What you need to know to master the natural makeup look

We love that makeup can give you cheekbones you never knew you had (thank you, contouring!) or that a well-angled winged eyeliner can make eyes look more lifted and youthful. But our favourite way to use makeup is to make us look like us, only a little better. And we’re not alone: The natural makeup look continues to be a top makeup trend - especially here in Australia.

The ‘no makeup’ makeup look takes a pared-back approach to your makeup, using only the bare minimum products to even out your skin tone, conceal imperfections (optional) and subtly enhance your features.

Celebrity natural makeup inspiration

And it’s not just a great everyday look that you can wear to work, school or on weekends; ‘no makeup’ makeup is a regular fixture on red carpets - instead of bold, bright and eye-catching makeup looks, celebs regularly opt for glowing skin, a hint of mascara and a nude lip. It’s the best way to let a stunning gown truly shine (wedding gowns included! Check out these celebs who opted for a natural wedding makeup look on their big day). Celebrities like Jessica Biel, Karlie Kloss and Jessica Alba are all big fans of the look.

What’s the difference between makeup-free and ‘no makeup’ makeup

The difference between the natural makeup look and going makeup-free (besides the obvious - one actually uses makeup) isn't all that much. The two should look pretty similar. Except, when you have makeup on your side you’re able to make your skin look a little more glowy, your base a tad more imperfection-free, and your features pop ever so slightly.

Natural makeup look tutorial

Good news! It doesn’t take a lot of effort or products to nail a natural makeup look because less is definitely more. This is how to do natural makeup.

#1 / A lightweight foundation

Your base 9and foundation of choice) is super important. It needs to look like skin, but offer a touch of coverage to smooth out your skin tone. One of our (and our Review Crew®’s) top picks is Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation. It never looks cakey and imparts a natural radiance onto skin. It’s also rumoured to be one of Meghan Markle’s favourites, and we all know she's the duchess of natural makeup.

#2 / Concealer

The natural makeup look isn’t about creating an airbrushed base, or hiding your unique features like your freckles. But, you may want to reach for a concealer to cover up dark circles or cancel out redness. Our Beauty Editor, Iantha swears by Too Faced Born This Way Concealer for a “natural and undetectable finish”.

#3 / Blush

When applied with a light hand and in the right spot, blush can add warmth and a healthy rosy glow to skin. The best place to apply it is on the apples of your cheeks, because that’s where you’d see colour if you naturally blushed. Try NYX Professional Makeup Powder Blush - it currently has a five-star rating on our site, with many reviews saying it delivers a healthy glow to the complexion. Choosing the perfect shade for your skin tone is also a must - here’s how to find your best blush hue.

#4 / A nude lipstick

Nude lipstick continues to be a top trend, and every makeup kit should have one. If you’re yet to find your ideal match, follow our tips on how to pick the right shade and then shop our top picks for the best nude lipsticks. One of our Review Crew®’s favourites is the Nude By Nature Moisture Shine Lipstick. Lip balm or a clear gloss works too.

#5 / A lengthening mascara (optional)

If you’re the type that won’t leave the house without a slick of mascara, then go for it. But opt for a formula that focuses on defining and lengthening lashes over volumising. You want to enhance the look of your eyes, without looking like you’ve done anything. Our go-to for a natural lash look is shu uemura ultimate natural mascara.

A note about eyeshadow: Eyeshadow isn’t off limits, but just choose your shade and finish wisely. Matte or a subtle shimmer (avoid glitter or metallic finishes) in either a skin-toned shade or something neutral like taupe will work best for a natural eye makeup look.

For another take on the natural makeup look, watch this natural makeup tutorial.

If you want more ideas on the best products for creating a ‘no makeup’ makeup look, check out these suggestions from Reddit.

What are your go-to products for a 'no makeup' makeup look?

Main image credit: Getty