We’ve been seeing the no-makeup makeup look everywhere lately, especially on the red carpet. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Zendaya, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Halle Bailey have all been putting their natural features on display with a more subtle approach to their glam, and the Met Gala followed suit: At the typically over-the-top affair, this year’s looks were noticeably more pared back than usual.
Now, we’d be lying if we said no-makeup makeup was just throwing on some tinted moisturizer and calling it a day. There is a method behind this look that calls for strategic product usage and placement. The result: an “I woke up like this” glow that actually took a little bit of effort, but it just doesn’t look that way.
What is the no makeup makeup look?
Jillian Dempsey, celebrity makeup artist and founder of her namesake brand, describes the vibe of no-makeup makeup as “you on a very good day with a lot of rest.” So basically, it’s the cheat code to looking well-rested when really you’re just running on a double espresso and a prayer. Tayaba Jafri, Laura Mercier global beauty director, adds that it’s all about the look of not wearing makeup, even though you totally are. Her take? ”Makeup shouldn’t walk into the room before you.” And with this look, it’s all eyes on you, not your makeup.
“The no makeup makeup look is also known as the, ‘Oh gee, I just woke up like this,’ fake out,” adds celebrity makeup artist and esthetician Amanda Gabbard, who says that the makeup trend isn’t going anywhere. “The trend is here to stay since it can be achieved by people of all ages, skin types, those with little to no makeup skills, and affordable products, all while still feeling like yourself: not too made up and not completely bare faced,” she adds.
How to get the no makeup makeup look
1. Prep your skin.
In order to be able to go a little lighter on the makeup, your skin care needs to be on point. Jafri says that exfoliation is key to rid the skin of any dryness or dullness; that way your complexion can really shine. Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore-Minimizing & Polishing Powder Cleanser offers just enough grit to slough off dead skin.
If you have a little time to kill, it’s also nice to pamper your skin and face a bit before you get into makeup. Dempsey recommends applying eye masks under both eyes for 15 minutes while vibrating and sculpting with her Gold Bar, which will help “to de-puff and look more refreshed and awake.”
