Grunge makeup is all about embracing an effortlessly messy, lived-in look that exudes edgy charm. Whether you're channeling 90s rock vibes or modernizing the aesthetic, this guide will help you master the art of grunge makeup for any occasion.
1. The Base: Fresh and Flawless with a Hint of Imperfection
Grunge makeup starts with a natural-looking base.
Avoid heavy foundation and opt for something lightweight, like the NARS Sheer Glow Foundation, which provides a dewy finish while letting your skin breathe.
Skip the contour and instead add a hint of warmth to your cheeks with a neutral blush.
2. Smoky, Smudged Eyes: The Heart of Grunge
Grunge eye makeup is all about a smoky, smudged, "I slept in my eyeliner" look.
Start by lining your upper and lower lash lines with a black kohl pencil like the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Perversion.
Smudge the edges with your finger or a small brush for a lived-in effect.
For eyeshadow, use neutral, smoky shades from a palette like the Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette.
Focus on deep browns and grays for your lid and blend outward for a soft haze.
Add a touch of shimmer to your inner corners with a champagne or silver shade for contrast.
Finish with a few coats of volumizing mascara.
3. Bold Brows, Lightly Defined
Keep your brows natural and slightly messy to match the undone vibe of grunge.
Use a brow gel to add texture and hold, or lightly fill in sparse areas with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz for a more polished look.
Avoid over-sculpting; the goal is to keep it casual.
4. Lips: Dark, Moody, and Statement-Making
The quintessential grunge lip is dark, bold, and slightly imperfect.
For a classic 90s look, choose a matte lipstick like MAC Matte Lipstick in Diva (a deep burgundy).
For a more modern twist, try a glossy finish with the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb in Hot Chocolit, a deep brown hue that feels effortlessly chic.
To complete the grunge vibe, apply your lipstick and then blot it lightly for a slightly worn-in effect.
5. Skin Accents: Barely There or Purposefully Highlighted
Grunge makeup often avoids heavy highlighting or contouring, but you can add a subtle glow for a modern touch.
Use a natural-looking highlighter on your cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose.
For an edgier grunge feel, skip the highlighter altogether and keep your skin matte and raw.
6. Nails: Dark and Edgy
Grunge-inspired makeup isn’t complete without nails to match.
Opt for deep hues like black, dark plum, or forest green.
Try OPI Nail Lacquer in Lincoln Park After Dark for a classic grunge vibe.
7. Add the Finishing Touches
Grunge is all about personalization, so don’t be afraid to add your flair.
Play with messy eyeliner wings, mismatched eyeshadow tones, or even a touch of glitter to modernize the look.
Use temporary tattoos or fake piercings to enhance the rebellious edge if you’re going for a full-on grunge vibe.
With these tips and products, you can achieve a grunge makeup look that’s bold, effortless, and undeniably cool.
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