
The ‘Barely There’ Makeup Trend for 2023

Sexy & Simple: Embrace a Natural Look with These Exciting Makeup Trends
As we get a better flavor for prevailing beauty trends in 2023, we find ourselves drawn to the less-is-more ideology, especially when it comes to makeup. The latest trend to hit the beauty world is a delicious blend of ’90s nostalgia coupled with a fresh, minimalist approach, all wrapped up in a palette of soft neutrals and playful accents. Let’s explore the makeup trends that define this aesthetic.

’90s Inspired Brown Colors and Neutrals are Back in Big Way
A throwback to the ’90s with bold grunge styles is updated with sophisticated simplicity. The two worlds collide in 2023 as we welcome back smudged, subtly smokey-black eyeliner and eyeshadow, paired with chocolate and mid-tone brown lip liners. Rather than bold, fully filled lips of the past, we’re seeing these liners peeking out beneath layers of sheer, glass-like lip glosses, adding depth without overpowering the natural beauty of your lips. These tones add warmth to your face while keeping the overall look understated and chic.
Softer Contours Underneath Low to Medium Coverage Foundations
The sharp contour trend is softening in 2023, as softer contours under low to medium-coverage foundations take center stage. This trend emphasizes the importance of enhancing your natural facial structure instead of altering it, creating a more realistic, fresh-faced appearance. The key here is blending. Use a soft brush to feather out your contour lines, blending upwards to lift the face and create a seamless transition between your contour, foundation, and natural skin.

A Focus on Daily Skincare Prep to Get Your Face Ready for Makeup
Before an artist begins to paint their masterpiece, they prime their canvas. The same goes for your makeup routine. The focus is on prepping your skin for makeup. Hydrating serums, smoothing primers, and nourishing moisturizers form the foundation of any good makeup look in 2023. This skincare-forward approach ensures your makeup sits beautifully on your skin and extends the life of your look. It also emphasizes the importance of a radiant and healthy complexion, which is the perfect complement to the ‘barely there’ makeup trend.
Statement Eyes with a Pop of Color or a Bold Red Lip
The understated tones of the ‘barely there’ look create the perfect opportunity for a burst of color. Think Taylor Swift’s bold red lips or Lady Gaga’s artful winged eyes. For those seeking a little adventure, statement eyes are the perfect way to inject some vibrancy into your look, while a bold lip says I have arrived. For a softer look, try using a bright, bold eyeshadow with a little water on the brush to line your eyes and add an unexpected pop of color. If the eyes aren’t your preferred stage for a splash of color, opt for a bold, cold red lip, gently patting off any excess product. It’s a classic yet striking choice that pairs beautifully with the subdued tones of your foundation and contours.

As we step into the future of makeup, we’re reminded of the beauty of simplicity. The ‘barely there’ makeup trend of 2023 encourages us to embrace our natural beauty and highlights the importance of skin health in our daily routines. As we venture further into the year, remember to have fun, experiment with these trends, and above all, make sure your makeup routine is something that brings you joy.
Ethereal Glow: The Return of the Highlighter with a Twist
One more exciting trend on the horizon – the return of the highlighter, but with a fresh, modern twist. Gone are the days of intense, blinding highlights. In 2023, the spotlight is on an ethereal, dewy glow that creates a youthful and fresh look. It’s all about subtle radiance that gives the illusion of naturally glowing skin.
Innovations in beauty have given rise to new liquid and cream highlighters that blend effortlessly into the skin, providing a shimmer-free glow. Many of these products also incorporate skincare benefits such as hydration and antioxidants, aligning perfectly with the trend of makeup-meets-skincare.

Apply these highlighters to the high points of your face — the cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid’s bow — and blend gently. You can also mix a little with your foundation for an all-over luminous effect.
This trend encourages creativity and individuality, allowing you to express yourself and your natural beauty in a fun, contemporary way. Plus, with the added skincare benefits, you can glow and nourish your skin simultaneously.
So get ready to let your natural beauty shine, and remember less is more.