The "no makeup" makeup look is the perfect way to combat the summer heat. Even if the heat wave has broken in New York City, it does not appear that the humidity intends on going anywhere any time soon. There is no point in loading up on heavy makeup when it will wear off before the middle of the day.
So, how do you look like you are not wearing makeup when you are actually wearing it? The key is to accentuate certain aspects of your face in the most minimalist way possible. Sounds easy enough right?
Face
Go for a light application of foundation and concealer. You might even opt for tinted moisturizer or BB cream. Since you are trying to look like you are not really wearing makeup at all, you do not want to be too heavy-handed as you apply. Do not go past one or two thin layer(s) of foundation and concealer.It should be just enough to cover blemishes and even out your skin tone.
This summer I have been using Mineral Fusion Liquid Foundation and Maybelline Fit Me! concealer. To ensure that my foundation is light I actually mix in a dime size amount of Neutrogena Oil Free Moisture or Prai Beauty 24k Precious Oil Drops.
Eyes
For your eyes, all you need to focus on is your lashes and your brows. Anything else will defeat the purpose of the no makeup look. Apply one coat of mascara. It should be just enough to make your eyes pop, but not enough to make it obvious that you are wearing it. Unlike everything else, you can go as dramatic as you would like on the brows. Brows frame your face so they are probably the most essential part of a "no makeup" makeup look.
My go to brow product for the past couple of years has been Anastastia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade. It has the perfect consistency for creating a natural full brow (especially if you have thin brows). For mascara I'm less picky, but I have been obsessed with Maybelline Push Up Drama.
Cheeks
To create a dewy natural look, your cheeks are very important. Use a cream based blush to create a natural rosy glow. Then apply a small amount of a liquid illuminator to the high points of your cheekbones. You can blend it out with your fingers or a beauty blender. Then swipe on a bit of a powder highlighter in the same place for the ultimate glow.
For blush I have been using Mineral Fusion 3-in-1 Color Stick. Then I use Prai Beauty 24k Gold Illuminator with Becca Cosmetics Champagne Pop highlighter over it. It is the ideal radiant finish for this look.
Lips
For your lips, you use either a nude/pink colored lipstick or just wear lip balm. Bold lip colors are the wrong way to go for this look. Keep it simple.
I usually just throw on some Smith's Rosebud Salve and call it a day. During the hot summer days it is especially great. Your lips stay hydrated and it gives them a natural sheen.