A Step-by-Step Guide: How To Have A Natural Clean Makeup Look?

In recent years, the trend of clean girl makeup has become very popular, including among famous celebrities. So, what is a clean makeup look and why do so many people love it? And how to do this clean makeup look in the easiest way? It's simple! Let's find out the step-by-step on how to do a clean makeup look with Japan With Love as follows! 

1. What is the "Clean Makeup Look"?

A clean makeup look is a style of makeup that emphasizes natural beauty and aims to achieve a flawless complexion without appearing heavy or overly made-up. This makeup trend focuses on enhancing one's features while keeping the overall look fresh and minimalistic, which seems quite similar to the "no-makeup makeup" style as J-Beauty.

Jennie is usually seen with clean makeup look

In addition to the "no-makeup makeup" trend, another factor that contributes to the popularity of this clean makeup look is hairstyle. You can easily spot a girl following this clean makeup look style as she has her hair parted in the middle, tightly slicked back and neatly tied at the back. 

This hairstyle is considered to be a signature when it comes to clean makeup look 

However, those who embrace the clean makeup look will not stick to just one hairstyle, but will be flexible and change it based on their preferences and style, as long as their hair remains slick and neat.

2. How To Do A Clean Makeup Look?

Achieving a natural clean makeup look does not mean using fewer products or taking shorter steps. Rather, it involves opting for lighter coverage and not fussing over the makeup look. Here are some simple steps to help you achieve an easy clean makeup look.

2.1. Skincare 

As the foundation of this clean makeup look is well-cared-for skin, we would start with double-cleansing as the first step.

Begin your skincare routine by using makeup remover that matches your skin type to thoroughly remove all the pore-clogging buildup from your skin. Afterward, select a gentle facial cleanser and apply enough to your damp face and neck. Gently massage the cleanser into your skin using circular motions, paying close attention to areas prone to oiliness or makeup buildup, such as the T-zone.

Wash your face gently with a suitable cleanser

Remember to rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring no residue remains. After cleansing, avoid rubbing your face with a towel as this can be harsh on the skin. Instead, pat your face and neck gently with a clean, soft towel to absorb excess moisture.

Following is moisturizing, as it is essential to lock in moisture, creating a smooth and hydrated base for makeup application. Select a moisturizer that suits your skin type and apply it evenly to your face and neck. And, it is recommended that you consider using a moisturizer with built-in SPF protection. Give your moisturizer a few minutes to fully absorb into your skin before moving on to the next step.

2.2. Sunscreen

Sunscreen not only protects your skin from harmful UV rays, but also safeguards your skin's health, as well as creates a smooth base for makeup application, to ensure that you can have the best clean makeup look. Therefore, the importance of sunscreen in your clean makeup routine cannot be overstated.

Sunscreen acts as a protective barrier against harmful UV rays, as well as serves as a primer

Start by selecting a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Look for one that's designed for the face and is suitable for your skin type - whether it's sensitive, oily, dry, or combination. Squeeze a sufficient amount of sunscreen onto your fingertips, dot the sunscreen onto different areas of your face and neck. Remember to focus on the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and neck.

2.3. Primer 

A primer is important because it acts as a base for your makeup, creating a smooth and even canvas. It fills in fine lines, blurs imperfections, and minimizes the appearance of pores, giving your skin a refined texture.

Because some primers come in various shades to address specific skin concerns, so choose the one that suits you most. Then, dispense a small, pea-sized amount of primer onto your fingertips. Focus on areas where you want to smooth out texture or prolong makeup wear, such as the T-zone, cheeks, and chin. Plus, pay attention to areas with enlarged pores or fine lines, ensuring they're adequately covered. For an extra smooth finish, you can use a makeup sponge or brush to help distribute the primer evenly. Even though using a primer may seem like an additional step, it's a small effort that yields significant results in achieving a natural, clean makeup look.

2.4. Light Coverage Base 

2.4.1. Foundation

For a clean makeup look, a foundation that matches your skin tone with light coverage and a glowing finish is the ideal choice. It allows your skin's natural texture and beauty to shine through. It evens out minor imperfections without masking your skin's characteristics.

