Have you ever admired the glowing, radiant skin of celebrities on the red carpet or models in beauty campaigns? The secret behind their luminous complexions is often a dewy makeup look. This trend has taken the beauty world by storm, with people of all ages striving to achieve that fresh, youthful glow. But what exactly is dewy makeup, and how can you master it without looking like you’ve just stepped out of a sauna?
As a makeup enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with different products and techniques to achieve the perfect dewy finish. Through trial and error, I’ve discovered that creating a dewy makeup look is all about finding the right balance between hydration and luminosity. It’s not just about piling on the highlighter; it’s about prepping your skin, choosing the right formulas, and blending seamlessly for a natural, lit-from-within glow.
Dewy makeup has become increasingly popular in recent years, with trends like “glass skin” and “dolphin skin” dominating social media. The appeal of this look lies in its ability to make the skin appear more youthful, healthy, and radiant. By incorporating hydrating skincare products and luminous makeup formulas, you can achieve a dewy complexion that looks fresh and natural, rather than greasy or shiny.
In this article, we’ll dive into the secrets of achieving a flawless dewy makeup look. From prepping your skin with the right skincare routine to choosing the best foundation, blush, and highlighter formulas, I’ll share my tips and tricks for creating a glowing complexion that lasts all day. Whether you’re a makeup beginner or a seasoned pro, mastering the dewy makeup trend is easier than you might think. Let’s get started on your journey to radiant, luminous skin!
Key Takeaways:
- Dewy makeup creates a youthful, radiant complexion
- Proper skin preparation is key to achieving a dewy finish
- Choose lightweight, luminous foundation formulas
- Cream and liquid blushes provide a natural flush
- Highlighters add a subtle glow to the high points of the face
- Blending is crucial for a seamless, natural-looking finish
- Setting sprays help maintain the dewy look throughout the day
Prep Your Skin for a Radiant Base
To achieve a dewy makeup look, proper skin prep is essential. By taking the time to exfoliate, hydrate, and nourish your skin, you create the perfect canvas for a radiant, glowing complexion.
Exfoliate to Remove Dead Skin Cells
Begin your skin prep routine by gently exfoliating to remove dead skin cells and reveal a smooth, even surface. This step allows your skincare products to penetrate more effectively, ensuring optimal hydration and nourishment. Choose a gentle exfoliant suitable for your skin type, such as a physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid or lactic acid.
Hydrate with Serums and Moisturizers
After exfoliating, it’s crucial to replenish your skin’s moisture levels. Apply a hydrating serum containing hyaluronic acid, which can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, drawing moisture into the skin. Follow up with a rich, nourishing moisturizer to lock in hydration. Look for products containing ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and shea butter, which help maintain a healthy skin barrier and promote a dewy complexion.
| Product | Key Ingredient | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| L’Oréal Paris RevitaLift Derm Intensives Micro Hyaluronic Acid + Ceramides Line-Plumping Water Cream | Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides | Plumps fine lines, intensely hydrates |
| L’Oréal Paris True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum | Hyaluronic Acid | Provides sheer coverage with hydration |
Use Facial Oils for Extra Nourishment
For an extra boost of nourishment and dewiness, consider incorporating a facial oil into your skin prep routine. Facial oils help to balance the skin’s natural oil production, provide essential fatty acids, and create a healthy, luminous glow. If you have dry skin, mix a few drops of face oil into your moisturizer for added hydration. Those with oily skin may prefer a lighter, non-comedogenic oil to achieve a dewy look without excessive shine.
“Proper skin prep is the key to achieving a flawless, dewy makeup look. By exfoliating, hydrating, and nourishing your skin, you create the perfect base for your makeup to glide on smoothly and last throughout the day.” – Celebrity Makeup Artist
Remember, the key to a dewy makeup look lies in the skin prep. By taking the time to exfoliate, hydrate with serums and moisturizers, and nourish with facial oils, you set the stage for a radiant, glowing complexion that will shine through your makeup.
