STYLE

@rarebeauty

We love a dewy finish, but sometimes it can come off, well, more shiny than shimmery. We chatted with skincare and makeup experts to find the perfect balance. 

Know what makes you glow
"When skin is dry or there's a buildup of dead cells, light doesn't reflect," which leads to dullness, explains dermatologist Dr. Anar Mikailov. Best way to bust it? Add in a gentle chemical exfoliator with salicylic acid (if your skin is oily) or a toner or serum with polyhydroxy acid (if your skin is dry). Or choose a product with a combo of both, like Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner ($34, sephora.com). 

Add mega moisture
Yes, oily skin still needs a moisturizer, reveals dermatologist Dr. Jenny Liu. Why? Greasiness is an overproduction of sebum (the oil your skin naturally produces), not extra hydration. "When oily skin is dehydrated, that can lead to excess sebum," she says. Look for an oil-free, lightweight hyaluronic acid serum or moisturizer to help plump skin (our fave = The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum, $9, sephora.com).

Simplify your skincare
"Applying layers of products, especially if they all have silicones in them, can mke skin look greasy," says Dr. Mikailov. Instead, stick to one cleanser, one serum, a moisturizer and sunscreen during the day. If you're looking for an all-in-one product, Dr. Mikailov suggests a vitamin C serum. "This multi-tasking ingredient reduces dark spots, boosts the effectiveness of sunscreen and brightens your complexion." We love Sweet Chef Ginger + Vitamin C Oil-Free Moisturizer ($17, target.com). 

Turn on the light
Once you've got your skincare under control, time to add some glow. Here's how makeup artist Renée Loiz does it: "Apply a golden-toned liquid highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones, brow bones and the inner corners of the eyes, then layer foundation on top to get that lit-from-within look." Gorgeous!

Be a glowy glam expert
Give your skin a glossy sheen with brightness-boosting beauty basics.

Dramatic Dew
Apply a moisturizing highlighter to the high points of your cheeks, then blend.
Try: Undone Beauty Water Highlighter, $10, ulta.com

Bright Brows
Add a shimmery highlight under the arches. Sculpt the top of your brow with a matte tone for added structure.
Try: Benefit Cosmetics High Brow Duo Pencil in Light, $25, ulta.com

Shimmery Stare
Turn up the brightness by gently blending a light-reflecting shadow on the inner corners of your eyes.
Try: Makeup by Mario Master Crystal Reflector, $24, sephora.com

Translucent Touch
Add a bit of translucent powder to any greasy trouble spots on your face to balance out oil without stealing any shine.
Try: Wet N Wild Bare Focus Clarifying Finishing Powder, $4, ulta.com

@ulta

Hey, girl! Just wanted to let you know that this story originally ran in our August/September 2022 issue. Want more? Read the print mag for free *today* when you click HERE.

Slider image @rarebeauty via Instagram

by Erin Reimel | 9/10/2022