Taking a selfie in flawless, filter-free makeup seems impossible (and, if we’re being honest, a little scary). However, with the right products, going sans-filter is not only achievable but also preferable if you want to keep your photos as natural as possible.
PRIMERS AND FOUNDATIONS
Start your look with a blurring primer, which will shrink the size of pores and create a smoothed-over effect on skin, try Maybelline New York Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser, R89,95. If you’re looking for a glowing Valencia-esque look (rather than a blurred-out bright Amaro finish), use Mac’s Prep & Prime Natural Radiance, R430; which will highlight the skin to create the desired effect.
For base, we love Revlon Photoready Airbrush Effect SPF20, R279, which, as its name suggests, offers glowing airbrushed skin in a bottle without looking heavy. For a fuller finish, opt for Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 24HR Makeup, R365, which will revive even the most tired skin.
POWDERS AND HIGHLIGHTERS
The next step is to powder skin to get rid of any unnecessary shine and to give it an even more smoothed over blurred-out effect. Our favourites include Wet n Wild Coverall Pressed Powder Compact, R54,95 and L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24H Powder Foundation, R200; both of which are finely milled and lightly tinted compacts. Kim Kardashian-style contouring is an optional selfie addition, but one that works well. For more of a glossy sheen, we recommend using cream contour and highlighter sticks, such as the Smashbox ones.
Finish your skin off with a beautiful glow. If you’re serious about selfie makeup, you need to get your hands on: Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Bronze, R675 a trio of bronzers and highlighters which give the effect of 3 different Instagram filters.
LIPS AND EYES
The finishing touches for your look come in the form of the lip and eye makeup. For lips, stick to a natural-looking ‘your lips but better’ colour in a moisturising sheeny finish, such as Clinique Pop Lip Primer in Wow Pop, R275.
Eye makeup should be kept simple, but also aim to brighten the eye. Line your eyebrows with a subtle brow pencil such as Inglot Brow Shaping Pencil, R209. Next, run a nude eyeliner across your waterline and inner corner to open up the eye like, Catrice Made To Stay Inside Highlighter Pen, R49,95. Go for shimmering champagne shades on the eyelid to add a special sparkle. Clarins Ombre Matte in Nude Pink, R300 are great, as are neutral-toned palettes like Essence All About Nude Eyeshadow, R67,50.
Finish off the look with some optional touches, such as mascara and a darker kohl, and you’re totally insta-ready.
Looking for more filter-worthy makeup tips and tricks? These are the 5 makeup mistakes that will age you – instantly(a selfie no-no)