Choose the Right Foundation Formula
When it comes to achieving a dewy makeup look, selecting the perfect foundation formula is key. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the right one for your skin type and desired finish. However, by understanding your preferences and the different formulations on the market, you can easily create a radiant, glowing complexion.
Opt for Lightweight, Luminous Foundations
For a dewy finish, look for lightweight foundation formulas that enhance your natural radiance without feeling heavy or greasy on the skin. These foundations often contain hydrating ingredients and light-reflecting particles that create a luminous effect. Some top picks for dewy foundations include:
- Nars Sheer Glow Foundation
- Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint
- Bare Minerals Barepro Powder Foundation
When choosing a foundation, consider your skin type and coverage preferences. Cream formulations are ideal for dry or mature skin, while powder foundations can help control oil. For a natural, dewy look, opt for sheer to medium coverage that allows your freckles to show through, while full coverage can conceal blemishes and hyperpigmentation.
| Foundation Finish | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Radiant | Dewy, glowing skin | Dry or mature skin |
| Natural | Seamless, balanced skin | All skin types |
| Semi-matte | Velvety, shine-free skin | Oily or combination skin |
Mix Face Oils into Your Foundation for Added Glow
To amplify the dewy effect of your foundation, consider mixing a few drops of face oil into your foundation before applying. This technique adds extra hydration and creates a beautiful, lit-from-within glow. Some popular face oils for this purpose include:
- Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil
- Biossance Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil
- Kiehl’s Daily Reviving Concentrate
“The key to a dewy foundation look is to create a hydrated, luminous base that enhances your natural radiance. Opt for lightweight, moisturizing formulas and don’t be afraid to mix in a few drops of face oil for an extra glow boost.”
Remember, the perfect foundation shade should seamlessly match your skin tone and undertone. To determine your undertone, try the white paper test, observe your skin’s reaction to the sun, or analyze the color of your veins. When in doubt, test three shades closest to your skin tone along your jawline to find the most natural match.
Blend Your Base Seamlessly
To achieve a flawless, dewy complexion, the key is in the blending technique. Using a damp beauty sponge, like the iconic Beautyblender Makeup Sponge, ensures a seamless application of your foundation and concealer. This method delivers a more natural finish compared to using brushes or fingers, allowing your skin’s natural radiance to shine through.
When it comes to concealing imperfections, patience is a virtue. After applying your concealer, let it sit for a moment before blending. This allows the product to dry down slightly, striking the perfect balance between coverage and luminosity. For a “less is more” approach to under-eye concealing, try this professional trick:
- Apply a small amount of concealer to the heel of your palm.
- Using a fluffy brush, buff the concealer into your hand to warm it up and create a sheer consistency.
- Gently swipe the brush underneath and around your eyes, blending the concealer seamlessly for an incredibly natural finish.
“The beauty sponge is my go-to tool for achieving a dewy, skin-like finish. It effortlessly blends foundation and concealer, leaving the skin looking naturally radiant.” – Celebrity Makeup Artist, Lisa Eldridge
Remember, the goal is to enhance your skin’s natural beauty, not mask it. By taking the time to blend your base properly with a damp beauty sponge, you’ll achieve a dewy complexion that looks effortless and fresh, as if you’re radiating from within.
Add Depth and Dimension with Bronzer
Adding depth and dimension to your dewy base is the key to achieving a naturally sculpted look. Bronzers are essential for creating a sun-kissed glow and enhancing your best facial features without looking overdone. With the right techniques and products, you can effortlessly contour your face for a soft, radiant finish.
Use Cream Bronzers for a Natural, Sun-Kissed Look
Cream bronzers are the perfect choice for achieving a natural, sun-kissed look that seamlessly blends into your skin. Unlike matte contour products, bronzers have warm tones and a subtle shimmer that create a soft contour effect. When selecting a bronzer, opt for shades that are not heavily loaded with shimmer to maintain a balanced highlight and depth in the contour areas.
Soft contouring helps to add tone to the face, define cheekbones, and jawline, providing a subtly sculpted appearance instead of a heavy contoured look.
