How To: Five Tips for that ‘clean-girl’ Makeup Look

BY HANNAH CASSIDY

There are two sides to beauty on social media at the moment: over-the-top, maximalist makeup (think Euphoria-inspired) and no-makeup makeup looks, also known as the “Clean Girl Aesthetic”. Fueled heavily by TikTok creators, this “clean” trend (not to be confused with clean beauty) might seem like Gen Z’s repackaging of millennial Glossier-esque minimalism at first glance, but its viral status among all generations, not just Gen Z, indicates deeper roots. The desire to mindfully consume products and the rise of sustainable beauty definitely add to its universal appeal. Plus, after two pandemic years of replacing our foundation with skincare, pared-back routines are the new norm. In short, the Clean Girl Aesthetic just makes sense.

So, What *Is* the Clean Girl Aesthetic?

It’s effortless, minimalist, and a total vibe. The clean girl look is kind of like beauty’s take on a capsule wardrobe, focusing on quality over quantity, and you’ve definitely seen it in action on your FYP. The markers are glowy, dewy skin, slicked-back hair, defined lashes, and fluffy brows—all topped off with a pair of gold hoops…and maybe a blazer, if you’re feeling fancy. If it were a person, it would be Hailey Bieber and her model-off-duty appearance. Aside from all of its qualifications (which are not requirements BTW), clean girl makeup is designed to let the real you shine through. Oh, and it’s extremely easy to pull off.