3 steps to freckles that look natural but are totally fake
Fake freckles are in, so here’s how to hit the spot with the beauty craze dotting runways and magazine covers around the world.
If you’ve been anywhere near social media lately, odds on you’ve noticed someone sporting a sprinkling of playful fake freckles.
Since taking off on Pinterest, the fresh-freckled beauty trend has skyrocketed.
Think Meghan Markle walking down the aisle with her (all natural) frecks on full display.
Or Lizzo’s recent Insta post showing freckles dotted across her nose, cheeks and forehead.
Bella Hadid, Emily Ratajkowski and Penelope Cruz have also all flashed freckled faces.
What’s driving the faux freckle trend?
So why, when we used to try so hard to conceal them, are freckles now the beauty accessory du jour?
“It’s all about the ‘no make-up-make-up’ look and we’re seeing a lot of it on the runway and everywhere really,” celebrity make-up artist Jade Kisnorbo says.
“Freckles give interest and texture and are associated with fresh dewy skin.
“They’re also handy in helping to cover other blemishes.”
Beauty expert Desiree Wise, who’s also worked for a host of celebrity clients, agrees.
“From a fashion point of view, diversity and individuality are where everyone is at, so for a lot of girls embracing the idea of freckles creates a point of interest and adds an element of uniqueness to their look,” Desiree says.
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How to fake your freckles
Even if you’re not blessed with natural freckles, the good news is you can totally fake them.
While adding dots to your face may sound simple, making fake freckles look authentic takes some solid skills.
So we called on our make-up gurus for some, let’s call them dot points.
1. Set your base
Jade says to create the illusion you have a naturally freckled face it is important to create a flawless base.
“Apply your concealer and foundation, and always on well-moisturised and well-prepared skin,” Jade says.
Want to highlight your natural freckles?
“Try a tinted moisturiser or lightweight foundation and let them shine through,” Desiree suggests.
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2. Dot, dot, dot
Time for the star(s) of the show, so choose your product, whether a freckle pen, felt tip liquid liner or a pot of brown waterproof eyebrow cream (and a brush with a very fine point), our experts recommend.
“Then lightly dot on to the parts of your face that the sun naturally hits, concentrating on your cheekbones, nose and forehead,” Desiree says.
“And add a bit of variance by dabbing a few here and there, so that it looks natural and not too perfect,” Jade advises.
3. Dab and blend
Let’s face it, no two freckles look alike in the wild so the last step is to smudge your dots with your fingertips so they don’t look drawn on.
“Blur them into your skin and then reapply one or two where you want them to look darker.
“If your skin is a bit oily, lightly dust a bit of powder on top to help them last longer,” Jade says.
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Written by Liz McGrath.
