HOW TO CREATE A FRESH-FACED, NO MAKEUP LOOK… WITH MAKEUP

Allow me to set the record straight…

I love red lipstick, black eyeliner and pink blush as much as, well, you guys, but the dog days of summer are as good an excuse as any to go makeup-free (or at least, just about).

A natural, fresh-faced look is flattering on all faces and shapes, however it works best when skin is smooth, blemish-free and well cared for.

If you have problematic skin, you are better off focusing on heavier neutral palettes of shadow and liner on the eyes to detract attention from any unwanted blemishes.

Here, I’ve come up with a list of makeup bag must-haves for going neutral. The best part: You really don’t need much, making this a great time-saving makeup trend and look for anyone dealing with a mad rush in the mornings (aka most of us).

Skin illuminator

Try Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Moonstone (bonus: it’s SPF 20). For skin that looks refreshed without hours of sleep, apply this luminizer which is formulated to counteract any red areas or purple undertones and bounce light off your face.

Tinted moisturiser

Try Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser SPF 20. A 5 cent-sized amount is all you need for radiant, even skin in seconds. To make it invisible, sweep the tinted moisturiser onto your face with a foundation brush or beauty blender. Blend it out and up from the centre of your face then lightly buff your skin so all you’re left with is a super-thin veil of makeup of your face.

Sheer cream blush

Try Charlotte Tilbury Beach Stick in Moonbeach, a translucent peach. It blends beautifully so you practically can’t stuff it up. Apply it after your foundation, using a clean foundation brush so the product sits perfectly on your skin, and top with translucent powder to lock the pigment in place.

Powder bronzer

Try the bronzing shade from Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow Palette in Fair/Medium – sweep it along the cheek bones, the eye lids and bottom lash line.

Brow Gel

Try ModelCo More Brows Eyebrow Thickening Gel. Sweep it through brows to lift and frame your face. Trust me, this isn’t a step to skip.

Lash-separating mascara

Try Benefit Roller Lash Mascara. Go for two coats. If you’re fair-haired, try three.

Lip balm

Last but not least, to finish, dab a nourishing balm onto lips. Try Lanolips 101 Ointment in Banana Balm 3-in-1.

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