The Ultimate Guide To Natural Looking Makeup For the Beauty Beginner by Pilar

Illustration by: Sophie Hunt

When applying makeup, most people are so focused on hiding their imperfections that they forget to highlight their natural perfections. Let your natural beauty shine! 

I've put together my top tips for a natural "no makeup makeup" look, perfect for school, college, work, or just for your general everyday look. I really like to take a "less is more" approach, using makeup to cover only redness or the parts in your skin where there are imperfections, rather than covering the entire face.

Even though makeup can help to make your face look flawless, a good anti-acne cleanser and moisturiser will help make your skin look healthy and glow naturally, with no need for make- up in the future! Try Neuterogena’s Visibly Clear Grapefruit Cleanser, or Visibly Clear On The Spot Gel (only for an emergency), and La Roche Posay Compensating Soothing Moisturiser.

A good concealer means no need for foundation, but if you really feel the need to wear foundation, why not try to switch to a tinted moisturiser instead? My favourites include: L’oreal Eau de Teint (which practically feels like you are wearing practically nothing on your face), Garnier Skin Perfector BB Cream, and Sephora Tinted Moisturiser (UK Shipping Available). Remember, it's better to go for a slightly lighter shade of concealer or tinted moisturiser/foundation rather than a darker shade. If you want to fake a tan, you can then go over with a light bronzer.

When it comes to concealer, I suggest using a slightly lighter shade and take your time dabbing it into the skin using a small brush. Try Clinique Advanced Concealer, Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage, Boi-ing Concealer by Benefit, or Too-Faced Absolutely Flawless. It's also important to invest in good brushes. The key for a natural look is really in the blending of the products, and brushes will also ensure that even the smallest amount of product will go further. Real Techniques have some great affordable but good quality brushes.

A light powder on top of your concealer is all you need to set the product as well as to give you a natural matte finish. Give Hello Flawless Powder by Benefit a try. Mac also do very natural and solid powders, which I would highly recommend.

For a really natural look, consider using brown mascara and a eyeliner. It will still open up and define your eyes without looking too harsh. Try Benefit BADgal Brown Mascara and Rimmel Scandaleyes Kohl Liner. 

For dry lips, stick to a natural moisturising lip product rather than lipstick or lipgloss, such as PosieBalm by Benefit. If you have irritated skin, acne, redness, or scarring, consider skipping blusher or bronzer as this will only reinforce the redness. If not, consider using a creme blush like Benefit Majorette to amplify your natural flush. 


In addition to these tips, I recommend watching Lisa Eldridge’s “No Makeup Makeup Tutorial". She has the most amazing advice, and tips for great skin and natural looking makeup that you probably didn't know before!

Pilar is a student and blogger. You can find her over on either of her blogs: theangelwearsnada.blogspot.fr mintandpink.blogspot.fr/. Find more posts by Pilar here...

ILLUSTRATION BY SOPHIE HUNT. YOU CAN FIND MORE OF HER WORK AT www.sophiahuntillustration.com.