Some recommended bronzers for a golden bronze look include:
- RMS Beauty’s Buriti Bronzer
- Tower 28’s Bronzino Illuminating Bronzer in Gold Coast
- The Sun Show Glowy Warmth Bronzer in Beachy from Kosas
Apply Bronzer to the High Points of Your Face
To apply bronzer effectively, start with a clean, moisturized face. Use brushes like the ANISA Crescent Contour Brush for precise application and the ANISA Buffing Bronzer Brush for seamless blending. Apply the bronzer in circular motions, focusing on the temples, beneath the cheekbones, along the hairline, and across the jawline. This technique helps to avoid harsh lines and creates a natural, sculpted appearance.
| Skin Type | Bronzer Type | Application Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Bare skin or minimal foundation | Cream or powder bronzer | Directly apply and blend with brush or sponge |
| Over foundation | Powder bronzer | Lightly dust foundation with powder before applying bronzer |
| Over powder | Cream bronzer | Use “marrying” technique: apply cream bronzer after powder and blend with sponge or brush |
By incorporating bronzer into your dewy makeup routine, you can effortlessly add warmth, definition, and dimension to your complexion. Embrace the power of soft contouring to enhance your natural beauty and achieve a radiant, sun-kissed glow.
Highlight Your Features for a Dewy Finish
To achieve a luminous, dewy complexion, strategic highlighting is key. By placing a cream or liquid highlighter on the high points of your face, you can create a natural-looking glow that catches the light and enhances your features. The right highlighter can make all the difference in achieving a fresh, radiant appearance.
Choose Cream or Liquid Highlighters for a Natural Sheen
When selecting a highlighter for a dewy finish, opt for cream or liquid formulas that blend seamlessly into the skin. These types of highlighters provide a subtle, natural-looking sheen without appearing overly glittery or metallic. Some popular options include:
- Glossier Haloscope: This cream highlighter stick delivers a dewy, glossy finish that looks like a natural glow from within.
- RMS Beauty Living Luminizer: A cult-favorite cream highlighter that offers a sheer, lit-from-within radiance.
- L’Oréal Paris Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer: This liquid highlighter can be mixed with your foundation or worn alone for a subtle, dewy finish.
“I love using a cream highlighter for a dewy look because it melts into the skin and looks so natural. It’s like you’re glowing from the inside out!” – Celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta
Apply Highlighter to Your Cheekbones, Cupid’s Bow, and Nose Bridge
To achieve a flattering, dewy glow, focus on applying your highlighter to the high points of your face. These areas naturally catch the light and create a luminous effect when highlighted. Use your fingertips or a small brush to apply the product to:
- The tops of your cheekbones
- Your Cupid’s bow (the dip above your upper lip)
- The bridge of your nose
- The inner corners of your eyes (for an extra brightening effect)
Blend the highlighter seamlessly into your skin using a damp beauty sponge or your fingers for a natural, glowing finish. Remember, a little goes a long way with cream and liquid highlighters, so start with a small amount and build up the intensity as desired.
| Product | Formula | Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Glossier Haloscope | Cream Stick | Dewy, Glossy |
| RMS Beauty Living Luminizer | Cream | Sheer, Luminous |
| L’Oréal Paris Lumi Glotion | Liquid | Subtle, Dewy |
By incorporating a cream or liquid highlighter into your makeup routine and applying it strategically to the high points of your face, you can achieve a stunning, dewy complexion that looks naturally radiant and glowing.
Achieve the Perfect Dewy Makeup Look
To achieve the perfect dewy makeup look, it’s essential to combine the right products and techniques while considering your individual skin type. By tailoring your routine to your specific needs, you can create a radiant, glowing complexion that looks natural and fresh.
Combine the Right Products and Techniques
When aiming for a dewy finish, opt for products with luminous or hydrating formulas. Look for foundations like the Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Foundation, which comes in 24 shades to suit a wide range of skin tones. Pair this with a liquid highlighter such as the L’Oréal Paris True Match Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer for a subtle, pearlescent sheen.
To ensure your dewy makeup lasts all day, start with a hydrating primer like the award-winning Hydro Grip Primer, which can provide up to 12 hours of longevity. Set your look with a hydrating spray such as the IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Setting Spray+ for up to 16 hours of dewiness.
