With androgyny being the look of the season, when it comes to makeup, less is more. A natural, fresh looking face is the new smoky eye. Runways are going back to the basics—drag queen make up is definitely out! It’s the perfect transition from summer to the rainy season.

If you’re new to makeup or just want to start anew, this season is the perfect time to start building your collection.  Once you have these in your beauty stash, it’ll be easy to pile on everything else. Celebrity makeup artist Tin Albano shares which tools are perfect to achieve that no-makeup-makeup look.

MAC Concealer
It’s perfect for hiding those dark circles. But you wouldn’t want to use too much because you want to look fresh and glowing—not made up. “MAC’s consistency is just right,” Albano says. “And there’s a shade for every complexion.” Apply concealer using a blending brush or a concealer brush.

Powder
“Only apply where concealer was used to seal it. Any will do, depending on your preference. Make sure it’s translucent or matches your complexion.”  Pat it lightly, and we do mean lightly. Kabuki makeup, chic as the tradition may be, does not translate well to real life.

Benefit Benetint or Chacha Tint
“It gives you that natural-looking flush, a healthy glow.” This tint serves a dual purpose: you can use on your lips too! And who can say no to a 2-for-1 deal? “It’s not sticky and looks so natural if you want that ‘skin’ look.”

Shu Uemura Hard Eyebrow Pencil
Groomed and nicely shaped eyebrows frame the face. “Just apply enough; not too much or it will look to harsh. Easy to use, I use a spooly (or clear mascara wand) to blend and get rid of extra product on your eyebrow.”

Maybelline Mascara
Be alive, alert, and awake with the perfect mascara. Albano doesn’t recommend running off to buying name-brand mascaras, unless you have the budget for it.  “Buying pricey mascaras is sometimes not worth it because you have to dispose of them after 6 months.”

Collage by April Manucot