Tutorial – How To Do Light Makeup

Learn how to wear makeup to hide imperfections and show your natural facial features.

Reviewed by Abhilasha Singh, Licensed Cosmetologist
Written by Nisha Baghadia

Fact-checked by Anu Pallavi • Jul 18, 2023

Image: Shutterstock

You have landed on the right page if you are a fan of the no-makeup makeup look. This article talks about some tips and tricks on how to do light makeup. The saying ‘less is more’ is relevant for makeup as, while occasions like weddings are parties require heavy makeup, most day-to-day activities call for simple and casual looks. Most weekday mornings are busy, and we do not get enough time for elaborate makeup with multiple products and steps. Again, light makeup goes perfectly well for the office, formal events, and birthday parties. It allows you to accentuate your natural features and embrace your imperfections. So, swipe up for some fantastic ideas for light makeup looks!

Keep In Mind

Apply Makeup In Natural Light: Apply makeup in natural light to ensure you have an accurate view of your skin tone and makeup colors.
Skin Tone: Choose makeup shades that complement your skin tone. For fair skin, opt for peachy or light pink shades. For medium skin, go for warm, golden hues. For dark skin, choose deeper shades like bronze or burgundy.
Hairstyle: Light makeup usually goes well with simple, low-maintenance hairstyles. Think of a sleek ponytail, messy bun, or natural waves.
Attire: Consider the occasion and outfit you’ll be wearing. Light makeup typically pairs well with simpler, more understated outfits. A classic white T-shirt, denim shorts, or a black dress are all great options.

In This Article

How To Do Light Makeup

Things Required For Light Makeup

Moisturizer
Primer
Tinted moisturizer/foundation
Concealer (optional)
Eyeshadow
Eyeliner
Mascara
Lipstick/Lip Gloss
Makeup brushes/sponge

Light Makeup Tutorial

Makeup For Face

It is important to follow a proper skin care routine before applying makeup.

Start by applying the moisturizer, and then use a sunscreen, if required. Use a primer if you want your makeup to stay on for a longer time. It also works as a base for your makeup.

After you’ve prepped your skin, apply a coat of foundation, starting from the center of your face. Blend it outwards in a circular motion for light coverage or in a dabbing motion for more coverage, with a stippling brush or a sponge to get an even complexion. You may use a concealer, if needed. If the foundation gives you the desired coverage, you may skip the concealer.

To seal the makeup, use a powder as it mattifies your skin and makes it look shine-free. A makeup routine is never complete without dusting with powder.

Use a fluffy powder brush in a sweeping motion, and apply the powder all over the face, specifically on the T-zone and the under-eye area.

You can finish off with a translucent/transparent/compact powder setting spray. For last-minute touch-ups, a powder is the ultimate go-to product.

Makeup For Cheeks

Take a blush and pat it on the apple of your cheeks using a fluffy blush brush. Blend it onto your cheekbones in the upward direction near the temples, as shown in the above image.

Remember, when dealing with colors, start by applying one coat of the color, and layer it up for more intensity. You can also use a bronzer for a sun-kissed look.

To make your cheeks appear glowy and dewy, go for a cream base/powder base highlighter in silver or gold shade, and apply it on the higher planes of the face, such as above the cheekbone, on the bridge of the nose, and on the center of the forehead. You can use either a brush or your fingers for this step.

Quick Tip

You may also select an earthy peach or rosy pink tint for your cheeks; use a tiny quantity of the product to create a stained, rosy effect.

Makeup For Eyes

Let’s start with the eyes. Use an eye primer as a base and set it with a powder before using concealer. This makes your eye makeup crease-proof and long-lasting.

For the eye makeup, pick a color of your choice. Since the article is about light makeup, I am using a neutral orange shade to complement the eyes and give them a fresher look. Load the product onto a flat or fluffy brush, and pat it on the eyelid. Blend it in a circular motion towards the crease. I have used only one shade to maintain the natural look.

Next, apply the eyeliner. You can opt for a pencil, gel, or liquid eyeliner, whatever you prefer.

Start applying the eyeliner from the outer corner of the eye, and gradually draw the line till the inner corner, stroke by stroke, with the help of a pointed / angular brush. In this case, I am using an eye pencil as that works best for me.

