How to Achieve Dewy Skin Without Makeup (Even During Winter)

As if it ever left, a glowing, ultra-dewy complexion is back in, with everyone from beauty bloggers to runway models emulating the look. “The inspiration comes from the Korean beauty trend known as ‘glass skin,’ which basically translates to a poreless, dewy complexion that has been enhanced with a luminesce sheen or finish,” explains celebrity makeup artist, Geoffrey Rodriguez. “Compared to some of the other popular beauty trends such as contouring, or matte skin, which refract light and can look very heavy and artificial in natural daylight, ‘glass skin’ ultimately looks softer and perhaps therefore, more flattering.

The best way to achieve this youthful, glowing appearance? It starts with a focus on skin health: regular exfoliation, hydration, drink water, etc. “This trend is about caring for your skin until it strobes on its own and you don’t need foundation and primers to fake it,” says Alex LaMarsh, celebrity hair and makeup artist. “It approaches skin care as an indulgent experience rather than a duty.”

1. Start with a quality cleanser

The key to looking fresh-faced starts with, well, a fresh face. Begin your skincare routine with a clean slate. Remove any leftover makeup along with dirt and oils that have settled in your pores over the course of the day or night. Choose a product that is not drying, but instead hydrating so that your skin retains enough moisture to withstand any makeup you apply along with the wear and tear of the outside environment.

2. Follow clean skin with a hydrating toner

“In traditional Korean skincare regimens toner is applied by vigorously patting into the skin,” explains Rodriguez. “The belief is that the skin is stimulated by increasing circulation, which helps to create a healthy glow.” To maintain optimal hydration, opt for a toner that’s infused with antioxidants and amino acids that help smooth and maintain hydrated and resilient skin.

3. Exfoliate once or twice a week

This is not the step to skip, experts say, if the look you’re going for is glowing and dewy. “Exfoliation is critical to get that dewy look,” says Hilary Kline, a Minneapolis-based makeup artist. “In fact, it helps buff away those dead layers of skin and helps reveal a brighter complexion.” Choose a hydrating one that incorporates a rich blend of organic botanicals as well as humectants like hyaluronic acid that draw moisture into the skin.

4. Apply a rich serum or face oil massaged into the skin

A rich dose of hyaluronic acid, whether in a serum or face oil, is the boost of hydration your skin is craving. It not only keeps your skin supple and prevents dryness, but it also provides the perfect foundation for you to apply your makeup. “Hyaluronic acid is like a sponge that pulls in water to the outer skin layer,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. “It enhances hydration, radiance, and offers a plumping effect.”