Matte makeup creates a flawless appearance that looks airbrushed and hides blemishes. This makeup helps to reduce shine and makes your complexion look gorgeous while enhancing your skin tone. To improve your makeup routine, embrace one or all of the following matte makeup styles.
The Five Most Universally-Flattering Matte Makeup Looks
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1. Matte Blush
Matte Makeup: Matte Blush on Charlize Theron
Matte blush has always been a popular matte makeup trend thanks to the rich color it provides without being overly dramatic. Dust your blush--try
Bobbi Brown Blush, $28--on the apples of the cheeks instead of on your cheekbones and blend it into the skin to add a natural touch of color to your facial features. Blend the product in with a dense brush to create a flush look that will look great with matte skin.
2. Matte Eye Shadow
Matte Makeup: Matte Eye Shadow on Emma Watson
Matte eye shadow looks best with the use of earth tones. Apply matte eye shadow, such as
E.L.F. Mad for Matte, $10, by choosing a color that is one shade lighter than your skin tone and applying it to the base of your eyelid. Next, apply a shadow that is two shades darker to the crease of your eyelid. Use a fluffy blush to blend the product in and to create a smoky matte makeup look that is also subtle.
3. Matte Lips
Matte Makeup: Matte Lips on Heidi Klum
Matte lips are an especially popular matte makeup look during fall and winter. Before applying matte lipstick, it's a good idea to exfoliate the lips with a dry toothbrush to remove dead skin. Then, apply lip balm and allow it to soak in. Choose a deep lipstick color that is bold and dramatic, like
Too Faced La Matte in Rebel Heart, $22. Use a setting spray to keep the color in place after it's applied to prevent it from wearing off or smudging throughout the day.
4. Matte Skin
Matte Makeup: Matte Skin on Lily Collins
Matte skin is ideal for creating a flawless finish on the complexion, resulting in makeup that looks like it was applied by a professional. Start by using a facial primer on the skin to avoid shine caused by oil or sweat. Next, apply a foundation that has oil-control properties.
L'Oréal Paris Magic Nude Liquid Powder, $13, is a great option. Go a step further by applying a matte makeup powder, such as
Clinique Stay-Matte Sheer Pressed Powder, $25, on top of the foundation to complete the matte look. Use a microfinish powder to set the makeup and reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores.
Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder, $35, is a favorite among beauty gurus.
5. Matte Skin With Setting Powder
Matte Makeup: Matte Skin on Scarlett Johansson
The right setting powder can provide sheer coverage to help you achieve a natural-looking matte finish. For best results, go with a lightweight, translucent powder like
Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder, $38, and apply it while your foundation is still wet. Use a powder puff or flat makeup brush to apply it, and don't be afraid to press this matte makeup firmly into your skin.