Ensure you draw the line close to the lash line and as thin as possible as it is a light makeup look.

Brows are an important part of your eye makeup. Fill your brows and groom them using an eyebrow pencil or an eyeshadow that is close to your brow color.

Curl your lashes as part of light makeup

To complete the eye makeup, curl your lashes and then apply a coat of mascara. Start from the roots of your lashes and wriggle the wand right up to the tips.

Apply more mascara on the roots and not along the length of the lashes, as using excess product on the length weighs the lashes down. For extended and voluminous lashes, go for a volumizing mascara.

Related: 8 Types Of Lip Makeup Products

Makeup For Lips

Prep your lips with lip balm or conditioner

Prep by scrubbing your lips to remove all the dead, chapped skin to ensure a smooth base. Then apply a lip conditioner or a lip balm to moisturize your lips before applying the lipstick.

Apply a nude pink or brown shade of your choice that complements the look. I have applied a lip gloss in a nude pink shade for an effortless look.

Quick Tip

Additionally, you can apply peach nude lipstick. Dab it on your lips if you want a subtle tint-like effect.

And that’s the final look – fresh, natural, and subtle.

Never let the lack of time stop you from looking great. Keep it light, keep it simple, and step out with confidence.

Infographic: 4 Steps To Nail The Light Makeup Look

Are you someone who loves a natural finish when it comes to makeup? If yes, then you have come to the right place. The “light makeup” look enhances and accentuates your features with minimal products and is suitable for any occasion. Want to know how to go about it? We have curated a step-by-step guide to help you get that light makeup look on point in the infographic below.

4 steps to nail the light makeup look(infographic)

Save the high-quality PDF version on your device now.

Download Infographic

On days when you would like to go light on makeup and let your skin breathe, the tips will come handy and help you create the barely-there makeup look. However, before getting started with your makeup application, make sure you follow your skincare routine regularly. It is a must to avoid the harmful effects of environmental stressors on your skin. Also, do not forget to drink plenty of water. It will give your skin the necessary hydration. Moreover, eating healthy food and sleeping on time will allow your skin to get the required nutrition. If all these are taken care of, you are all good to go and flaunt your beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you do neutral makeup?

A neutral makeup look involves the full and proper application of a primer, foundation, and concealer. You can do full eye and lip makeup as well for defined features. But, make sure to pick neutral shades that are close to your skin tone.

How can I look pretty in 5 minutes without makeup?

The secret to a quick, flawless, radiant, and minimal makeup look is an extensive and consistent skincare routine that is suitable for your skin type. As long as you practice cleansing, exfoliating, and hydration, your face will have a natural glow. Before stepping out, all you need is a tinted moisturizer, lip balm, and sunscreen.

Why must one prefer makeup in a neutral way?

Neutral makeup is preferred by many as it adds a classy touch to their natural appearance, highlighting all their attractive facial features. It is perfect for formal settings like the office where you can’t wear too much makeup.

Can you wear makeup without foundation?

Yes. If your skin is healthy with a uniform complexion throughout, you do not need foundation in your makeup.

Does blush make you look younger?

A blush is one makeup item that adds a youthful touch to your face. It gives a tinted glow to your cheekbones which is very similar to a flushed appearance that healthy, young skin naturally has.

How can I make my eyes look pretty without mascara?

Begin with having a care routine for your eyes involving night creams, massages, and a lot of rest. The skin around eyes that have been pampered will glow from within. You could use a lash conditioner before bed to add length and volume, and ensure overnight upkeep. For a daytime look, pair dark liners with shimmery eye shadow in neutral shades. For nighttime looks, go bolder with your color choices and smokey effects. You can use a mascara curler to shape your lashes and make your eyes look brighter.

Key Takeaways

A primer before makeup acts as a base for a flawless makeup look.
Blending blush upwards towards the hairline in a circular motion creates a natural-looking hue.
A bronzer helps you contour and add definition after applying the base color.
Curling and applying mascara can elevate your eye makeup and give it a natural look.
A lip balm can be used before applying the lipstick to ensure hydration and a smooth application.

Master how to perfect your makeup look in a few easy steps. Check this easy video tutorial to look flawless in no time with makeup that looks professionally done.

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