The makeup industry changed a lot after the 2020 lockdowns. With less reason to wear makeup, people started embracing their natural beauty and letting their skin breathe. Free from beauty standards, many found new confidence in their bare-faced look. This shift led to the popularity of the “No-Makeup” makeup style. “No-Makeup makeup isn’t just a trend—it’s a symbol of timeless, effortless beauty,” says Jen Ho, founder of Jen Ho Artistry. Here, Jen shares her tips on how to master this look.
Jennifer Ho is a highly respected professional hair and makeup artist with over a decade of experience in the industry. Through her brand, Jen Ho Makeup Artistry, she offers services mainly in Hong Kong, Paris, and Vancouver.
Known for her signature styles of ‘Natural glow but photogenic makeup’ and ‘Wearable Western makeup,’ Jennifer has garnered a loyal client base who often request her sought-after looks. She enhances her clients’ features to bring out their best version of beauty.
Jen continuously hones her craft by attending advanced classes in various locations, including Austria, Los Angeles, Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Her commitment to learning ensures that she remains at the forefront of the industry.
What is the “No-Makeup” Makeup?
The “No-Makeup” makeup look gives you a fresh, glowing, and natural appearance while letting your skin’s real texture shine. It’s all about looking naturally beautiful, even with makeup on. Despite the name, this look isn’t just about skipping products. It needs smart application and good skin prep. Here’s a quick guide to get that effortless, flawless look.
How to Get the ‘No Makeup’ Look?
1. Beauty Begins with Skin
Start by prepping your skin—it’s key to a great no-makeup makeup look. Healthy skin helps products blend easily and keeps your look natural. First, exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. Then, hydrate well and apply SPF to protect your skin. Choose a primer that matches your skin type: water-based for dry skin and silicone-based for oily skin. For a natural glow, dab a bit of illuminating primer on your cheekbones, nose bridge, and under your eyes. This enhances radiance and evens out your complexion.
2. Sheer Foundation
Apply foundation for a second-skin effect. Use a light touch to keep it breathable and natural. Just 1-2 thin layers of hydrated foundation should do the trick. For extra coverage, check step 3.
3. Use Concealer Smartly
Concealer works best when used on specific areas, unlike foundation. Pick a shade just a bit lighter than your skin tone to add brightness without losing the natural look. Use a fluffy brush for a soft, light finish, and mix your concealer with a bit of your hydrated foundation. This blends seamlessly, enhancing your natural beauty.
4. Soft Sculpting
Pick a foundation 2-3 shades darker than your skin to add contour and shape to your face. It’s lighter than regular contour, so it blends easily. For a stronger look, you can layer a contour product over it to define your features more.
5. Fresh-Faced Glow
For a natural look, skip shimmery or glittery highlighters. Choose a liquid highlighter instead. Apply it before any powders for a soft, fresh glow—like just-washed skin.
6. Create a Natural Cheek and Lip Color
A natural blush and lip color give you a fresh, lively look. Soft pink tones add a healthy, natural flush to your cheeks and lips. Try blending a bit of brown or orange lipstick with pink to create soft, unique shades. Apply blush with a light, sweeping motion so it blends smoothly. For a cohesive look, dust a bit on your eyelids, nose, and chin too.
7. Cream Eyeshadows
Choose bright, creamy eyeshadows that match your skin tone. They’ll add a subtle shine and highlight your eye shape. Creamy textures blend easily. You can also use your bronzer as eyeshadow for added warmth and depth. These easy tricks give your eyes a soft, natural look.
8. Define Your Lashes
Natural lashes are trending, so a lash curler is a must. If you like mascara, go for a lengthening one to add more volume. For a softer look, choose brown mascara. It may seem like black, but its lighter pigment gives a more natural, effortless finish.
9. The Setting Spray Secret
Skipping setting spray in a minimal makeup look is a missed chance. Even with simple products, setting spray helps blend everything smoothly for a natural finish. It also keeps your makeup in place all day and adds a subtle glow. Don’t skip this step—it takes your minimal makeup to the next level.
Conclusion
In conclusion, setting spray is a key step in achieving a flawless, long-lasting minimal makeup look. It ensures everything stays in place, enhances your skin’s natural radiance, and gives a seamless finish. Make it a part of your routine to elevate your makeup game effortlessly.
