a style of makeup that enhances your features without looking overly done—think sheer coverage, soft brows, dewy skin and subtle colour.

Do you need skincare before applying natural makeup?
Yes! Proper skin prep—like toning and moisturising—is essential for a smooth, glowing base without needing heavy foundation.

Can I use BB cream instead of foundation?
Absolutely. BB creams offer a sheer tint and hydration, giving your skin an even tone while still looking natural.

How do I cover dark circles without using thick concealer?
Try a colour-correcting primer or serum like the Stila One Step Correct Kitten to neutralise shadows with less layering.

What’s the best way to add glow without looking shiny?
Use a liquid or cream highlighter in key areas (cheekbones, brow bones) to get a soft, radiant finish without sparkle overload.

Now you've found the perfect 'no makeup' makeup style, you're probably going to want to keep it in place. Read the ultimate guide on how to beat the midday makeup meltdown to keep your look on lock down.