CHAPTER III
THE BASE, BASICS, AND BROWS
Primers: Hydrating and blurring primers help create a smooth canvas for makeup application. Silicone-based primers can fill in pores and fine lines.
Foundations: Opt for liquid or cream foundations with a natural or dewy finish. Avoid heavy, matte formulas that can accentuate texture. Apply with a damp sponge or a buffing brush for a seamless blend.
Concealers: Creamy concealers that blend easily are best for a smooth under-eye area.
Setting Products: Use fine-milled setting powders sparingly, focusing on areas that tend to get oily. Setting sprays, especially dewy or hydrating ones, can help melt the makeup together for a smoother finish.
Highlighters: Liquid or cream highlighters applied strategically can add a healthy glow without emphasizing texture.
Trust me, we all want the filtered blurred effect, especially when wearing 10 lbs of makeup. Many will say “I don’t use all the filters”... But it’s 2025 - everyone uses filters, on one app or another.
My goal is to achieve the “filter effect” organically, by
layering a series of creams and powders.
Here’s a few tips on how to achieve the once trendy naturally airbrushed skin:
Balmy Contour: This is in. Subtle, natural enhancement using cream or balm-based contours that sink into the skin.
Focus on seamless blending down the bridge of the nose and across the eye sockets for a natural shadow.
Cream or balm contour sticks with neutral undertones (not too warm or cool).
"Cloud Skin": This trend emphasized a soft-focus, blurred, and hydrated complexion. It's polished yet natural and breathable, focusing on a healthy, plump look rather than heavy coverage.
But today, we’re going to marry that to a more radiant and simplistic finish.
"No-Makeup" Makeup: This minimalist approach remains a favorite, emphasizing flawless skin, subtle highlights, and soft shades for a natural, enhanced look.
Brows trends are ever-so evolving. They’re a large contribtuion to the overall shape & vibe of any look.
Lower-Key Brows: A shift from bold, strong brows to a softer, more natural, and feathery look.
Use powder products instead of pencils for a wispier effect. Clear brow gels to lift the brow hairs are also popular, and complete the airbrushed effect.
If you don’t have a ton of brow hairs to slick - get a brown fine tip pen, and draw those babies manually!
Remember,
LESS IS MORE
Cream contours, concealers, blushes and liquid highlighters blended seamlessly are IMPERATIVE.
Setting powders should be used sparingly and strategically, perhaps only in the T-zone, to maintain the soft focus. But it’s important to know your skin, because your T-zone may be susceptible to oil or product peeling - So you DON’T want to use too much and end up serving cake face.
BY LAUREN MACKEY - MADEBYDLFCE, DLFCE LLC.
MAKEUP 4 THE MODERN DAY DOLL
WWW.MADEBYDLFCE.COM
