Can I get the ‘no makeup’ look using the pro’s patchwork method?

The hack
Ever wonder how celebrities look as though they’re not wearing makeup? Applying skincare and base products like “patchwork” could be the key.

The test
Patchwork skin, a term coined by makeup artist Lisa Eldridge, is how professional makeup artists create a flawless base that looks like bare skin. The strategy? Use products only where you need them, rather than treating your face like one giant canvas.

I try her method, looking at my face as individual sections. My skin needs a serum and light moisturiser all over, but I notice that my cheeks are drier, so apply a little oil on them alone. I use an SPF spray all over – that’s not patchworkable – then apply a pea-size drop of foundation with a small brush around my mouth, where there’s a little uneven tone, avoiding anywhere else. Then I use a larger, clean foundation brush to blend that foundation with my skin – like sewing a patchwork quilt.

With a fine brush I use a tiny blob of concealer in the inner corners of my eyes to cover any blemishes, and blend again using the foundation brush. Finally, I use a small under-eye powder brush to set just my concealed areas.

The verdict
Fully sold. All-over foundation can look mask-like, and this only took five minutes longer to blend it all in. More minimal foundation made my makeup look far fresher and much better.