5 Easy Steps for Achieving a Nude Makeup Look

Nude makeup looks are in a category all their own. Depending on execution, an all-nude moment can skew minimalist or all-out luxurious, with both approaches achieved through the use of neutral shades thoughtfully applied. From no-makeup makeup to latte looks, nudes encompass a wide breadth of aesthetics.

“A standout nude makeup is a combination of the use of textures and monochromatic nude tones, texture being the key,” says makeup artist Fara Homidi. “Is the skin quality matte all over with just a translucent shine on the eyelids to pop the eyes, or is it about a dewy, healthy, sun-kissed look? Small choices in texture take a nude look to the next level.”

Experts note that the definition (and accessibility) of nude makeup has evolved significantly over the past few decades with the help of new technologies and broadened skin-tone spectrums. “In the past, nude makeup was often associated with a more minimalistic look, focusing on achieving a natural look without much emphasis on contouring or highlighting,” says makeup artist Benjamin Puckey. “However, in recent years, the definition of nude makeup has expanded to include a broader range of shades and techniques. There's now a greater emphasis on customization to suit individual skin tones and features, as well as a focus on achieving a radiant, lit-from-within glow.”

Meet Our Expert

• Fara Homidi is a makeup artist and founder of an eponymous beauty brand.

• Benjamin Puckey is a makeup artist and the global color director at Clé de Peau Beauté.

• Katie Jane Hughes is a makeup artist and the founder of beauty brand KJH.brand.

Add in some major trends on social media—first with the heavy-handed and bold style, now with far more natural looks—and skin-matching makeup is practically ubiquitous, regardless of whether you tend toward the original full-beat interpretation or a barely-there application.

“Nude makeup is the best way to enhance your natural beauty, but it's not about strict rules,” says Puckey. “Feel free to experiment with different shades and techniques to discover what works best for you. Ultimately, it's all about enjoying the process and celebrating your unique features.” Makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes doubles down on that notion, adding that nude doesn’t need to be synonymous with monochromatic. “I think it's important to figure out what nude makeup look is for you, but if you love color, try it with a red lip, or do a nude brown eye, or do a more subtle cheek with brown mascara to edge your way into the trend as opposed to trying it entirely,” she says. Again, there are no rules.

Here are five easy (and easily individualized) steps to achieve the ultimate nude makeup look.

Step One: Create a Flawless Base

While not all nude makeup moments are minimal by nature, starting with well-tended skin allows your chosen products to perform — and provides an opportunity for your natural skin to show through, too. “Prepping skin is huge for any nude look, since skin is the focus,” says Homidi. “Currently, I’m using Augustinus Bader’s The Rich Cream, and it is great under makeup and gives a beautiful glow without having too much slip or feeling oily.” Puckey says. “It's about creating a flawless complexion with subtle enhancements that allow your best features to shine without overpowering them.”

Step Two: Choose Your Coverage

When it comes to complexion coverage, your texture defines your look. “Here is where I think there are some skin-finish choices: matte, natural matte, dewy, glass skin, et cetera,” says Homidi. Deciding what aesthetic you’re after will dictate your finish, with radiance and shimmer finishes for sun-kissed, sheer for minimalist, and matte to go glam. “Go in with the complexion product of choice, starting in the center of the face and moving outwards, only perfecting areas that need it,” Homidi advises. Once you choose the liquid foundation that works best for you — or best for your nude look of the day — the rest of the detailing will become a touch more clear.

Step Three: Highlight and Contour

Nude makeup is all about creating dimension. Once your base is moisturized, protected, and perfected, it’s time to add in angles. “Finish off any nude look with a hint of structure, whether that’s through contour or bronzer,” says Homidi. Puckey notes that it’s all about using subtle contrast to enhance your existing features, allowing your natural beauty to shine: “I love the Westman Atelier Face Trace Contour Stick, which has shades to naturally contour as well as warm up the complexion,” he says. Once you’ve drawn and blended your contour, go in with your preferred highlighter to deepen desired shadows while pulling light to areas like the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, and the cupid’s bow in order to further define your face’s given sculpture.

Step Four: Define the Eyes

When punctuating a nude makeup look, eye makeup demands depth and subtle intensity. “Define the eyes by applying neutral eyeshadows in shades like taupe, beige, and soft brown,” says Puckey, who suggests brushing the crease in a slightly darker shade while highlighting the inner corners with a shimmery champagne. Taupes and tawny caramels, chocolate and cocoa brows, and alabaster nudes provide a pretty palette — it all depends on your skin tone. As for the framing, Puckey recommends keeping things simple while delivering drama. “Focus on tight-lining for eyeliner, applying it close to the lashes and along the upper waterline to create the illusion of fuller lashes.” Finish with a coat (or several) of mascara — again, nude need not mean minimal.

Step Five: Paint Your Pout

Whether or not you favor a full face of nude, a nude lip is always an aspirational choice. Select a nude lipstick in your preferred finish (matte, high-gloss, or shimmer) that features undertones that play well with your coloring. While Homidi suggests lining your lips with a coordinated pencil, the better to play up your pout, lipstick worn alone works just as well. And Hughes notes that classic colors are welcome (so long as they play well with your palette), as is a barely-there balm.

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