Sun-Kissed Beauty

Adopt the no-makeup makeup look for summer with these on-trend tips from Taylor Daniel.

BY GELISH

06.19.24

When the heat is on, the last thing you want is to cake your face in makeup. So what’s a girl to do when you still want to look glowing without going completely makeup-free? You adopt the no-makeup makeup trend! That is, you use light products to enhance your features without piling it on. It’s perfect for hot summer days (and nights!) because you’re not weighing down your face with cosmetics that could potentially slip away with sun and sweat. The key is using the right products and focusing on the areas that are most important to you. Here, Taylor Daniel gives you tips for getting that gorgeous no-makeup makeup look, plus how to keep the look fresh and on-trend for the season.

Tip #1

While it’s called the no-makeup look, it’s actually adopting the illusion of not wearing makeup. You still want your skin to look even, so start with a tinted moisturizer instead of using a heavy foundation. And if you don’t want to invest in yet another product, simply mix a bit of moisturizer with your favorite foundation to lighten the load while imparting moisture to your skin for a beautiful glow. “Or opt for concealing only what you consider to be ‘problem areas,’” suggests Taylor, “like dark circles or blemishes, while leaving the rest of the skin uncovered. Be sure to blend well for a seamless look!”

Tip #2

This summer, skin’s not just glowing, it’s ultra glossy, as proven by the radiant models at the Maison Margiela spring/summer 2024 runway show. That means adding a cream highlight not only to the high points of your cheeks, but imparting extra gloss to lips and even on the center of the eyelid. But it’s not only about what makeup you use; it’s also all about skincare. “Skincare is your friend when it comes to achieving the perfect base for makeup,” notes Taylor. “A simple moisturizer with SPF will work wonders for helping you achieve glowing skin. If your skin is very dry, you can even opt for face oil instead of moisturizer.”

Tip #3

An overly done brow is too much for summer. Instead, opt for brushed and natural. “For an ultra-laid-back brow, use a bit of eye shadow in a similar shade as your brows to fill in any sparse areas. This will give you definition while keeping the brow look very soft overall,” offers Taylor. Or, if your brows run extra sparse, use a brow pen with light flicks to fill out brows for a feathery look instead of a heavy pencil or powder. Finish with a swipe of clear brow gel to keep everything in place.

Tip #4

Less is more with a no-makeup look, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still add some OOMPH. The key is to choose your favorite feature to emphasize and focus solely on that.

For cheeks: Go bold with blush, but keep the rest of the face neutral. “Focus on shades that give you the sun kissed look,” Taylor says. Her tip? “Apply to the tops of your cheekbones and across the bridge of your nose for a naturally flushed appearance.”

For eyes: Add a pop of blue! If a whole lid of eye shadow is too daunting, line the waterline with azure or add a hint of color with a swipe of sapphire-tinted mascara.

For lips: A rosy pout on a clean face is ultra chic and just so gorgeous for summer. Make it seasonally apropos by opting for an orange-red or pink-red instead.

Tip #5

Keep powders to a minimum, as they can make your skin look too made up and cakey for summer. Instead, use cream products applied with your fingers to ensure makeup stays light and fresh.

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