Apply a thin layer of foundation on the face to have a natural and light base

When applying your foundation, use a beauty sponge or brush for an even and natural finish. However, this step is not really necessary with a clean makeup look, as it's a minimalist look. Therefore, you choose the second option, which is the following. Remember that the goal is to enhance your natural beauty while achieving a clean, fresh makeup look.

2.4.2. Concealer

If you want to skip foundation but still want to do an easy clean makeup look, concealer is a perfect option. It can cover blemishes and redness, giving your skin a flawless appearance while still looking natural. You can use a small concealer brush or your fingertip to gently dab and blend the product into areas with imperfections.

Use a creamy concealer to cover some imperfections on your face and brighten your eyes area

In addition to concealing imperfections, concealer can brighten your under-eyes. This will cover your dark circles and make your eyes appear more refreshed. You can also use concealer to highlight the high points of your face, such as the bridge of your nose, the center of your forehead, and your chin. This adds dimension and brightness to your overall look, but still keeps your makeup natural and glowy. 

2.5. Blushing and Highlighter

It's time to add a touch of color to your cheeks and enhance your facial structure.

To maintain a clean and natural aesthetic, opt for a blush shade that mimics a healthy flush. Soft pinks, peaches, and corals work well for most skin tones. Remember to choose a blush with a matte finish rather than one with excessive shimmer. Matte blushes create a more subtle effect that aligns with a clean makeup look.

A little blush and highlighter would help you to have a glowy finish  

Moreover, you can opt for a highlighter with a subtle shimmer, preferably in a champagne or pearl shade, and apply the highlighter to the high points of your face. This includes the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid's bow. These areas catch the light naturally.

This step will help enhance your overall clean makeup look without overwhelming your features, as well as achieve a soft, radiant finish.

2.6. Natural Eye Makeup and Mascara 

Eyes are often the focal point of a natural clean makeup look, and we would begin this step with your eyebrows. 

Always start by brushing your eyebrows upward using a clean spoolie brush. This helps you see the natural shape and identify any areas that need filling. Use an eyebrow pencil or powder that matches your hair color. Lightly mimic the appearance of individual hairs, and then fill in these areas with light strokes.

Hailey Bieber uses neutral eyeshadow shade, applies mascara, and brushes her eyebrows upward for her clean girl eye makeup

Next, opt for neutral eyeshadow shades like beige, taupe, or soft brown. These colors enhance your eyes without overpowering your overall clean look. For a clean look, you can also use a fine eyeliner brush or pencil to create a thin line along your upper lash line. Keep it close to the lashes for definition without a heavy appearance.

Finally, for this step, apply mascara. Begin by wiggling the mascara wand at the base of your lashes. This ensures that the mascara coats every lash from root to tip. If you notice any clumps, use a clean mascara comb or spoolie to separate your lashes and remove excess product, not create clumps or heavy build-up.

2.7. Light Lip Color

While the focus of a clean makeup look is often on the eyes and complexion, don't forget to add some soft and natural lip color. 

Opt for nude or natural lip shades that closely resemble your own lip color. These shades enhance your lips without overpowering the overall look. Additionally, you can add a clear lip gloss to the center of your lips for a natural radiance. But be mindful not to overdo it, as the goal is to maintain a natural appearance.

Achieving glossy light-tinted lips completes your clean makeup look

On the other hand, you can simply use a tinted lip balm. Not only does it hydrate your lips and make them look healthy and youthful, but it also adds a touch of light color.

2.8. Setting Spray

To keep your makeup looking natural and long-lasting, avoid using powders. This is because powder formulas tend to settle into fine lines and texture, giving your makeup an artificial appearance rather than a natural look. Therefore, to ensure your makeup stays in place, use a setting mist after completing your makeup. And this is the last step in the step-by-step guide on how to achieve a clean makeup look.

A clean makeup look is not about covering up; it is about enhancing your natural beauty. We hope this guide can help you feel more confident and happy with your appearance. Remember, the beauty of the natural clean makeup look lies in its versatility. Feel free to personalize and experiment with these steps to suit your unique style. For more beauty tips, don’t forget to drop by Japan With Love blogs!