Charles Lu
The no-makeup makeup defines the effortless confidence of now.
Buoyed by a growing desire for “skinimalism,” we find ourselves becoming more cognizant of the state of our complexions and for makeup that’s flattering, albeit almost undetectable. These days, it’s all about having great skin as a base, accented by strategic placements of contour and color that create that naturally radiant look we all desire.
For makeup, the canvas is our face. Like art, every person is unique and there’s no one way, or a single holy grail product to get that lit-from-within glow. While beauty has evolved to a point where we are now embracing our authentic selves, there’s also a growing understanding that getting that natural, effortless look takes significant effort.
For starters, dermatologist Dr. Golda Soller of Avignon Clinic advises one to always stay hydrated and be consistent with a basic routine of a gentle cleanser, sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and a moisturizer. “From there you can build your regimen based on your skin needs, she elaborates, of which an expert can give one tailored advice. It also pays to start early with skincare, as prevention is key.
Models Andriana, Jeska, and Romarie experienced personal treatments recommended by dermatologists to get camera ready skin for this editorial. From acne to fine lines, rejuvenation, and hydration, low-effort and noninvasive treatments like facials, light therapy treatments, and microneedling will have you sorted.
Getting pampered every so often with a facial can be game-changing—delivering noticeable results with minimal commitment and no downtime. One such treatment is Avignon Clinic’s Synergy Hydrating Facial. This uses Aqua technology to exfoliate dead skin cells and extract microcomedones, followed by an infusion of specialized solutions tailored to a patient’s skin, like hyaluronic acid for model Andriana, who has normal to dry skin.
The treatment aims to renew the skin and improve its texture, and give the complexion a fresh-faced radiance. Her pampering session was then followed by the Exilis Ultra 360 treatment, which uses radiofrequency energy and ultrasound to promote collagen remodeling and stimulate the lysis of fat, helping give her the more contoured jawline she desired.
For Jeska, the Tornado Facial at Aivee Clinic prepared her skin for the photo shoot. Her treatment began with a Visia skin assessment, a specialized machine that captured her image and analyzed her skin for spots, wrinkles, texture, pores, and the like. Her results were then interpreted by a dermatologist who gave her a thorough consultation to revamp her routine.
Based on the assessment, a luxurious session of cleansing, facial massage, a bit of microdermabrasion with a serum infusion, followed by a relaxing mask, and a light treatment that addressed inflammation and acne were recommended. This all-in-one rejuvenation can get your skin radiant, especially for a big event or shoot but their dermatologists can also develop a more intensive treatment regimen for better long-term results.
For those with more sensitive skin like model Romarie, Belo Medical Group’s dermatologist recommended the Botanical Cleansing Facial, an all-natural exfoliating scrub that gently removes skin impurities and smoothens skin texture.
Barely There
With a base of great skin, makeup then assumes the role of enhancing one’s features, as opposed to covering it all up. Such a liberated approach allows for a more streamlined routine that is flattering, chic, and timesaving. And to take our skin-loving routine a step further is a slew of makeup-skincare hybrids that deliver amazing color and natural coverage, with numerous nourishing benefits.
The no-makeup makeup look calls for cosmetics applied so sparingly that skin looks and feels like skin. Barely undetectable, it is interpreted for day with luminosity beginning with an almost translucent application of foundation for a dewy base.
Get the look with Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer, which blurs imperfections, has SPF 30, and improves skin over time with macadamia and kukui seed oils, and tamarind extract. For a dewy light buildable coverage, MAC’s Lightful C3 Silk Powder Foundation infused with a combination of lightful radiance booster, vitamin C, and coral grass to improve the skin’s complexion does the trick.
The next step is to achieve that natural radiance. There’s Clé de Peau Beauté Luminizing Face Enhancer for an almost sculpted effect but one with Botticelli-like softness. It gives cheeks an iridescent, opaline glow, while moisturizing skin with infusions of argan oil. Then for that sun-kissed glow, add a few drops of Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops to any serum, oil or moisturizer for dreamy summer skin and a dose of a concentrated mix of antioxidants.
For makeup artist Juan Sarte III, the modern iterations of this look are more about “mimicking the ideal qualities of a natural beautiful face with the use of makeup—the moisturized complexion with a flush of blush, defined eyes, and just-bitten moist lips.” He also loves enhancing the eyes with “a flick of black eyeliner and softly smudged eyeshadow,” and prefers liquid and cream products that melt and disappear into the skin.
Sarte recommends a light concealer, and foundation in your exact shade, applied softly and blended seamlessly for a flawless finish. Take your pick from Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate Soft Radiance Foundation SPF 50, with its light diffusing powders creates a radiant complexion and hydrates the skin with hyaluronic acid and a trio of natural oils or Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Lightweight Foundation with its breathable and buildable coverage lasts all day and has good-for-you ingredients like wild thyme extract which has antioxidant benefits, and protective polymers that keep pollution from adhering to skin.
To transition from the carefree aesthetic of day to the more dramatic look of night, leave a veil of light on your skin with Hermès Poudre d’Orfevre and dab Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer to swathe color onto cheeks. For eyes, we are drawn to the casual appeal of Rare Beauty’s Stay Vulnerable Liquid Eyeshadow, which goes on velvety-smooth before drying into a powder, and gives lids a sheer, flushed glow.
Poudre D’orfevre
Liquid Blush
This article was originally published in Vogue Philippines’ November 2022 issue. Subscribe here.
Photography: Charles Lu, Beauty Editor: Joyce Oreña, Makeup: Juan Sarte III, Hair: Cherry Reyes and TONI&GUY team, Model: Andriana Coronel, Jeska Entanglemeant, Romarie Fonseca, Art Director: Jann Pascua, Stylist: Mano Gonzales, Producer: Anz Hizon, Production Assistant: Bianca Zaragoza, Photographer’s Assistant and Retoucher: Caci Juchat, Stylist’s Assistant: Clarisse Furio.
