How to Get Skin That Looks Good Naked

For many women, the idea of going out in public without a face full of makeup is a non-starter. With acne, discoloration, and other imperfections on display for all to see, it’s easy to understand why going bare-faced can be a terrifying ordeal. Instead of relying on makeup to camouflage skin concerns, wouldn’t you rather use it as a tool for amplifying a flawless-looking canvas? That way, you don’t have to panic (or hide out indoors) if you run out of foundation and concealer. Ahead, we share simple tips and tricks to help you achieve skin that looks good naked. Ready to join the bare face movement? Keep reading! 

CLEANSE

The first step to achieving flawless-looking skin? Washing your face morning and night. Use a gentle cleanser to wash away pore-clogging dirt, impurities, and bacteria from skin’s surface. It’s a no-brainer, but cleansed skin looks way better than skin bogged down with grime—trust us.

Need help picking a face wash for your skin type? Whether your skin is oily or dry, we share a few of our favorite cleansers, here!

EXFOLIATE

When’s the last time you exfoliated your skin? If it’s been longer than a week, reach for a gentle facial scrub or exfoliating cleanser. These products can help slough away unwanted dirt, oil, and dead skin cell buildup, all of which can make a complexion appear dull and lifeless. If the surface of your lips feel cracked and rough, extend the exfoliation love to your pout for a smoother, softer feel.

MOISTURIZE

Regardless of your skin type, you can’t get away without moisturizing your skin, especially post-cleansing and exfoliating. For a natural-looking glow sans makeup, reach for a moisturizer that can both hydrate and illuminate your skin, like Yves Saint Laurent Top Secrets Instant Moisture Glow. Don’t forget to apply a generous coat of your favorite lip balm or conditioner, as well! 

OTHER TIPS

Cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing regularly will have you well on your way to A+ skin. To up the ante even further, follow the additional tips, below.

1. Get Enough Sleep: If you feel tired, your skin will surely show it. Pronounced dark circles, dry skin, puffy eyes, and visible signs of aging are all potential side effects of sleep deprivation. Why allow them to hinder your efforts? Be sure to catch the recommended amount of Zzz’s per night.

2. Drink Water: In addition to hydrating your skin on the outside, stay hydrated on the inside with good ol’ H20. Avoid dehydration by drinking the recommended amount of water per day.

3. Protect with SPF: The negative side effects of unprotected sun exposure may not be visible right away, but fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and even some cancers can creep up on your complexion over time. By applying (and reapplying!) broad-spectrum SPF 15 or higher daily from a young age, you can help protect your skin’s risk.

4. Be Confident: If your skin looks worse for wear, it’s understandable to be self-conscious and want to mask imperfections. While you can’t always control the way your skin behaves—like those unannounced pimples that pop up at the absolute worst time—you can control the way you feel about yourself. Be confident! You’re beautiful with AND without makeup.