By Audrey Tan

As someone who values efficiency when getting ready, I’ve long embraced the “clean girl” aesthetic. So, imagine my excitement now that it’s trending on TikTok with almost 2 billion views and countless tutorials to help you look the part!

And if the TikTok girlies are raving about it, you know it’s worth a closer look. So what is it all about?

What Is The “Clean Girl” Aesthetic?

This trend is all about effortless beauty and minimalist style. It’s the art of looking polished yet natural, with glowing skin, sleek hair, and understated fashion (think fashion basics!). “Clean”, in this instance, means focusing on achieving healthy, glowing skin rather than hiding it under different makeup products. 

However, this trend is more than just aesthetic—it’s a philosophy of doing more with less, celebrating natural beauty, and embracing self-confidence. 

Minimal And Simplicity As The Ultimate Statement

In an era of elaborate beauty routines and over-the-top fashion, this trend stands out as a celebration of minimalism. It’s not about neglecting effort but streamlining it to enhance your features in a way that feels true to yourself.

And by being true to yourself, you will exude confidence like no other without relying on layers of makeup or accessories. 

Achieving the “Clean Girl” Look

Skincare

At the heart of this aesthetic is healthy, glowing skin. With minimal makeup involved, a solid skincare routine ensures your natural beauty takes centre stage. You don’t need an elaborate 7-step skincare routine to achieve this, just a few basic, straightforward steps:

  • Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser twice daily to remove impurities and create a fresh canvas.
  • Hydrate: Keep your skin plump and glowing with a moisturiser suited to your skin type.
  • Protect: Never skip sunscreen during the day to shield your skin from UV damage and maintain a youthful look.
  • Optional boost: Incorporate a serum tailored to your skin’s needs, like hyaluronic acid for hydration or vitamin C for brightness.

Hair

Sleek buns, low ponytails, and soft waves are signature styles of this look. The goal is to look put together without appearing overdone. Better yet, let your natural hair do its thing so you can keep it clean and healthy with basic hair care: 

  • Cleansing as needed with a shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type.
  • Use a hairdryer on low heat to restore natural shine while keeping the scalp healthy.
  • Apply hair oil or serum for extra shine and frizz control.

Wardrobe

You don’t have to overhaul your entire wardrobe but think about curating essentials that make you feel polished without trying too hard. Some tips for building a “clean” wardrobe:

  • Build a capsule wardrobe with quality basics such as a pair of tailored trousers, a basic black dress, straight-legged jeans, well-fitted tops, white button-downs, and a structured blazer.
  • Opt for neutral colours like black, white, beige, and soft pastels.
  • Go for pieces that accentuate your natural body shape. 
  • Avoid patterns and prints.
  • Prioritise comfort and functionality.
  • Accessorise with muted pieces that complement what you’re wearing without overpowering it.

Makeup

Less is more when it comes to ”clean girl” makeup, and what you use should enhance your existing features rather than mask them. The goal is to look fresh-faced and radiant:

  • Achieve an even complexion with a tinted moisturiser or BB cream.
  • Cream blushes give a healthy, natural-looking flush to the cheeks.
  • Lip tints enhance your natural lip colour while providing hydration for suppleness.
  • Use a non-sparkly highlighter to accentuate the cheek and brow bones.

Wellness Tips to Glow From Within 

I personally love this trend because, beyond outer appearances, it’s about taking a holistic approach to feeling good from the inside out. To get the healthy, fresh look, you need to nourish the body from within for the goodness to radiate outwards. 

Here’s how:

  • Stay hydrated to keep the body functioning optimally; this also keeps the skin plump.
  • Eat more whole, nutrient-rich foods and limit processed, fast foods.
  • Remember to give your body a break by prioritising rest and sleep.
  • Move your body daily, whether it’s a 5-minute stretch or a walk around the block, to promote healthy circulation and give yourself a boost of feel-good hormones.
  • Practice mindfulness, gratitude, and self-love to cultivate inner peace and confidence.

At its core, the “clean girl” aesthetic is a response to a culture of excess.

It offers a refreshing alternative in a world dominated by fast fashion, elaborate routines, and fleeting trends. This aesthetic values authenticity, sustainability, and simplicity, encouraging you to embrace your natural beauty and live with intention.

It speaks to anyone who values efficiency and style. It’s for those who want to feel good in their own skin without spending hours on maintenance.

Ultimately, it is a reminder that beauty doesn’t have to be complicated—it can be as simple as embracing the best version of yourself.