ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE | MAKE-UP
Article Published on: 18TH JUNE 2024 | www.demodemagazine.com
Achieving luminous, dewy skin has become one of the most coveted looks in the beauty world. This radiant, fresh-faced appearance is synonymous with youthfulness, health, and vitality. While genetics and skincare play a significant role, makeup techniques can also be harnessed to create this glowing look. Here’s an in-depth guide to achieving luminous skin with makeup, from understanding the basics to mastering advanced techniques.
Understanding Dewy Skin
Dewy skin is characterized by a radiant, slightly moist appearance that mimics the natural glow of hydrated, healthy skin. Unlike a matte finish, which is smooth and flat, dewy skin reflects light, giving the complexion a soft, luminous sheen. This look can be achieved through a combination of skincare and makeup products that enhance the skin’s natural radiance.
Skincare Foundation
Achieving dewy skin starts with a solid skincare routine. Well-hydrated skin is the key to creating a luminous base. Incorporate hydrating products such as hyaluronic acid serums, moisturizers, and facial oils to ensure your skin is plump and hydrated. Exfoliating regularly to remove dead skin cells is also crucial, as this allows makeup to sit more smoothly on the skin.
Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
Exfoliation: Use a mild exfoliant 2-3 times a week to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a fresh layer of skin.
Hydration: Apply a hydrating serum, such as one containing hyaluronic acid, to attract and retain moisture.
Moisturizing: Use a rich, nourishing moisturizer to lock in hydration and create a supple base.
Sun Protection: Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect the skin from UV damage, which can dull the complexion over time.
Prepping the Skin
Once your skincare routine is in place, prepping the skin with the right products is essential. This step involves using primers and other base products that enhance the skin’s luminosity and provide a smooth canvas for makeup application.
Primer: Choose a hydrating primer with illuminating properties. Primers with light-reflecting particles can give the skin an instant glow while ensuring that makeup stays in place.
Facial Oils: For extra hydration and glow, mix a few drops of facial oil into your primer or apply it directly to the high points of your face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, cupid’s bow).
Foundation and Base Products
The choice of foundation and how you apply it plays a crucial role in achieving dewy skin. Opt for lightweight, hydrating formulas that provide coverage while still allowing the skin to shine through.
Dewy Foundations: Look for foundations labeled as “dewy,” “luminous,” or “radiant.” These formulas often contain light-reflecting pigments and hydrating ingredients that enhance the skin’s natural glow.
Tinted Moisturizers: If you prefer lighter coverage, tinted moisturizers or BB creams are excellent options. They even out the skin tone while imparting a natural, dewy finish.
Application: Use a damp makeup sponge or a stippling brush to apply foundation. This method ensures a sheer, even application that enhances the skin’s natural texture.
Highlighting and Illuminating
Highlighters are the cornerstone of a dewy makeup look. They accentuate the high points of the face, creating a lit-from-within glow.
Liquid and Cream Highlighters: These formulas blend seamlessly into the skin, providing a natural, radiant finish. Apply them to the high points of your face: the tops of the cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, the brow bones, and the cupid’s bow.
Powder Highlighters: For a more intense glow, powder highlighters can be layered over liquid or cream products. Use a light hand and a fluffy brush to dust the highlighter onto the desired areas.
Application Tips: For a subtle, natural glow, use your fingers or a damp sponge to tap the highlighter into the skin. This technique helps to melt the product into the skin for a seamless finish.
Blush and Bronzer
Blush and bronzer add dimension and warmth to the face, complementing the dewy look.
Cream Blush: Cream blushes are ideal for a dewy finish. They blend easily into the skin and provide a fresh, natural flush. Apply cream blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards for a lifted effect.
Liquid or Cream Bronzer: To add warmth and dimension, use a liquid or cream bronzer. Apply it to the hollows of your cheeks, the temples, and the jawline, blending well to avoid harsh lines.
Setting the Look
Setting your makeup is crucial to ensure it lasts throughout the day without compromising the dewy finish.
Setting Spray: Opt for a hydrating setting spray with a dewy finish. Mist it over your face to set your makeup and add an extra layer of luminosity.
Avoid Heavy Powders: Traditional setting powders can mattify the skin, which is counterproductive to a dewy look. If you need to set certain areas (such as the T-zone), use a very light dusting of a finely milled translucent powder.
Finishing Touches
The final touches to your makeup can enhance the dewy effect and pull the entire look together.
Eyes: For a cohesive look, keep the eye makeup soft and shimmery. Use light, reflective eyeshadows and a touch of highlighter on the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes.
Lips: Opt for glossy or satin-finish lip products. Glosses, balms, and creamy lipsticks enhance the overall glow and complement dewy skin.
Maintenance and Refreshing
To maintain a dewy look throughout the day, carry a hydrating facial mist with you. A quick spritz can refresh your makeup and revive the glow without disturbing the underlying products.
Conclusion
Achieving luminous, dewy skin with makeup is a blend of proper skincare, thoughtful product selection, and precise application techniques. By focusing on hydration, using light-reflecting products, and employing the right tools, you can create a radiant, glowing complexion that exudes health and vitality. Whether you’re going for a subtle, everyday glow or a more intense, radiant look, these tips will help you master the art of dewy skin. Embrace the dewy trend and let your skin shine with a fresh, youthful luminosity.