ele STYLED

Faux freckles have gone from runway novelty to everyday beauty staple. Whether you weren’t born with them or just want to enhance what you’ve got, faking freckles can add warmth, texture, and that fresh, sun-kissed glow we all crave—without the UV damage.

Here’s how to create realistic faux freckles that blend seamlessly with your makeup.

Step 1: Start with a Light Base

If you’re wearing foundation, go for something sheer or skin-like. Thick, full-coverage products can make faux freckles look painted on rather than part of your skin. If you’re freckle-heavy, consider applying foundation after your freckles for a more faded, natural look.

Step 2: Choose the Right Product

There are several ways to make faux freckles, depending on your comfort level:

• Freckle Pens: The easiest option. Brands like Freck Beauty or MCo Beauty have pens specifically designed for natural-looking specks.
• Brow Pens: A great dupe—look for a fine-tipped pen with a slightly cool-toned brown.
• Eyeshadow and Brush: Use a stiff eyeliner brush or a toothbrush, dip it into a brown-toned shadow, and lightly tap across your face.
• Henna Freckles (for semi-permanent results): Only attempt this with a safe, facial-grade product and be cautious with placement.

For shade, stick with soft brown or taupe. Avoid anything too warm (red/orange) or too dark (deep black-brown) unless your skin tone naturally calls for it.

Step 3: Apply Sparingly and Randomly

Start lightly across the bridge of the nose, cheekbones, and upper cheeks—where the sun would naturally hit. Vary the size and spacing. The key is randomness: if the dots look too even or perfectly round, they’ll look fake.

Pro tip: Flick the pen lightly and don’t press too hard. Freckles should look like they’re in the skin, not sitting on top of it.

Step 4: Tap to Settle

Use your finger, a damp sponge, or a fluffy brush to gently tap over the freckles. This softens the pigment and makes them melt into the skin. If they fade too much, layer again, but always build gradually.

Step 5: Finish With Glow

A cream blush, a sweep of bronzer, and a touch of highlighter can help everything blend together naturally. Freckles love a dewy finish—think sun-drenched rather than matte.

Bonus Tips:

• Set with translucent powder if you’re oily or wearing them for hours.
• Avoid placing freckles in perfect lines—they should follow your natural bone structure.
• Less is more—it’s easier to add than to fix overdone freckles.

Whether you’re channeling that no-makeup makeup vibe or just want to switch up your look, faux freckles are a fun, flattering detail anyone can pull off. Just keep them soft, scattered, and subtle, and you’re good to glow.