There’s a Specific Equation for Achieving Natural-Looking Makeup—6 Techniques Used by Professional Artists to Perfect the Formula.

      Whether you're experimenting with natural-looking makeup to embrace the fresh and uncomplicated styles inspired by the warmer months or looking to simplify your beauty routine in the latter part of the year, it's clear that this approach is one of the most adaptable methods for makeup application. As a beauty editor, I can confidently say that I love finding new ways to enhance my makeup routine without the fear of a trend fading right after I invest in the necessary products. Even before its official designation, I was drawn to timeless makeup styles, making it a natural choice to explore. If you're eager to perfect natural-looking makeup like I am, read on for six key expert-approved tips and tricks, and then check out my favorite recent interpretations of this style by makeup artists and celebrity beauty enthusiasts.

      Natural-looking makeup enhances your inherent face shape and features through what are generally regarded as subtle application techniques, product shades, and textures. Often described as "no makeup" makeup in media, these timeless and versatile looks are cherished for their simplicity. Do you remember the "clean girl" beauty trend that took social media by storm last year? This easily replicable trend celebrated natural-looking makeup while emphasizing lifestyle aesthetics.

      Makeup artist Michelle Waldron emphasizes that achieving natural-looking makeup starts with excellent skincare. "A hydrated canvas allows sheer and glowy products to blend seamlessly," she explains. To add radiance and color to the skin, she suggests using Roxanne Rizzo Bronze Glow Bronzing Mist ($40) for an even, sun-kissed effect. Omayma Ramzy, a makeup artist, esthetician, and founder of Omayma Skin, shares a similar sentiment. "When your skin is genuinely nourished, you'll wake up halfway there without needing to apply any products," she adds.

      Beauty expert Jaleesa Jaikaran advises concentrating on strategic placement instead of slathering product everywhere. For instance, when starting your makeup from the center of the face, apply concealer under the eyes to cover any discolorations around the mouth and nose, promoting an even complexion. Before using any makeup, Jaikaran likes to prep her skin with a hydrating spray such as D'Alba White Truffle First Spray Serum ($18) and a nourishing glazing milk like Byoma's Hydrating Milky Toner ($12). "The goal is to utilize lightweight formulas that blend into the skin without making it overly shiny," she notes. "I usually aim for a glowy or softly matte finish."

      How can I achieve natural-looking makeup? Before applying makeup, Ramzy's skincare regimen includes using the Omayma Skin Active Rejuvenation Oasis Serum ($124) to boost luminosity after cleansing, followed by locking in moisture with The Bedouin Elixir Facial Oil ($112). "By the time I'm done, my skin has this lit-from-within quality that's hard to replicate with makeup alone," she clarifies. For her natural-looking makeup method, she maintains an architectural and minimal approach by utilizing the Fara Homidi Essential Face Compact ($88) and layering its Shine Baume and Smooth Veil to create a "raw and real" skin appearance.

      For any skin concerns needing more attention, like dark circles or uneven tones, Ramzy relies on the Hourglass Airbrush Concealer ($20). "It's the one concealer I trust completely. It’s buildable without looking cakey and, on well-prepped skin, it blends seamlessly," she remarks. For an effortless, just-bitten lip look, Ramzy favors Finding Ferdinand's Delicious Balm ($28). "It appears quite pigmented in the tube, but it transforms into a sheer, bitten berry wash upon contact with your lips, making you look vibrant and healthy without appearing overly done," she explains. To finish the natural-looking makeup, she applies a single layer of mascara.

      What’s the best way to apply my products? While natural-looking makeup may seem simple and effortless at first glance, makeup artists suggest that there are steps you can take to guarantee flawless application. Ramzy begins her routine with gua sha or a facial massage to lift, sculpt, and relieve any facial congestion, spending about 30 seconds on each area while moving upwards and outwards. Her most significant tip for a skincare routine? Warm your facial oil by pressing your palms together before applying serum.

      For this makeup style, Ramzy suggests using a limited number of products through layering instead of many at once and underscores the impact the right lip combination can have on enhancing a minimalist beauty aesthetic. "Finding Ferdinand’s Delicious Balm is sheer enough that it doesn’t compete with your skin, yet it gives your lips that berry-stained, just-bitten look that makes the entire face appear intentional," Ramzy notes. "It’s the sort of product that prompts people to wonder if you're wearing anything at all—and that's the highest compliment for a no-makeup look."

      Jaikaran also reminds me of the significance of smart layering and the strategic placement of specific products. "Concealers or color