We all know how the no-makeup look actually requires quite a few products. So how do we achieve that natural look for work without looking cakey yet just well-groomed enough for a boardroom meeting? Well, the good news is, if you need to buy cosmetic products for the whole look from scratch, essence Cosmetics has all you need without needing to break the bank. Take a look at the basics that you need and what it might cost you at the end of the day.

The Right Base For That Natural Look For Work

Start with the base – the canvas for your face – with the essence BRIGHTEN UP! cushion foundation. The formula is lightweight, yet glides on smoothly for medium coverage that blurs out blemishes and will have you looking fresh and glowy-ish. BRIGHTEN UP comes in 4 shades in Malaysia: Honey, Sand, Creme, Almond.

Price: RM39

Look Bright Eyed With The Right Makeup

Use eyeshadows in natural shades and eye-opening mascara to look always awake when your bosses are speaking to you. The essence ROSE Edition eyeshadow palette has beautiful soft and natural shades that can be used together to create the illusion of bigger eyes. Easy tip: Use the darker colours inside your eye crease, and the lighter colours on your whole lid for a quick basic look.

Price: RM36

To open up your eyes even more, swipe the I LOVE EXTREME Volume Mascara upwards, layering 2-3 coats quickly before it dries up to avoid the clumpy look. Using your mascara the right way makes it unnecessary to try to draw in eyeliner (and fail, if you’re trying to do it quickly but haven’t had enough practice). Just swipe the mascara and you’re good to go.

Price: RM25.80

Avoid Looking Like Death With Natural Looking Lip Gloss

With the essence Extreme Shine Volume Lipgloss, you don’t need lipliners or crazy makeup skills to get that full-lip look. If you’re looking for a natural look without looking pale, choose the shades Summer Punch, Shadow Rose or Dazzling Apricot. For a slightly bolder colour, Rusty Kiss should match all skin tones. Meanwhile, Purple Rain will give lips a glossy nude look, with Sparkling Purple giving a similar effect but with way more glitter – if you’re looking to add some punch to your office look.

Price: RM19.70

So what’s the damage for this very basic yet complete set for that natural makeup look for work? It rounds up to a grand total of RM120.50 – not bad for four quality makeup products that are made using 100% vegan ingredients and are free from microplastic particles. Hot tip: essence cosmetics are available at all Watson’s stores, but you might get substantial discounts if you buy from their official Shopee store.