25 VSCO Makeup Looks So Good, You'll Be Racing to Find Some Natural Light
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Makeup trends come and go, but we're betting the first of 2020 will stick around for awhile. Meet "VSCO makeup," a subtle, albeit fast-growing, beauty trend that according to its name started on the popular photo-editing app, VSCO. Unlike the bold and dramatic trends that start on runways and red carpets, "VSCO makeup" is hard to spot without context. With that in mind, once you notice it, there's no turning back because, right now, it's everywhere.
The best part about the "VSCO makeup" craze is that it's relatively nonspecific — it doesn't really involve anything complicated or ornate. More often than not, photos tagged with the popular hashtag feature a ton of natural light, a speck of highlighter dotted on the inner corners of the eyes, and a juicy clear lip gloss. It's simple enough that everyone can try it out, which is probably why it's so loved right now — by regular people and celebrities alike. In fact, according to a recent Pinterest report, searches for "VSCO makeup" are up 913 percent.
It's safe to say we have the "VSCO girl" to thank for this one. The Gen Z archetype popularized in 2019 is one that embodies a generation who favors fresh-faced, sun-kissed makeup over anything full-coverage. We already know the "VSCO girl" is a beauty enthusiast, pegged to change the way we buy beauty products forever, but who knew she'd also be the one to convince us to curl our lashes and ditch foundation?
To offer a little inspiration, we found the best "VSCO makeup" looks out there.
Zendaya is the queen of taking selfies in a stream of sunlight. Of course, the photo-perfecting move is a VSCO go-to — and we see why.
Glossy lids to match your glossy lips? Shay Mitchell knows what's up.
Pair a tinted balm with a subtle wash of baked blush and swipe of glittery shadow for a subtle VSCO makeup look.
Letting your fresh skin show through a light layer of makeup is the VSCO girl MO — and Yara Shahidi appears onboard.
Fluttery lashes? Check. Clear lip gloss? Check. Polished brows? Check!
Most highlighters are known for its intensity, but mixing your favorite shimmer with a moisturizer can offer up a subtle glow, just like this one.
VSCO makeup is all about letting those cheekbones shine.
Don't forget to keep your base minimal and your highlighter beaming.
Another important element of VSCO makeup includes the eyebrows. Keep them full, feathered, and brushed at all times. Look to Sofia Carson for all the #browspo.
When your makeup is so good people will think it's a filter.
Of course, Addison Rae of TikTok fame is a pro at VSCO makeup. Her signature: bold brows, dramatic lashes, and a sun-kissed stain on her cheeks.
Following in suit is fellow Hype House member of TikTok, Avani Gregg. Seriously, she could blind us with her beaming brow bones.
We never knew Lil Mama's "Lip Gloss" could be so relevant in 2020.
Don't forget to snap a picture of your neutral eyeshadow that somehow perfectly complements your favorite Starbucks beverage.
VSCO makeup also extends to the all-over glow Navia Robinson is rocking here.
Blush is also a crucial step in the VSCO makeup process. Luckily, the only thing you need to know about trying it is to use a lot.
Jenna Ortega's pink lip gloss is the perfect finishing touch to this glowing look.
Even Gigi Hadid is catching onto the trend. Of course, she put her own twist on the radiant look with an iridescent eyeshadow on her inner corners.
When it comes to VSCO, less is more and a room with natural light is key.
Like we said, blush is a must for VSCO makeup. Like the evolved version of draped blush in the '80s, VSCO blush is intense. The only difference: drag your blush over the middle point of the nose to fake a tiny sunburn that's shockingly flattering.
Even Jordyn Woods knows the power of look-at-me lashes. Skipping a bold eyeshadow ensures that the feathery feature really pops.
Olivia Rodrigo just proved the magic of monochromatic neutral makeup.
Layer your lip gloss over top of a lipstick stain for a more intense look. Oh, and don't forget the scrunchie!
TikTok star and dancer Charli D'Amelio is a pro at expertly tapping her highlighter onto the high points of her face and still making it look natural.
The VSCO makeup trend is all about embracing your freckles — real or fake.