Who doesn't love that fresh, radiant, just-got-back-from-a-spa look? The glowy, dewy makeup trend is all about enhancing your skin's natural luminosity while still looking polished and hydrated.
But how do you achieve that glowing-from-within look without going overboard?
Whether you're heading to a brunch date or a night out, this article will walk you through easy and practical makeup tips to get that glowy finish—without slipping into shiny or sticky territory.
Ready to glow? Let's get started!
Prep with Hydration
A radiant look begins with well-hydrated skin. If your skin is dry or uneven, no highlighter or glow product will sit right.
Use a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that gives your skin a plump, hydrated base. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and squalane, which help draw moisture into the skin and lock it in.
Recommended:
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream
• The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
For extra luminosity, consider using a hydrating serum before your moisturizer or a glowing primer with a dewy finish.
Use a Radiant Primer
To boost your glow even more, apply a radiance-boosting primer. These products often have light-reflecting particles that give your skin a subtle sheen even before makeup.
Look for primers labeled "illuminating", "glow-enhancing", or "luminous". They're great for creating that lit-from-within effect.
Recommended:
• Becca Backlight Priming Filter
• L'Oréal True Match Lumi Glotion
Apply to your high points—cheek area, brow area, and bridge of the nose—for an extra subtle glow.
Choose the Right Foundation
Avoid overly matte foundations, as they can dull your skin's natural radiance. Instead, go for a light-to-medium coverage foundation with a satin or dewy finish.
If you're concerned about shine, try a hydrating skin tint or serum foundation that lets your skin peek through while still evening out tone.
Recommended:
• NARS Sheer Glow Foundation
• Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
Blend with a damp sponge or fingers to keep the texture lightweight and fresh.
Use Liquid or Cream Products
To maintain that dewy effect, opt for cream-based or liquid blushes, bronzers, and highlighters. These products melt into the skin and create a natural sheen.
Avoid powder-based products if possible, as they can mattify the skin and reduce glow. Cream formulas also layer better with other dewy products.
Recommended:
• Glossier Cloud Paint (blush)
• Rare Beauty Liquid Luminizer (highlighter)
• Fenty Beauty Cheeks Out Cream Bronzer
Apply with fingers or a sponge, and tap gently to blend.
Highlight Strategically
Not all glow is created equal. Strategic highlighting can make all the difference between looking luminous and looking shiny.
Apply highlighter to:
• Tops of the cheek area
• Bridge (not tip) of the nose
• Inner corners of the eyes
• Cupid's bow
• Just above the brow line
Stick with pearl, beige, or soft gold tones, depending on your skin tone, to maintain a soft, skin-like glow.
Set with a Dewy Spray
Forget the heavy powders—instead, use a hydrating setting spray to lock in your makeup without sacrificing shine.
Dewy mists not only help hold your makeup in place but also blend any harsh lines or textures for a seamless finish.
Recommended:
• Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist
• Milani Make It Dewy Setting Spray
Mist your entire face from arm's length, then let it air dry. It'll revive the glow and refresh your makeup throughout the day.
Say Yes to Gloss and Balm
To match your radiant skin, go for glossy lips or tinted balms instead of matte finishes.
These add a youthful, fresh element to your look and tie together the overall dewy vibe. Choose shades that complement your natural lip color—pinks, peaches, or soft berries are great options.
Recommended:
• Tower 28 ShineOn Lip Jelly
• Laneige Lip Glowy Balm
Don't Forget the Brows and Eyes
Keep your eye makeup light and glowy too. Cream eyeshadows with a shimmer finish or soft neutrals work best with a luminous skin look.
For brows, skip the harsh lines. Use brow gels to brush and set for a fluffy, natural effect. This keeps the whole look soft and radiant.
Recommended:
• Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise Cream Eyeshadow
• Benefit Gimme Brow+
Keep Blotting Tissues Handy
Even with all the glow, you don't want to look greasy. If you're naturally more hydrated or it's a hot day, keep oil-blotting papers in your bag.
Gently press (never rub!) on areas that get shiny—like your forehead or around your nose—to control excess moisture without disrupting the glow underneath.
Expert Tip: Skincare Before Makeup
According to celebrity makeup artist Nam Vo—who's known for her signature "dewy dumpling" look—skincare is 70% of the glow. She advises layering lightweight hydrators and serums before makeup for a healthy skin barrier and better makeup payoff.
Dr. Rachel Nazarian also recommends using gentle exfoliation 1–2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and allow glow-boosting products to work more effectively.
Final Thoughts
Creating a glowy, dewy makeup look is less about piling on highlighter and more about using the right combination of skincare and complexion products to enhance your natural radiance.
Are you ready to try out the glow for yourself? Whether you want a soft daytime shine or a luminous evening glow, these tips will help you master the look. Don't forget—glow comes from within, but the right makeup can help you shine even brighter!
