The “no-makeup makeup” trend has totally taken over TikTok, YouTube, and beauty aisles everywhere—and it’s not hard to see why. These days, all it takes is a swipe of balm blush, a flick of brow gel, and a light layer of tinted moisturizer to create a fresh, barely-there look that highlights your natural features instead of hiding them.
Gen Z has flipped the script on heavy contouring and cakey foundations by leaning into dewy skin, soft peachy lips, and subtle glows that show off rather than mask your real skin. For inspiration, think of Hailey Bieber’s signature makeup looks like the viral “strawberry girl” or “sugar plum fairy” aesthetic—chic, minimal, and totally doable.
Whether you’re just starting out in the world of beauty or you’re looking for a way to simplify your everyday makeup routine, here are four beginner-friendly tips to help you master the art of the no-makeup makeup look.
- Prep with sunscreen
Photo CreditEvery great makeup look starts with great skin, and sunscreen is a must-have in any beauty routine. As we’ve mentioned before, sunscreen isn’t just for beach days—it helps prevent sunburn, evens out skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and promotes smoother texture (which is key for that glass-skin vibe).
If you want a lightweight sunscreen you can wear every day, try the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunscreen SPF 70. It’s dermatologist-approved, non-greasy, and disappears into your skin like a dream. If you’re looking to double up on sun protection and sheer coverage, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Fluid SPF 40 is a great pick that evens out your skin tone while keeping you protected.
- Fluff the brows
If you only do one thing for your no-makeup makeup look, make it your brows. Polished, fluffy brows instantly pull your face together, define your eyes, and give that “I woke up like this” glow. For a simple yet sculpted brow, tried-and-true makeup products like Benefit’s Precisely My Brow Gel is a game changer. This lightweight formula adds color, shape, and hold all in one swipe. It gives a natural, fluffy finish while keeping your brows in place all day, which you can purchase on QVC.
Use the flat side of the applicator to brush upward in short strokes. Then, flip to the domed side to sculpt and shape. If you have any sparse areas, fill them in using Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil; it’s beginner-friendly and super precise.
- Opt for glowy blush
Blush is the secret weapon of any minimalist look—it brings life back to your face in the most natural way. While foundation and concealer work to even things out, blush adds a healthy flush of color to your cheeks. Glowy, dewy blush is especially trendy right now, and luckily, you don’t need to buy a new palette to get the look.
If you only have matte blush, try this trick: apply a slightly more intense layer than usual (lighter pink on the apples of your cheeks, darker pink toward your temples), then take your foundation brush—with just the leftover product on it—and gently pat over the blush. This blends everything together while giving you a soft, luminous finish. Looking for a glowy blush from the start? Try e.l.f. Putty Blush for a dewy effect or Maybelline Fit Me Blush if you prefer a soft matte that’s easy to blend.
- Finish with a glossy lip
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This year, forget the matte lipsticks; gloss is in. With just one swipe, gloss gives your lips a plump, hydrated look and adds just the right amount of polish to your barely-there makeup. The key is to go for a natural tint that enhances your existing lip color. We love Glossier’s Lip Gloss for its glassy shine and non-sticky finish. Another fave is the classic NYX Butter Gloss, which is affordable, super shiny, and available in tons of flattering shades like Tiramisu and Praline. For an even more natural look, layer a tinted lip balm like Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm underneath for extra hydration.
With just a few simple steps and the right products, you can totally master the no-makeup makeup look and glow with confidence—no filter needed.