Customize Your Routine Based on Your Skin Type
When creating a customized routine for your skin type, keep these tips in mind:
- For oily skin, use a mattifying primer on areas prone to shine and set with a light dusting of translucent powder to control excess oil while maintaining a dewy finish.
- For dry skin, incorporate hydrating serums and face oils into your skincare routine and mix a few drops of oil into your foundation for added glow.
- For combination skin, focus on balancing your skin’s needs by using mattifying products on oily areas and hydrating products on dry patches.
| Product | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Bionic Bronzer | Comes in several shades to suit a wide range of skin tones; 90% natural formula with ingredients like mushroom extracts and hyaluronic acid |
| Bionic Blush | Available in four shades for different skin tones; won’t settle into fine lines or get patchy on oily skin; 90% natural formula |
| Maybelline Lifter Plump Lip Plumping Gloss | Offers eight different shades for varied lip color options while maintaining a glossy finish |
| Hydro Grip Set + Refresh Spray | Helps maintain a glowy makeup look all day long |
By experimenting with different products and application techniques, you can find the perfect combination that enhances your natural radiance without appearing greasy. Remember, achieving the perfect dewy makeup look is all about balance and customization based on your unique skin type and preferences.
Set Your Makeup While Maintaining Dewiness
After achieving the perfect dewy base, it’s crucial to set your makeup to ensure long-lasting wear without compromising on that coveted radiant finish. When it comes to setting powder, a light hand is key. Focus on applying a small amount of translucent setting powder to areas prone to shine, such as the sides of the nose, the center of the forehead, and the chin. Avoid heavy-handed application or baking techniques, as these can quickly transform your dewy look into a matte finish.
For those with dry skin, consider skipping setting powder altogether and opting for a hydrating setting spray instead. Setting sprays infused with glycerin or hyaluronic acid can help lock in makeup while providing an extra boost of moisture to the skin. Mist the setting spray evenly across your face, holding the bottle about 8-10 inches away for optimal distribution.
Pro Tip: To maintain your dewy glow throughout the day, carry a small bottle of setting spray in your purse for quick touch-ups. A few spritzes can instantly revive and refresh your complexion, keeping you looking radiant from morning to night.
When selecting a setting powder or spray, look for formulas specifically designed to enhance and preserve a dewy finish. Finely milled powders with a subtle sheen, like the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder, can help set makeup while imparting a luminous glow. Similarly, setting sprays with a dewy finish, such as the Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist or the Morphe Continuous Setting Mist, can help you achieve that sought-after radiance.
| Product | Key Benefits | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder | Lightweight, helps control shine without a cakey finish | $39 – $48 |
| Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder | Finely milled, imparts a luminous finish | $48 – $64 |
| Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist | Hydrating, helps maintain a dewy glow | $48 – $20 (travel size) |
| Morphe Continuous Setting Mist | Fine, even mist; enhances makeup longevity | $16 – $10 (mini size) |
By using the right setting products and techniques, you can effortlessly lock in your dewy makeup look, ensuring it stays fresh and radiant throughout the day. Remember, the key is to find the perfect balance between setting your makeup and maintaining that coveted luminous finish.
Enhance Your Dewy Glow with Setting Sprays
The final step in achieving a long-lasting dewy makeup look is to lock it all in with a hydrating setting spray. These sprays not only help to extend the wear of your makeup but also provide an extra dose of moisture to keep your skin looking fresh and radiant throughout the day.
Use Hydrating Setting Sprays to Lock in Moisture
When selecting a setting spray for your dewy makeup look, opt for a hydrating formula that contains skin-loving ingredients like aloe, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients will help to plump and nourish your skin while keeping your makeup in place. The Palladio Dewy Setting Spray is an excellent choice, as it provides a burst of moisture with its hydrating blend of aloe, ensuring a dewy complexion with a luminous finish that lasts all day.
To apply your setting spray, hold the bottle at a distance of 8 to 10 inches from your face and mist evenly across your skin. The ultra-fine mist of the Palladio Dewy Setting Spray allows for even distribution, enhancing your makeup without disruption. For optimal results, use the setting spray both before and after makeup application to ensure a hydrated base and lasting wear.
