How I Create a Natural-Looking Base Without Foundation

Over the past few months, I have completely changed the way I do my make-up. I explained in more detail why I stopped wearing foundation.

I used to want to correct absolutely everything: pores, redness, texture and the smallest blemish. These days, I simply want to look fresh without appearing as though I have put on an entirely different face.

1. Typology T30 Unifying Blurring Care

I often begin with Typology T30 Unifying Blurring Care, formulated with niacinamide and PHAs.

It is not tinted, so it does not add colour or replace my Erborian CC cream. I mainly use it to soften the appearance of my pores and make the texture of my skin look a little more even.

It does not transform my skin completely. It simply creates a slightly smoother finish without leaving any visible product behind.

It is exactly the sort of product I appreciate now: discreet, uncomplicated and easy to use.

2. Erborian CC Dull Correct

Erborian CC Dull Correct is undoubtedly the central product in this routine.

It is what replaced foundation in my everyday make-up.

I use it to even out my complexion gently, soften small imperfections and make my skin look fresher. It adds a little radiance while allowing my real skin to remain visible underneath, which is exactly what I want.

With foundation, I often felt that my pores, dry patches and the product itself became even more noticeable. Then there was always the shade dilemma: perfect beneath the shop lighting, yet far too yellow, pink or dark the moment I stepped outside.

Erborian is much easier. I apply it with my fingers, blend it quickly and my complexion instantly looks fresher.

It is the product I use even on days when I do not really feel like wearing make-up. Thank you, Sephora Gold gifts.

3. Tarte Corrector to Brighten the Under-Eye Area

Under my eyes, I use the Tarte CC Coloured Clay Undereye Corrector in Light-Medium.

I apply it only where I need it and blend it without trying to create a completely frozen under-eye area. I keep it right beneath the darkest part of my circles. Sometimes I add a touch of blush there too, which makes everything look fresher.

The Erborian CC cream evens out my face, while the corrector simply brightens my eyes.

The result remains light, but the difference is immediate. It is perfect for mornings after a poor night of sleep.

4. Dior Forever Nude Matte Filter Powder

As my skin tends to be oily, I like to set a few areas lightly with Dior Forever Nude Matte Filter.

I do not necessarily powder my entire face. I mainly apply it through the T-zone, around my nose and occasionally beneath my eyes.

Its texture is incredibly fine and gives a softly blurred finish without feeling like another layer of make-up.

5. Merit Day Glow for a Little Radiance

Once my base is finished, I use Merit Day Glow in the shade Cava.

It is a wonderfully easy highlighter stick with a luminous finish but no large pieces of glitter. I apply it directly to my cheekbones, the bridge of my nose and just above my lip, then blend it with my fingers.

It adds just enough light to make the finished look feel fresh.

I love this kind of product because it is almost impossible to get wrong. No brush, no special technique and, most importantly, no disco-ball effect at eight in the morning.

6. Dior Backstage Blush

Dior Backstage blush adapts to the tone of the skin.

I think a little colour on the cheeks changes the face immediately. Even after a terrible night, a few touches are enough to make me look much fresher and more awake.

I always begin with very little product, then add more if needed. Over the Erborian CC cream, the blush blends beautifully and the finish remains soft.

It is the product that completes the routine and gives me that slightly more awake look I want every morning.

7. Charlotte Tilbury Setting Spray

To finish, I use Charlotte Tilbury setting spray.

I mist it over my face to help the products melt together and last longer. I particularly like how it removes the slightly powdery finish that can sometimes remain after doing my base.

Everything immediately looks fresher, more natural and a little more luminous.

Most importantly, no more make-up sliding down my face when the weather is warm.

A Simple, Natural-Looking Base Routine

My base routine therefore includes:

• Typology T30 Unifying Blurring Care
• Erborian CC Dull Correct
• Tarte corrector for dark circles
• Dior powder
• Merit Day Glow
• Dior Backstage blush
• Charlotte Tilbury setting spray to bring everything together.

My skin can breathe, and so can I.

I still love make-up, beautiful products and packaging that makes me want to buy everything. But in the morning, I need my routine to be quick, simple and enjoyable.

Simplifying my routine has also saved me so much time before work. I no longer need to pile on layers or take out a thousand products simply to look fresh. Removing it all in the evening is easier too. It takes seconds, my skin feels less overloaded and the whole routine is far simpler. I have also gathered all the skincare products I use in my beauty routine for oily skin.