It's all about less make-up, more magic

Gone are the days of heavy contouring, overdrawn brows, and foundation that feels like second skin. In 2025, the beauty scene is having a reckoning, and at the heart of this transformation is the clean-girl aesthetic. Think luminous, natural-looking skin, subtly defined eyes, and lips that whisper rather than shout. And leading the charge? Dubai-based make-up artist Deepali Akuula, who believes the future of beauty is all about skincare-first minimalism.

“The nude look has been the talk of the beauty town for a while now,” Akuula says, explaining how this aesthetic has evolved over the last few years. “It started with the glass skin trend, but in 2025, it’s all about the prep that goes on before the make-up. It’s about reducing layers and making sure skin actually looks like skin.”

While neutral make-up has often been synonymous with barely-there looks, Akuula insists that subtle doesn’t mean boring. “It’s all about small tweaks that make a big impact,” she explains. “Something as simple as a swipe of mascara, a little kohl on the waterline, or a well-defined lip liner can elevate a minimal look instantly.”

Speaking of lips, the 90s trend of darker lip liner is making a major comeback. “Just lining your lips a shade darker than your lipstick and adding a clear gloss can change your entire look,” she notes.

And if you’re feeling bold? “A red, brown, or wine-toned lipstick on a neutral face is the ultimate power move.”

Neutral tones are getting a fresh update with soft monochromes and understated metallics.

“People think metallics are tricky, but they’re actually an easy way to add dimension,” Akuula says. Her go-to trick? “Use a matte eyeshadow as a base, then dab a metallic shade of the same colour on the centre of your lids — it’s a total game changer.”

For a natural glow, she swears by lip and cheek tints. “Mix a nude or peachy blush with a hint of highlighter, and you’ll get that effortlessly sun-kissed look,” she suggests. And for those wanting to experiment? “A muted metallic lip — just a dusting of champagne or rose gold highlighter over your lipstick — adds that chic glam touch without going overboard.”

The shift towards skin-first make-up has also redefined the textures and products that dominate beauty bags. “Hydrating primers and tinted moisturisers are the real MVPs,” Deepali states. “Cream blushes and liquid highlighters melt into the skin, creating that dewy, fresh look without looking cakey.”

She’s also officially over ultra-sharp eyeliners. “The smudged eyeliner look is in, and I love it! It’s softer, more effortless. Brown kajals and liners are replacing harsh black lines, and it just feels more natural.”

And when it comes to lips? “A glossy nude lip is the ultimate modern take. Lip tints and balms are so much more forgiving and fresher than matte lipsticks.”

As effortless as the nude aesthetic looks, there are some common missteps that can make it appear anything but. “The biggest mistake? Skipping skincare before make-up,” Akuula warns. “Cleansing, moisturising and sunscreen are non-negotiable.”

Another blunder? Overloading on foundation. “People either pick the wrong shade or apply too much. Always match your foundation to your neck — not your wrist — and opt for lighter coverage.”

And let’s talk brows. “Filling in your brows with a stark black pencil is a big no-no,” she emphasises. “Your brows should look natural, not drawn on. Always brush them out after filling for a softer finish.”

With Instagram and TikTok dictating beauty trends at lightning speed, Deepali urges people to find what works for their unique features rather than blindly following viral hacks.

“Not every trend is meant for everyone. A liner trick that works for almond eyes might not suit someone with hooded eyes. And let’s be real — so many of these supposedly flawless make-up looks online are heavily edited.”

Her advice? “Know your undertone, experiment with products, and build your signature version of clean make-up. The goal isn’t to look like someone else — it’s to enhance your natural beauty.”

If you’re looking to step up your neutral game without stepping out of your comfort zone, Akuula has a few subtle yet impactful suggestions. “Try coloured kajal or mascara — deep greens, purples, or navy blues look stunning yet sophisticated.”

And forget what you thought you knew about smokey eyes. “It doesn’t have to be black or brown. A monochrome smokey eye in burgundy, taupe, or even soft coral can be just as striking.”

For an instant update, she recommends playing with lip textures. “If you usually go for mattes, switch to a glossy or satin finish. A little highlighter on the cupid’s bow can also add dimension to your lips.”

Her final tip? “A dot of highlighter on the inner corner of your eyes — it instantly brightens your face and makes your eyes pop!”

As beauty continues to shift toward an aesthetic that embraces skin’s natural texture, Akuula says, “It’s all about balance. Make-up should feel good, not heavy. And when done right, the clean-girl look isn’t about wearing less — it’s about wearing it better.”