Okay, let’s admit it. Going makeup-free is a rare occasion for most of us. But we also prefer not to look like we’ve spent hours preening in front of the mirror. So how on earth can we look like we’re not wearing oodles of makeup and yet look rosy cheeked and wide awake? The simple answer: knowing how to choose the right ‘nude’ makeup. All you need are a few key products and the right technique. Fresh, natural makeup is one of those timeless trends that’s back with a bang thanks to the shift towards minimalist beauty and lifestyle in general. While I love my metallic eye shadows and popping bright lip colors, a nude look feels classic yet refreshing! So here are my top picks for creating a nude look for Indian complexions.
Brown Eye Liner: I’m a big fan of dark brown liners and prefer using brown instead of black for a softer look. I love gel liners because they stay on really well in the heat and humidity. L'Oreal Paris Super Liner Gel Intenza 36H in Chic Brown is an excellent pick for this look.
Defining Mascara: While I love a full lash look, bare faced beauty calls for softer definition. The Lakme Eyeconic Curling Mascara is great for nude makeup days since it defines and darkens without drawing too much attention to the lashes.
Fuller Brows: Skip the fuss with eye shadow and take a minute instead to work on your brows! A fuller brow not only helps frame the face but gives a more youthful look as well. The Natio Brow Kit has an excellent selection of three shades to help perfect your brows.
Light Coverage Base: A light, natural looking base that evens out the skin is the key to perfecting skin for a nude look. You need something that doesn’t leave a heavy, cakey layer on the face. The L'Oreal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder is a lightweight liquid-to-powder foundation that feels really light and silky on the skin. It can be easily applied with fingers and blends into skin to even out imperfections without adding too much coverage.
Airy Foundation: The Za Perfect Fit Liquid Foundation is a water-based foundation that gives light coverage while adding subtle luminosity to the skin. It’s perfect if you need a little extra coverage to cover blemishes.
Neutral Blush: A soft earth toned blush adds the perfect touch of warmth to Indian complexions. You could also opt for a subtle peach tone to brighten up the face. My top picks are Colorbar Cheekillusion Blush New in Earthy Touch and Maybelline Cheeky Glow Blush in Creamy Cinnamon.
When it comes to lipsticks, it’s not just the right color but the right application that matters too. I like to use a brush or my fingers to pat the color on when I want a more natural look. A light creamy stain evens out discolorations and adds just enough color to liven up the face without looking obvious. Here are my top lipstick picks for all skin tones.
Fair Skin: Lakme 9 To 5 Matte Lip Color in Toffee Nexus
Medium/Wheatish skin: L'Oreal Paris Color Riche Moist Matte Lipstick in Maple Mocha
Dusky Skin: Maybelline Color Show Lipstick in Choco Latte
By Ankita Chaturvedi, beauty blogger and author of Corallista.com, a one stop destination for beauty reviews, looks and tutorials.
