How to Do Fake Freckles: 6 Tips From Makeup Artists

Want to learn how to do fake freckles and recreate Anne Curtis’s natural, fresh-faced look? There’s just something about her glow that gives off that enviable “just came back from the beach” vibe.

If you weren’t born with freckles or you simply want more, the good news is you can fake them. All Things Beauty asked long-time makeup artists Katch Mejias and Gex Garcia to share their best tips on how to do the fake freckles makeup trend right. Keep reading for some expert tips.

“Skin prep is necessary for your freckles to stay on the whole day,” says Gex. Applying skincare before your base also gives you that glow-from-within radiance like Anne Curtis’s.

“Without proper prepping, your base makeup also won’t be able to adhere to the skin smoothly,” adds Katch. Start with a clean face and use a toner to remove remaining impurities and excess oil. Then, apply your skincare for daytime – a serum, moisturizer, or cream, depending on your skin type.

“Each area of the face has different concerns that need to be addressed in this step,” explains Katch. Do you have dry, flaky skin? Apply heavy hydrating cream on the rough patches. If you have an oily t-zone, use a matte primer to control the extra shine.

Next, apply sunscreen. POND'S UV Bright Sunscreen has a lightweight formula that offers UV defense and skin repair in one. It also contains SPF 50 PA ++++ and Gluta-Niacinamide to help fade dark spots. Another option is POND'S UV Hydrate Sunscreen, which has SPF 50 PA ++++ and Hyaluron. It instantly nourishes and protects the skin, helping you achieve a fresh, glass-like finish with no white cast.

“Remember to allow every layer of product to absorb and dry before moving on to the next step,” Katch advises. Don’t rush the process.

The goal is to achieve a close-to-natural base since freckles are characteristic of a bare face. “Choosing the right products is the first step,” says Gex. She recommends a mattifying primer and a tinted moisturizer “for a skin-feel look.” Then, make sure to even out and buff the products well for a seamless base. “This helps make the faux freckles more visible,” she adds.

Uneasy about not wearing foundation? “A lightweight, tinted moisturizer or BB cream with sheer coverage can work,” suggests Katch.

If you don’t want to create a DIY formula, Gex suggests checking out products made specifically for creating faux freckles, like freckle pens. Or you can also use eyebrow makeup tools, like a light brown eyebrow pen.

Pro tip: “Pick a color that complements your skin tone. When in doubt, err on the lighter side when making faux freckles,” says Gex. Start by drawing little dots across your cheeks and nose. Then, dab and blend with your finger to lightly fade the spots.

“The goal isn’t to make the spots look perfect – that will look fake,” says Katch. “The more uneven they are in size and color intensity, the more natural they will look.”

Happy with your faux freckles? Don't forget to set your makeup. “Allow the specks to dry completely before setting with a light translucent powder,” says Katch. “Spritz an alcohol-based setting spray for a budge-proof finish.”

“The key is to not look overly done because you want a no-makeup makeup look,” says Gex. First, pick a peachy or a natural tone for your blush. This will give you a tickled pink glow as if you’ve just spent hours under the sun.

“For the brows, a brow gel can give you a polished appearance without making them too dark or looking too made up,” Gex adds. Lastly, use a lip tint or gloss for juicy puckers. “Choose a pink shade or a natural hue that matches the color of your lips.”

Now that you’re set with these expert tips on how to do fake freckles, all that’s left is to try them out and have fun with the process. Keep experimenting until you’re ready to make the faux freckles makeup your signature look.