Hey Friends!
I think it is safe to say one of the most popular makeup trends at the moment is creating a look of natural “glow” to the skin. While applying a highlighter alone can give a gorgeous glow, it doesn’t necessarily create a skin-deep, full-complexion radiance. I find that adding products in light layers can really enhance the skin and achieve a natural, I-Woke-Up-Like-This Luminosity.
Think of this post as your guide to creating a “no-filter” filter!
All products mentioned are linked below!
Moisturize!
This “step” is obviously not ground-breaking or new, but starting out with a hydrated base is SO key! It is always best to find a moisturizer that is most tailored to your skin type, and it can definitely be a trial-and-error process. For me, the Bobbi Brown Vitamin-Enriched Face Base has literally improved almost every aspect of my skin. It is very rich in texture, yet so lightweight and hydrating! This one is a splurge, but it’s life-changing.
Spritz!
After moisturizer, I love to spritz my whole face with elf’s Illuminating Mist & Set. It creates a such a gorgeous luminosity that acts like a glass-like backlight for the rest of your complexion products. I love that this one is vitamin and green tea-infused, so you’re also giving your skin a dose of good-for-you ingredients.
Liquid Glow!
Before applying foundation/powders, I like to use a small amount of liquid highlighter to the highest point of my cheek and brow bones. This may seem like an unnecessary step, as the addition of foundation may seem to “cancel-out” the glow; however– this helps create a more dimensional luminosity that will reveal itself more and more throughout the day. There are plenty of great liquid highlights out there, but the most important factor to keep in mind is to avoid those with glitter. Overly shimmery highlights can emphasize pores and skin texture. I love BECCA’s Shimmering Skin Perfecter in “Opal” or Benefit’s Dandelion Shy Beam Matte Liquid Highlighter.
The Benefit one is a great choice for more textured skin types. Because it is matte, it won’t emphasize skin unevenness. It really gives such a gorgeous pinky-colored brightness to the complexion. I also love to use this one on my brow bone for an instant lifted effect.
Top of With a Powder Glow!
After applying foundation, concealer, and matte setting powders— it’s time to amp up the glow! I can’t even write this post and try to recommend a $25-$30 highlight. I haven’t found many products that hold a candle to my beloved Pure Nude Highlights from essence cosmetics. The shades “Be My Highlight” and “Sunlighter” just rock my world. Like honestly, I would probably bathe in these if I could. These will not give you that blinding, beaming from outer space metallic effect– the look these give is pure creamy, dreamy natural radiance. Think of these as a very delicate “kiss” of glow.
Seal it In!
Immediately after you apply the powder highlight, give your skin one last good spritz of setting spray. Of course I love the elf one mentioned above, but I also like to finish off things with my favorite scent from Mario Badescu. This helps seal in all that glow and melts all your makeup together for long-lasting radiance.
TIP: If you’re really feeling like a beaming angel, add another layer of powder highlight before the setting spray drys!
I really enjoy having a glow that feels understated yet noticeably healthy. I personally feel most confident when my makeup enhances my features rather than covering them up– especially when it comes to my complexion. A good skin day is the best day!
How do y’all like to glow?? Please share all your thoughts below!
Thanks for reading!
xo
Jena
FTC: This post is NOT sponsored and all opinions are honest and my own. All products mentioned were purchased by myself. Some links are affiliate. Thanks for your support!
Jena J Beauty 