The term 'Neutral', 'Natural' and 'Soft Glam' are often intertwined when discussing how we want our makeup to look.
But actually, there is a big difference!
Ever had your makeup done and been unhappy with the results? If you used the descriptive words 'neutral' or 'natural', there may be a reason why...
Georgia Ella Beauty are professional makeup artists, specialising specifically in bridal makeup. We have definitely seen the 'neutral vs natural' discussion in play for some time, and we want to help define the difference to better help customers get the results they want from the makeup services they're paying for.
Neutral VS Natural Makeup
Neutral and natural makeup can not really be compared. This is because one is a style of application, and the other is a description for the makeup applied.
There are certainly better words to use when describing the sort of look you want to your makeup artist. We'll explain this further, so keep reading..
What Can I Expect From 'Natural Makeup'?
Natural makeup is a descriptive phrasing for the application of your makeup.
A makeup artist who is advised to apply natural makeup will instantly think of the saying, 'less is more'.
Think, light coverage, no foundation & a minimal amount of medium coverage concealer (probably just enough to cover any blemishes), tinted lip balm or gloss, muted cream blush and mascara.
You may still see your freckles, any natural flushes etc.
Essentially the description 'natural', when it comes to makeup, means natural- looking enhancements only.
Can Makeup Artists Specialise in 'Natural Makeup'?
Most makeup artists specialise in a particular style of application, such as natural makeup.
It isn't common to find a makeup artist advertising themselves as specialising in 'neutral' makeup, as this term covers all different application styles.
It is really important to consider an MUA's specialities when deciding who to book or enquire with. Doing so will ensure you get results that are to your preference, slimming any chances of feeling disappointed or wanting adjustments.
It is also considerate of professional makeup artists to do so, as whilst skilful and adaptable, you may set them up for failure if booking a full glam artist for an ultra natural look.
Georgia Ella Beauty specialises in 'soft glams', which to us means enhanced and glowing skin with a hint of defining bronzer and complimentary eyes.. we explain 'soft glam' in more detail below (you can book in here).
Whilst we specialise in 'soft glam' looks, there are artists that will be a perfect match for those natural makeup lovers.
What is 'Neutral Makeup'?
Neutral makeup is not so much about the style of application, but the tones and colours that we use.
By definition, a neutral colour is pale grey, cream, or beige, or nude.
In the application of makeup, this may present itself as gold or brown eyeshadows; a muted pink, brown or nude lipstick; or even an undertone of foundation!
Can 'Neutral' Makeup Be 'Natural'?
What is very interesting in the comparison of these phrases within the makeup industry, is that both can exist together at the same time!
Natural makeup can be neutral. Neutral makeup can be natural.
Neutral makeup can not be compared to natural makeup because, as described above, they are in different descriptive categories. Neutral makeup can describe all application styles of makeup.
The real comparison however, is 'natural', 'soft glam', and 'full glam' makeup.
What is 'Soft Glam' Makeup?
Soft glam makeup is a 'step up' from natural makeup. It sits somewhere between natural and full glam. Similarly to natural makeup, soft glam is usually quite neutral!
The base makeup may be fuller coverage to create a seamless base, but it will still be naturally enhancing, as though your base makeup is a second skin. Your face will be 'glowing from within'.
Soft glam eyes will have more enhancements than natural makeup typically does, so you may see a neutral shimmer, more depth in the outer corner, or a soft smudged liner. We like to top the look off with a stick on lash.
Natural Makeup VS Soft Glam VS Full Glam
This is what you can expect form either makeup terms, however it can vary from makeup artist to makeup artist.
Natural | Soft Glam | Full Glam | |
|---|---|---|---|
Base | CC cream or concealer on blemishes. Freckles or imperfections may show | Medium coverage foundation and concealer under the eyes and on blemishes. A good blend of skin showing through and imperfections covered | Full coverage foundation, full coverage concealer. No imperfections in sight |
Cheeks | Soft blush and liquid highlighter | Sunkissed bronzer, blushed cheeks and glowy highlighter | Deep bronze and contour, dramatic blush and strong highlighter |
Eyebrows | Brows fixed into place with gel or wax | Brows enhanced with powder or pencil | Strong brows filled in with pomade or pencil |
Eyeshadow | Soft definition in the crease | Shimmer, soft and blended definition and depth in the crease, outer corners and under-eye | pigmented, strong shadows - bright or neutral colours. Strong shapes such as cut creases, thick eyeliner |
Lashes | Mascara | Mascara and lashes | Mascara and lashes, which may be fuller or more volumous |
Lips | Stain, tinted balm or gloss | Neutral or soft pink lip liner and lipstick, gloss | Neutral or strong colours. Lip liner, lipstick, gloss |
Let's Recap..
So, now that we have discussed the definition and interpretation of 'natural' and 'neutral' makeup, it is easier to understand that there really isn't a comparison to be had between the two.
Natural, Soft Glam and Full Glam makeup are different styles of makeup application that can be compared, as above.
Neutral makeup is a descriptor that can be used across all three of the application styles to explain the colours and tones you would like.
Hopefully, this will better guide conversations you have with your makeup artist to communicate the sort of results you want.
Leave us a comment with any questions as we'd love to help, and make sure to subscribe on our blog homepage for more interesting makeup related content.
TTYL,
Georgia
Georgia Ella Beauty
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