Refresh Your Look Throughout the Day
In addition to locking in your makeup, hydrating setting sprays can also be used to refresh your look throughout the day. Whenever your skin feels dry or your makeup starts to look a bit dull, give yourself a quick spritz to instantly revitalize your complexion. The Palladio Dewy Setting Spray is designed to refresh makeup, providing a quick pick-me-up whenever you need it.
This setting spray is suitable for all skin types and is cruelty-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, and vegan. Its non-aerosol pump feature makes for an earth-friendly application method, delivering a dewy finish without any harsh chemicals. Simply shake the bottle well before each use for thorough mixing of the formula, and enjoy the instant skin wake-up look that two spritzes provide.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Hydrating formula with aloe | Provides a burst of moisture for a dewy complexion |
| Ultra-fine mist | Allows for even distribution across the face, enhancing makeup without disruption |
| Suitable for all skin types | Cruelty-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, and vegan formula |
| Refreshes makeup throughout the day | Provides a quick pick-me-up for a revitalized complexion |
| Non-aerosol pump feature | Earth-friendly application method for a dewy finish |
With the help of a hydrating setting spray like the Palladio Dewy Setting Spray, you can effortlessly achieve and maintain a radiant, dewy makeup look that lasts all day. This essential product ensures your makeup stays put while offering a dewy finish suitable for all-day wear, keeping your skin looking fresh, hydrated, and glowing from morning to night.
Conclusion
Achieving a dewy makeup look is an art that can be mastered by anyone, regardless of their skin type. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create a radiant complexion that looks healthy, hydrated, and naturally glowing. The key is to focus on proper skincare preparation, choose the right products, and apply them strategically to enhance your features.
Remember, the foundation of any dewy makeup look is a well-hydrated and nourished skin. Incorporate hydrating serums, moisturizers, and facial oils into your skincare routine to create a smooth, plump base for your makeup. When selecting your foundation, opt for lightweight, luminous formulas that blend seamlessly into your skin, providing a natural-looking glow.
To add depth and dimension to your dewy makeup look, use cream bronzers and blushes to create a sun-kissed and flushed appearance. Highlight your features with cream or liquid highlighters, applying them to the high points of your face for a subtle, lit-from-within radiance. Finish off your look with a dewy setting spray to lock in moisture and maintain your glowing complexion throughout the day.
With practice and experimentation, you’ll find the perfect combination of products and techniques that work best for your skin type and preferences. Embrace the dewy makeup trend and let your natural beauty shine through with a radiant complexion that exudes confidence and grace.
FAQ
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Source Links
- How to Get a Dewy Makeup Look in 5 Easy Steps | Milk Paper
- Achieve Perfect Dewy Makeup Look with These Expert Tips
- How To Get a Gorgeous Dewy Makeup Look | Makeup.com by L’Oréal
- How To Get a Dewy Makeup Look | L’Oréal Paris
- How To Create a Radiant Dewy Makeup Look
- 5 Expert Tips On Choosing The Right Foundation Shade And Formula
- Foundation Guide: Find Your Formula
- How to Achieve the “Dewy” Look—Even in Winter!
- Your 9-Step Guide to Mastering Dewy Makeup (Without Looking Sweaty)
- Soft Contouring with Bronzers – Christy Coleman
- Contour Makeup – Bronzer & Highlighter
- A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Dewy Makeup Look – Beauty Society
- How to Get a Dewy Makeup Look in 5 Easy Steps | Milk Paper
- Dewy makeup—how to nail glowing, juicy skin without looking shiny
- How to Achieve the Radiant, Dewy Fresh "Glow" Look – 303 Magazine
- Dewy Makeup Look: What Is It, How To Create It & More
- 4EVER + EVER MAKEUP SETTING SPRAY DEWY FINISH
- Create a Dewy Makeup Look in 5 Simple Steps – L Factor New York
- How To Create a Dewy Makeup Look?
- How to Achieve a Dewy Makeup Look?