Minimalist makeup is more than just cleaning out your makeup collection. In fact, the term “minimal” might inspire you to go through your stash of lipsticks, lip liners, foundations, mascaras, etc. Then, toss out all the ones that you do not use. But “minimalist makeup” is an entire look in itself. It strikes a balance between enhancing your natural beauty and having fun doing it.
If you want to go for a minimal makeup look, or even if you only do it occasionally, you are in the right place. Here are some tips for a minimalist face, eye makeup, and lip color. These minimalist makeup tips will leave you looking fabulous and save you lots of time.
What Is Minimalist Makeup?
To put it simply, it calls for a versatile approach to makeup application. In one sense, you are reducing the number of products you use. Therefore, you decrease the clutter and keep the products on your vanity minimal. But minimalist makeup also calls for a hassle-free approach. We can all agree that there is something liberating about waking up without going through every step. So instead, you select a few products like multiuse formulas and go with the flow.
Though you might confuse minimalist makeup with “no-makeup makeup,” the two are very different. “No-makeup makeup” is still pretty detailed, even though it is generally considered an effortless glow. However, it takes time and skill to truly master. The key is to focus on getting all of these intricate details correct. While with minimal makeup, it is more of a simple “apply and go” process.
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The Best Tips to Get the Look
Minimalist makeup is not about hiding the fact that you are wearing it. Many of the best minimalist looks feature pops of bright color and intricate eyeliner patterns. So, if you want to know more, here are a few rules of thumb to go by:
1. Choose a particular feature to enhance.
Choose one particular feature of your face that you want to enhance: skin, eyes, lips, brows, etc. You can still achieve a high-impact look even if you choose to go minimalistic. The key is to keep it simple with one focal point.
Negative space eyeliner can still appear minimal in the right setting. This pen, for example, makes it easy for you to create a negative space eyeliner look. However, if you choose to focus on the eyelids, do it, but leave your cheeks, lips, and eyebrows natural-looking.
2. Use your fingers instead of tools.
One of the principles of minimalist makeup is decreasing the number of products you have in your kit. So, using your fingers to apply your makeup is an easier way to go. Why? You don’t need to clean brushes or sponges, and washing your hands is quicker.
3. Let your skin look natural.
Minimalist makeup is not the time and place for sculpting and contouring. If your chosen focal point is your cheekbones, use a highlighter or a blush to emphasize them. However, do not apply too much product; less is more. A minimalist look is all about applying your makeup with ease and simplicity so that your skin looks natural.
As an extension of the minimalist makeup look, you can always make your concealer work in your favor. Use it where you have the most discoloration. Under your eyes, around your nose, and anywhere else you wish to conceal. Start by applying it to the center of your face. Then, work your way outwards to make the result as subtle and bright as possible. Click here for my fave creamy concealer!
4. Choose one vibrant color.
Minimalist makeup does not mean that you cannot wear color. Quite the contrary! How many eye looks have you seen with beautifully rich shadows or intricate eyeliner designs that still look minimal? Do you know why? They stick to just one shade. If you are going vibrant, pick one hue to highlight one feature.
For instance, you can tap a dramatic, fluorescent color like NYX Professional Makeup Blush onto the apples of your cheeks. Then, use that same color across your lids or dab a little onto the center of your lips. However, if you prefer an iridescent shade, try the Milani Hypnotic Lights Eye Topper. Apply it lightly over your cheekbones for a subtle, ethereal highlight. Bottom line, you can wear bold colors without going overboard.
5. Use multipurpose products.
It is best to stick to one color when you use the same product on your face. I like products that serve more than one purpose. It saves time and maximizes your dollar. It also simplifies your makeup routine by leaving more room in your beauty bag.
For a soft, monochromatic look, gently pat a blush or bronzer onto the eyelids and lips with your fingertips. You can also use lipstick as a blush. To apply the lipstick, tap it onto your cheeks and use your fingers to diffuse the color.
6. Don’t worry about perfection.
Applying your makeup is where minimalist makeup and “no-makeup makeup” differ. With “no-makeup makeup,” you may spend a lot of time in front of the mirror making sure your blush looks fantastic, and your highlight is flawless. On the other hand, minimalist makeup is more of a simple “apply and go” process. Therefore, it should take you less time to do it.
The aim is to achieve the final result of your beauty look as quickly as possible without spending too much time on it. By tapping on the colors, you can create a beautiful look. So even if your liner isn’t perfect, it still gets the job done.
7. Take off your makeup.
Even if you do not wear a lot of makeup, it is still a good idea to remove it before bed. No matter how much makeup you wear, it can mix with the dirt and oils on your face. Therefore, it can clog your pores which can cause breakouts. The bottom line: wash your makeup off before bedtime.
Why Minimal Makeup Is So Popular
It is clear that practical reasons are the driving force behind minimal makeup popularity. Using less makeup can reduce your expenses and time. You do not have to buy a lot of palettes to look good. Keep it simple with one or two essentials for your lips, cheeks, and eyes. If you have a lot of makeup, simplifying your routine down to a few essential products can be liberating.
Makeup is something we enjoy, not something we have to wear. It is not a mask but an empowering tool for boosting self-esteem and bringing joy to people. Instead of a comprehensive regimen, it may only take two or three products to get the desired results. That said, we do not have to abandon glitz and glamour completely. It has its place and time.
Final Thoughts
The minimalist makeup look is relatively simple to achieve with these tips. Essentially, you are using fewer products to enhance your look. That means a clutter-free cosmetic bag and a no-fuss makeup technique. Because of this, the beauty world has embraced a more relaxed and casual look. Additionally, the beauty of wearing less makeup is that it fades a lot more gracefully during the day. However, this does not mean you have to give up all your favorite makeup products. Conversely, you can always rock a glam look whenever you want.
Are you a minimalist makeup enthusiast, and did you find these tips helpful? Feel free to share.
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Thanks for this — I’ll have to try some of these tips and looks out!
Glad you like my blog. Hope it works out for you. Let me know. Thanks!😊
Great tips! I am not much for makeup, but when I do wear it, I like it light and natural. I like the suggestions for multipurposing products.
I think we all go makeup-free sometimes. But, like you, I sometimes like a minimalist look. Thank you for reading this post.😊