There’s something timeless about dewy skin. That lit-from-within radiance has become one of beauty’s most enduring trends—universally flattering, endlessly versatile, and always in style. It’s the kind of glow that makes you look like you’ve just returned from a brisk morning walk, sipped a tall glass of water, or woken up from the best nap of your life.
Unlike matte finishes, which can sometimes lean flat or heavy, dewy makeup celebrates the skin’s natural vitality. It’s less about masking imperfections and more about enhancing what’s already there. But here’s the secret: achieving that healthy gleam isn’t about one magic product. It’s about layering techniques—from skincare to the finishing mist—that work together to reflect light and keep skin hydrated.
If you’ve ever wondered how to achieve that fresh, youthful glow, here’s a step-by-step guide to perfecting the dewy makeup look.
Step 1: Start with Skin
Dewy makeup begins long before foundation touches your face. Healthy, hydrated skin is the canvas that allows products to shine—literally. That’s why a skin-first approach, often inspired by Korean beauty rituals, is essential.
Begin with a gentle cleanser to wash away impurities without stripping your skin. A few times a week, add a gentle exfoliant to remove dead cells and help products glide on more evenly. The smoother the base, the more natural your glow will appear.
Next, layer in hydration. A serum rich in hyaluronic acid or niacinamide is ideal, locking in moisture while plumping the skin. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer that adds bounce without greasiness. And, of course, never skip sunscreen—it’s the ultimate defense against dullness and damage.
Think of this routine as the behind-the-scenes prep work that makes the dewy finish possible. Without it, even the best foundation or highlighter can fall flat.
Step 2: Prime for Radiance
Primer is often thought of as a longevity tool, but for a dewy look, it’s also about radiance. Today’s glow-boosting primers blur imperfections while infusing the skin with a soft, luminous sheen. Some even contain micro-light-reflecting particles that give just the right amount of sheen without veering into glitter territory.
Apply primer after your skincare but before foundation, focusing on the high points of your face—cheekbones, forehead, and chin. If you’re prone to oiliness, consider pairing a mattifying primer on the T-zone with a radiant one elsewhere. This balance keeps shine in check while ensuring the glow stays intentional.
Step 3: Choose the Right Foundation
The foundation you choose can make or break the look. For that coveted glow, skip matte or heavy formulas, which can mute the skin’s natural vitality. Instead, reach for liquid or cream foundations labeled “radiant,” “luminous,” or “dewy.”
These formulas work with light, not against it, giving the skin a healthy gleam. Apply with a damp sponge or soft brush for an airbrushed, seamless finish. Start with a light layer and build coverage only where needed—you want your skin to shine through, not disappear under product.
For an extra boost, look for foundations infused with skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, or glycerin. They hydrate as they perfect, ensuring your glow lasts all day.
Step 4: Highlight with Intention
If foundation is the canvas, highlighter is the finishing touch. But when it comes to dewy skin, the key is subtlety. Instead of powder formulas, which can sit on top of the skin, opt for cream or liquid highlighters that melt seamlessly into your complexion.
Dab a small amount onto the high points of your face—the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, your brow bone, and just above the lips. Blend with fingers or a sponge until it looks like light is naturally catching your skin.
Color choice matters here too: pearly shades flatter fair complexions, champagne tones work well for medium skin, and golden or bronze hues enhance deeper tones beautifully. Remember, less is more. You’re aiming for soft radiance, not disco-ball sparkle.
The Finishing Touches
To lock everything in while keeping the glow intact, finish with a hydrating setting spray. Unlike powders that can dull luminosity, these mists refresh makeup, soften edges, and add a final burst of radiance.
A touch of cream blush on the apples of your cheeks or a glossy balm on the lips can also complement the look, keeping the overall effect cohesive and fresh.
Dewy Makeup as a Mood
Ultimately, dewy makeup isn’t just a trend—it’s a vibe. It’s about skin that looks alive, makeup that feels effortless, and confidence that shines through. The look works across seasons, whether you’re pairing it with bare, sun-kissed skin in summer or using it to revive a winter complexion starved of light.
By approaching each step—from cleansing to highlighter—with intention, you’ll find that glow isn’t something you fake. It’s something you enhance. And when done right, it feels like the healthiest beauty statement you can make.
