Introduction

I was shopping a few weeks ago with a friend and mentioned I was on the hunt for cosmetic products that would make me look as though I’m not wearing any. She looked at me like I was nuts.

As ridiculous as it may sound to some, finding makeup that causes one to appear as though she’s not wearing any is exactly the look many are going for. Walk into any beauty department and you’ll find that almost every line carries at least a few items that promise to deliver a more natural effect. If you have a penchant for a pure, fresh, unmade face, take comfort in knowing you have many options to consider.

Hourglass Aura Sheer Lip Stain

Brand new to the shelves, this water-based formula deposits a sheer wash of color that lasts for hours. And the best part is you can actually build the pigment―do one quick sweep over the lips for just a subtle tint, or apply a few layers for a more intense, saturated hue. The real beauty is you won’t find yourself reapplying like you do with lipstick or gloss. ($26, Sephora.com)

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

This beauty editor fave (it’s been the InStyle Best Beauty Buy for Best Tinted Moisturizer two years in a row) is the ultimate triple threat: moisturizer, sheer coverage, and sun protection all in one smooth, lightweight formula. ($42, Nordstrom.com)

Dior SkinFlash Radiance Booster Pen

The key to waking up tired eyes is to apply a small amount of strategically applied brightener. Just a touch of this satiny cream around the inner and outer corners of the orbital area gives eyes instant life. It’s a great alternative to concealer because it highlights the eyes naturally. ($36, Nordstrom.com)

Tarte 24/7 Natural Lip Sheer

When Carmex just isn’t doing the trick anymore, try this high-sheen lip tint. It works to soften lips while adding just a bit of color. And better yet, it’s loaded with lip-moisturizing ingredients like coconut and peppermint oil, mango butter, and vitamin E. ($16, Tarte.com)

Anastasia Brow Gel

Never underestimate the power of a groomed brow. A quick comb-through of this conditioning gel will not only keep brows in place, but will also help to open up the eye and leave you with a fresh, natural look. ($21, Nordstrom.com)

Nars Cream Blush in Penny Lane

When it comes to adding color to your cheeks while keeping it super natural, cream blush is the way to go. This moisture-rich, velvety blush goes on smooth and leaves a luminous flush that lasts all day. ($27, Drugstore.com)

Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara

If you want to go sans eye makeup but still want definition, clear mascara will work wonders. Not only is this drugstore favorite non-clumping, safe for contact lens wearers, and totally affordable, but it also conditions and separates lashes beautifully. ($5.49, Walgreens.com)

Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanning

One of the simplest ways to add a little color to your face is to, well, add a little color. A long-time leader in the self-tanning category, Clarins has truly outdone themselves with this super silky tanning lotion that gives your face and décolletage a decadent glow. You can do a thin application for light, sun-kissed color or apply layers for a deeper "Yeah, I just got back from the Caribbean" tan. ($33, Bliss.com)