No-makeup makeup is one of the most deceptively challenging looks to accomplish. There’s a fine line between completely skipping makeup and looking like you’re definitely wearing it, so it takes a very deliberate approach to create a believably bare-faced-yet-next-level radiant finish.
Not sure where to start? Celebrity makeup artist Leah Darcy can help you with that—as well as with what to use, how to apply it, and what very common mistakes to avoid. Leah’s been behind many of Hailey Bieber’s no-makeup makeup looks (the ones that are always going viral on social media), so you know she’s got those good tips. And with a client list boasting the likes of Lori Harvey, Irina Shayk, and more, you’re in the hands of a serious expert.
But you’ll be thrilled to learn that it doesn’t take an expert hand to actually nail no-makeup makeup—just the right technique with the right products to do it with. Check out Leah’s advice and top picks to achieve your perfect no-makeup makeup look.
Leah’s technique for applying no-makeup makeup
In general, and unsurprisingly, less is typically more when it comes to no-makeup makeup. But some people’s less is a little more than other people’s less, so it’s important to start small—especially with complexion makeup.
“For a no-makeup makeup look, I work in very thin layers. It's always easier to add product than take away,” Leah says. She starts with the lightest application of concealer or foundation, either spot-treating or building up coverage as needed. “A touch of concealer under the eyes changes lives!"
But it’s not just how much you’re applying but also what tools you’re applying with and in what order. “I tend to apply [foundation] with a fluffy brush for sheer coverage and go over with a beauty sponge,” she says. “Using a damp sponge helps to really sheer out and blend everything together to look like skin.” After all, that’s the foundation of no-makeup makeup—no pun intended.
Leah’s favorite Milk products for no-makeup makeupFuture Fluid All Over Cream Concealer is an absolute must for Leah’s no-makeup makeup looks due to how lightweight and non-cakey it is. And while some highlighters and bronzers play a part in heavier makeup looks, Leah incorporates Matte Bronzer, Highlighter, and Sculpt Sticks into subtle beats, too. When it comes to choosing blush and lip colors, that’s all up to your personal preference and what looks best on your skin tone. There are numerous natural-looking shade options for Lip + Cheek, but if you want to add a boost of buildable boldness to your lips in an otherwise low-key look, Leah recommends the burgundy shade Muse, which also works as a gorgeous natural flush on dark skin tones. And perhaps the most important part is the products that keep your look lasting its longest: Hydro Grip Primer, Pore Eclipse Matte Translucent Setting Powder, and Hydro Grip Set + Refresh Spray. |
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What people typically get wrong when doing no-makeup makeupLike we said: Despite its minimalist look, no-makeup makeup can be complicated to achieve. “I think a common mistake when doing a no-makeup beat is not being selective with coverage and product placement,” Leah says. In other words, it really is OK to wear literally no makeup in some areas. “It’s all about maily concealing and setting problem areas and letting the rest of your skin live.” It’s also easy to make it look like you overdid it if you're using the brow and mascara shades you typically use with full-out looks. “I keep brows, eyes, and lashes soft and natural by using lighter shades,” she says. "I love using brown mascara on lashes for a soft effect.” What did we learn? When you’re doing no-makeup makeup like Leah Darcy, you’ve gotta get comfy with using a light hand. Make sure the products you’re using lend themselves to achieving that natural-looking finish and remember: Your whole face doesn’t need to be covered in concealer or foundation for you to get it right. |
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