Faux freckles have become a major makeup trend, offering a sun-kissed look without the need for actual sun exposure. This trend is perfect for those who want to embrace the trendy, natural look but haven’t been blessed with natural freckles. While social media is filled with creative methods like using liquid bronzer and even broccoli, there are simpler and more practical ways to achieve that flawless, faux freckle look.
Before diving into the makeup techniques, let’s understand what causes freckles. Freckles are small, brown spots on the skin that appear due to sun exposure. They typically appear on areas like the face, arms, elbows, knees, and ears – areas most exposed to the sun’s rays. These spots are caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. Freckles are more common in people with light skin and hair, especially those with red hair. While sun exposure is the primary trigger, genetics also play a role in freckle development.
Faux Freckle Techniques
For those who want to embrace the freckle trend without relying on genetics or sun exposure, here are several methods to create faux freckles:
1. The Broccoli Method (Not Recommended)
Social media has seen a trend of using broccoli to create fake freckles. The method involves dipping a broccoli floret in liquid bronzer or dark concealer and applying it to the face. However, this method is not recommended. Broccoli is better suited for your plate or smoothie than as a makeup tool. It’s messy, not very effective, and can be unhygienic.
2. Drawing on Faux Freckles with a Pencil
Using a freckling pencil, a golden bronze kohl or eyeliner, or an eyebrow pencil matching your skin tone is a simple and effective way to create faux freckles. Simply draw small dots in a random pattern on the areas you want to highlight.
3. Spraying on Freckles with Setting Spray
You can repurpose a setting spray (preferably in a light brown shade) to create faux freckles. Hold the can about five to ten centimeters away from your face and spray very lightly, keeping your eyes closed. It might be easier to ask a friend to help you with this method. Apply a hint of color in a dotted pattern to create a natural look. Remember to protect your clothes with a towel or hairdressing cape to avoid staining.
4. Using a Toothbrush
This is probably the easiest method to create natural-looking faux freckles. Simply dip a clean toothbrush in liquid bronzer or concealer, tap off any excess, and gently dab the brush onto your skin in a random pattern. If you make a mistake, you can easily wash it off.
5. Self-Tanner for Longer-Lasting Freckles
Some freckle pencils contain self-tanner, which makes the freckles last longer (about two days) and gives them a beautiful shimmer when exposed to sunlight. If you have self-tanner and a scalp brush at home, you can try this method. Prepare a small amount of self-tanner in a bowl, dip the brush tips in it, and apply multiple thin layers to the desired areas (nose, chin, forehead, cheeks). Dab the dots with your fingertips and repeat the process the next day. Continue until you achieve the desired intensity, keeping your eyes closed.
6. Semi-Permanent Faux Freckles with Henna
Henna freckles offer a semi-permanent solution that cannot be washed off. However, it’s best to try the temporary methods first to get comfortable with application. Once you’re more experienced, you can try henna. Before applying henna, always test a small area of skin to check for allergies. Choose a henna dye that’s skin-friendly and suitable for your skin type. The color should be slightly darker than your natural skin tone (one to one and a half shades). After preparing the henna, wash your face and apply small dots to your face using a thin brush or toothpick. Leave it on for 30 minutes (less than the packaging instructions to avoid overly dark freckles), check the intensity, and then rinse off. The henna freckles should last for about one to two weeks.
How Long Do Faux Freckles Last?
The longevity of faux freckles depends on the method you choose. Pencil, spray, or bronzer-based freckles can be removed with water and makeup remover in the evening. Henna freckles last much longer, fading naturally over time. Self-tanner freckles should fade after a few days. It’s best to experiment with the wash-off methods before trying the longer-lasting options.
