How is the 'clean girl' makeup trend redefining minimalism in beauty?
by Khadija Husain
3 Oct 2024

The beauty world is currently obsessed with the rise of the 'clean girl' makeup trend, and honestly, it’s easy to see why. At a time when we’re all craving simplicity and that effortless, put-together vibe, this look feels like the ultimate refresh. It’s the kind of makeup style that screams 'I woke up like this'—fresh, radiant, and low-key flawless. Think dewy skin, neatly groomed brows, a pop of blush, and glossy lips, all while skipping the heavy foundation and dramatic contour that used to be the go-to. It’s all about looking naturally polished without looking like you tried too hard.
What’s really interesting is how this minimalistic vibe is taking over globally. We’re seeing it everywhere—on social media, on our favorite influencers, and in beauty stores where everyone’s rushing to get the latest skincare-infused makeup. And there’s a reason this look is so appealing. It’s not just about makeup; it’s about feeling good in your own skin. The clean girl aesthetic lets your natural features shine through, giving off this fresh, youthful glow that’s perfect for anyone who’s done with the full glam, cake-face era.
One of the brands totally owning this trend is Glossier, with its whole ‘your skin but better’ philosophy. Their Skin Tint (about AED 130) has become a cult favorite. It’s super lightweight and gives you just enough coverage to blur imperfections while still letting your skin breathe. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, Maybelline’s Fit Me Tinted Moisturizer (around AED 40) is another solid option, and you can find it practically anywhere, from your local drugstore to Carrefour. Both products are perfect for that barely-there coverage that’s key to nailing the clean girl look.

And let’s not forget how this trend is blowing up on social media. From TikTok to Instagram, influencers are flaunting their glowing, sun-kissed complexions, showing that less really can be more. The whole vibe is about enhancing what you’ve already got—whether it’s your skin, your brows, or even your lips. Instead of layering on tons of product, it’s all about using lightweight, hydrating formulas that give you that dewy finish, which, let’s be real, feels so much better, especially in warmer climates where heavy makeup can feel suffocating.

Speaking of brows, they’re a major part of the clean girl look, but don’t worry—it’s not about going full-on Instagram brow. The goal is well-groomed, defined brows that look natural, not overly sculpted. Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Brow Wiz (AED 115 at Sephora) is a must-have for this. It gives you just the right amount of control to fill in your brows and keep them looking neat without going overboard. It’s all about balance—enough structure to frame your face but soft enough to stay in line with that effortless vibe.
Then there’s the lips. Glossy, juicy lips are a huge part of the clean girl aesthetic. Think lip oils and light glosses instead of heavy matte lipsticks. Fenty Beauty’s Gloss Bomb (AED 95) is one product that’s been making waves for all the right reasons. It gives your lips that high-shine finish but with a moisturizing feel, so you’re not just looking good—you’re feeling good too.
But here’s the real kicker: the clean girl trend isn’t just about makeup—it’s a whole lifestyle shift toward better skin health. Women are investing in skincare like never before. The idea is that if your skin looks amazing, you don’t need much makeup at all. So we’re talking vitamin C serums, niacinamide, and hydrating creams that enhance your natural glow. The Ordinary’s Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%, which retails for about AED 50, is a game-changer for those looking to even out their skin tone and keep blemishes at bay. La Roche-Posay also has some incredible options for sensitive skin that won’t break the bank, making it easier to achieve that glowing, dewy complexion that’s central to the clean girl vibe.
All over the world, women are swapping out their heavy-duty makeup for products that highlight, rather than hide, their natural beauty. This minimalist approach doesn’t just save time (goodbye, 10-step makeup routine!), it also feels a lot more in tune with how we want to live our lives these days—streamlined, easy, and focused on the essentials.
At the end of the day, the clean girl makeup trend is about more than just how you look. It’s about how you feel. There’s something incredibly empowering about walking out the door with just a few key products on your face, knowing that your natural beauty is shining through. Whether you’re going to work, out with friends, or just running errands, the clean girl aesthetic proves that sometimes, less really is more—and it’s a trend we can all get behind.