Hey, friend! So, let’s talk about one of the most coveted looks in the makeup world—the dewy finish. You know, that glowing, fresh-faced, “I-just-had-a-facial” vibe that every client dreams of. Whether it’s for bridal makeup, editorial shoots, or an everyday glam, mastering the dewy look is a must-have skill for every makeup artist. And let me tell you, it’s not just about piling on highlighter. Nope, there’s a science (and a little art) to it! 🎨💕
Here are 5 secret weapons every MUA should have in their arsenal for nailing that dewy perfection:
- Hydrating Primers: The Foundation for Radiance 🧴✨
If you want a dewy finish, the prep work is everything. A good hydrating primer is like giving the skin a tall glass of water before the makeup goes on. It smooths the skin, plumps up fine lines, and creates the perfect canvas for glowing makeup.
Some of my favorite go-to hydrating primers:
Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Hydrating Primer (serious hydration without feeling greasy!)
e.l.f. Power Grip Primer + Niacinamide (budget-friendly and a dewy glow booster!)
Pro MUA Tip:
Massage the primer into the skin for 1-2 minutes. This not only hydrates but also improves circulation, giving the skin an immediate glow even before the makeup starts. 💆♀️✨
- Dewy Foundations: Glow From the Base Up 💄🌟
A good dewy finish starts with the right foundation. Look for lightweight, luminous formulas that let the skin shine through. These types of foundations blur imperfections while keeping the skin looking fresh and natural.
Some favorites in the dewy foundation department:
NARS Sheer Glow Foundation (glowy, buildable coverage that lasts all day).
L’Oréal True Match Lumi Foundation (affordable and packed with a natural luminosity).
Pro MUA Tip:
Mix a drop of liquid highlighter or an illuminating moisturizer into the foundation for an extra boost of radiance. Just make sure it’s blended evenly to avoid looking patchy. 👌✨
- Cream-Based Products: The Dewy Queen’s Best Friend 💕💧
Powders are great for mattifying, but when it comes to dewy looks, cream-based products are where the magic happens. Think cream blushes, bronzers, and highlighters—they melt into the skin and give that seamless, second-skin glow.
Here’s what you need in your kit:
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (a dreamy all-over glow enhancer).
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush (long-lasting and blends like a dream).
Milk Makeup Cream Bronzer Stick (so creamy and easy to work with).
Pro MUA Tip:
Use your fingers or a damp beauty sponge to apply cream products. The warmth of your fingers or sponge ensures the products blend seamlessly into the skin. Also, layer lightly—you can always build up the product but taking it away is harder! 🙌
- Setting Sprays with a Glow Factor 🌟💦
Most people think setting sprays are just to lock in the makeup, but for a dewy finish, they’re a game-changer. A good illuminating setting spray not only holds the makeup in place but also adds that final touch of glow.
Some must-haves:
MAC Fix+ Setting Spray (the OG for hydrating and setting).
Morphe Luminous Setting Spray (budget-friendly and gives a radiant finish).
Pro MUA Tip:
Spray the setting mist onto a damp sponge and press it into the high points of the face (cheekbones, forehead, nose) for a targeted glow. It’s a small step, but it makes a world of difference! ✨
- Strategic Highlighting: The Glow Game Master 🌟✨
Highlighting is, of course, a key player in achieving a dewy finish, but it’s all about strategic placement. Focus on the high points of the face—think cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, the cupid’s bow, and a touch on the temples. But remember, we’re going for radiant, not glittery!
Some highlighter faves:
BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector (Opal) (a cult favorite for a reason).
Glossier Haloscope Stick (perfect for that natural, barely-there glow).
Pro MUA Tip:
Apply highlighter before setting spray for a more natural look. Use your ring finger to tap the product into the skin for that “lit-from-within” glow. Avoid chunky glitter products for this look—keep it soft and refined. 💖
Bonus Tips for MUAs:
Skin Prep is Key: Always assess your client’s skin type. For dry skin, start with a rich moisturizer, and for oily skin, go for lightweight hydrating gels or serums. Hydrated skin = better glow! 💧
Lighting Matters: Dewy finishes look best in natural or soft lighting, so check your work under different lighting conditions to avoid overly shiny spots.
Balance is Everything: If you’re going heavy on the glow for the skin, keep other elements (like eyes or lips) soft and balanced.
Why Dewy Finishes Are Game-Changing for MUAs
The dewy look isn’t just about making your clients look radiant—it’s about giving their skin a youthful, healthy, and natural vibe. It photographs beautifully (hello, glowing bridal shots!), works across all skin types (with the right prep), and is versatile enough for both everyday and glam looks. 🌟💕
So, whether you’re prepping a bride for her big day or working on a model for an editorial spread, these 5 secret weapons will have you covered. Your clients will be asking, “How did you make me glow like this?!” and you can just smile and say, “It’s all part of the magic.” ✨😉
