Sometimes going barefaced can feel a little daunting – we over-analyse our so-called “imperfections” with microscopic detail; a pimple here, a wrinkle or dimple there. That's why minimalist makeup is a saving grace for days when you want your skin to see the light but don’t quite feel like baring all.

Plus, the world would be a little less fun if we didn't have make-up to experiment with but said experimentation doesn’t have to be bold and appearance-altering. With the right products, you can achieve the desired “no makeup” makeup in a few simple steps, to slim down your morning routine and celebrate the true you!

Here the Because team have dug into the depths of their make-up bags and pulled out the best products for ushering natural beauty.

Issamaya Dazzle Up Highlighter

Issamaya’s loud edit of beauty products (think penis-shaped lipsticks, kaleidoscopic pigments and black vinyl lipglosses) are not renowned for their discrete everyday wearability. Yet, this product is something I find myself reaching for as part of my daily routine. The DAZZLE UP highlighter stick blends to create an effortless pearlescence. Swipe it onto your cheekbones, above your cupid’s bow, or anywhere else for a healthy, dewy sheen – with or without anything else.

RevitaLash Advanced Serum

A hero product in restoration. For days when your lashes need a break, the RevitaLash Advanced is an eyelash serum that enhances the look of lashes and protects against breakage while improving strength, flexibility and health. A must-have for out-of-office moments.

MAC Full Lash Curler

I’d be lost without my lash curler. Not a day goes by when I don’t start my routine with it. With or without mascara my trusted curler gives my eyes much-needed oomph. If you haven't used one before – I urge you to!

Benefit Benetint Rose Tinted Lip & Cheek Stain

Benefit’s Benetint is perhaps the ultimate nostalgic product when it comes to “natural” beauty. Beloved by every teen, there's a reason this product has stuck around for so go damn long – it works! Aside from cheek and lip application, I’ve recently been applying the loose tint over the bridge of my nose for added rosiness.

Freck Faux Freckle Cosmetics Neutral

We’ve all seen the freckle trend on TikTok and if not we’ve seen Gen-Z’s out and about rocking it. So, whether you're blessed with freckles that you want to accentuate, or you're looking to create your own freckle constellation, Freck has got you covered.

Rimmel London Exaggerate Automatic Lip Liner Addiction

We’ve tried and tested this lip liner on multiple members of the Because team and it’s surprisingly a perfect match for our varying natural lip colours. Its silky formula glides on without getting flaky or dry to create an exaggerated (but natural) plumping effect.

Merit Beauty The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick

When cult clean beauty brand, Merit, finally came to the UK back in February – after we eagerly awaited its arrival from across the pond – its created a buzz that flooded our feeds. Since then, the brand has earned its stripes as a go-to for achieving that less-is-more approach to makeup, gliding effortlessly onto the skin for a healthy-looking finish. The Merit Minimalist Perfecting complexion stick, a foundation concealer hybrid, aptly reaches the undereye area and provides natural coverage – plus it comes in 20 different shades.

Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré Multi-Purpose Moisturiser

This three-in-one moisturising lotion, primer and make-up remover is a make-up artist approved essential. A firm fixture in every artist’s kit, this product suits all unique skin types and forms a satin base for perfect application or wearing alone.

Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm

We’re all familiar with multi-tasking balms that have taken over the pared-back, clean beauty scene. This perfect pot has a buttery formula, that melts onto the skin, plumps the lips and cheeks, and adds a subtle touch of colour (available in 6 shades) to your everyday make-up look.

KOSAS Air Brow Tinted Volumizing Treatment Gel

For limited make-up days, if you have unruly brows like me, nothing beats a brush of gel through them. Kosas’ tinted moussey-gel achieves airy, feathery brows (forget cloggy and clumpy) boosted by hair care actives that condition and support full brow health.