The makeup that wasn’t: the new style is to look like you aren’t wearing any
It seems that we’re in the middle of a makeup revolution. That’s to say, a revolution against makeup. As the bold red lip and smoky eye still have their standing on red carpets, nightclubs, and drag shows, these days the beauty industry has been taking a seemingly odd position, using bare-faced spoke models to promote a product that gives the appearance of wearing no makeup at all.
This stance has even made its way into what may seem like one of the most superficial industries today — modeling. Started in 2013, the British modeling agency Anti-Agency prides itself in its stance of hiring people based on their personality and creativity rather than looks and size. Looking through a picture of their clients, rarely a bold lip or heavy eye is found. Dewy, youthful complexions have replaced the thick eyeliner and bright blush of the past.
But just because the look of cakey makeup may be out, doesn’t mean we have to exhibit every blemish and under eye circle that may creep up on our face without any cover. Many in the beauty industry have begun to tout a range of natural looking foundations and creams — blendable and lightweight formulas that have positive ramifications for women, and men. No longer forced to the sidelines while their female counterparts experiment freely with a range of makeup products, men can also employ these makeup tricks to cover blemishes and highlight flattering features. The result? Smooth and radiant skin that looks like it came from good genes rather than a makeup tube.
Below are some application tips and tricks that can help both men and women achieve a complexion that looks naturally flawless. The fact that any type of product or brush was involved can be our little secret.
Step One: Primer or BB Cream
Both men and women can benefit greatly from a good base layer, especially if it contains a moisturizer or SPF protection. Some of my favorites have been Clinique Superprimer and Neutrogena Healthy Skin Primer, both containing moisturizers that help keep the face fresh all day long.
For a little added color, BB creams are all the rage, promising hydrating and evening qualities with a little added tint. Two Faced Beauty Balm is tooted for its all-natural, dewy appearance, while L’Oreal Paris Magic B.B. Cream contains “beautifying beads” that adjust to your skin tone, and an additional hydrating lotion.
Step Two: Highlighter
To naturally accent the face, apply then lightly blend a liquid highlighter. Clinique Up-Lighting Liquid Illuminator highlights cheeks and brow bones for a natural luminosity, with one shade working for all skin tones. Dab a small amount from the bottom corner of your eye to your cheek, following the natural cheekbone. This application style does double duty, as it will also bring attention to your eyes.
Step Three: Foundation
If you need powder, go for a light, oil absorbing formula, like bareMinerals Matte Foundation. Apply this powder with added SPF 15 with brush in a circular motion, blending it well. This will give you a natural look, rather than a cakey appearance that can be the result of heavier foundation applications.
