There are several ways to achieve dewy skin: It takes the right balance of moisture, exfoliation, nutrients, and tenderness. (Or, as any makeup artist will tell you, you can also mimic the look with the right products and tricks—which we’re all for faking a natural glow if your skin just isn’t having that type of day.) And ultimately, your skin care path will look different from that of someone who has another skin type. What does this mean exactly? Well, if you’re oil-slicked normally, you’ll want to find something that helps alleviate excess oil, like washes with enzymes. If you’re prone to congestion, find an option that gently unclogs pores. If you’re dry and inflamed, find something that respects the barrier and infuses moisture-rich ingredients. This step is so key to getting it right, as cleansers essentially make your skin ready for all the dew-enhancing steps to follow. “Impurities on the skin can prevent active ingredients from penetrating,” says board-certified dermatologist Jennifer Herrmann, M.D. The good news is that there are plenty of antioxidant options out there: Vitamin C not only helps tone but is an essential part of the collagen synthesis process, thereby making it ideal for aging skin. Vitamin B3 is the soothing antioxidant, ideal for inflamed skin. Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) does so by strengthening the skin barrier, something that’s essential if your skin is easily irritated or sensitive. Or there’s the naturally present CoQ10, which is found in all human cells wherein it scavenges free radicals, protects our mitochondria, and prevents DNA from oxidative stress. You support your barrier health by, first, not stripping the skin via over-exfoliation. And, second, by using nutrient-dense lotions or creams that provide vital ingredients your skin needs to stay strong. There are several topicals to look for. To start, ceramides come to mind. “Ceramides are fatty molecules that make up the natural skin barrier and help to retain moisture,” elaborates Marisa Garshick, M.D., FAAD. “Specifically, ceramides serve as the glue that helps keep the skin cells together.” There are also vital humectants like hyaluronic acid, which pulls and holds water in the skin. Or look for naturally occurring lipids like squalane. “Squalane is a natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in your skin. It plays a role in skin hydration and barrier protection,” says board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D. And since dewy skin tends to have a bit of reflective quality, this will help impart that glassy shiny finish. Jojoba and argan tend to be favorite oils for skin, as they are both lightweight and don’t clog pores. “The most important tip is that ’less is more.’ You want to exfoliate just enough to increase cell turnover and reveal fresh new skin,” says Ife Rodney, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Eternal Dermatology. “But be sure to not scratch or damage your skin by overusing these devices or products.” OK, but let’s put it into numbers, shall we? “Most people with normal or combination skin can get away with twice- or even thrice-weekly exfoliation,” she says. “Those with more mature, dry, or sensitive skin, may only want to exfoliate weekly.” You can do achieve this naturally with supplements. Just look for smart formulas with targeted, skin-supporting bioactives. First up: Astaxanthin is a potent antioxidant that tempers inflammation, neutralizes free radicals, and manages photodamage.* It’s a member of the carotenoid family of antioxidants, which have been shown to enhance the overall tone of your skin.* We also are big fans of phytoceramides, which are plant-derived ceramides provide cells with hydration, enhancing moisture levels and smoothing texture. Studies show that they can help reduce fine lines and smooth skin.* All of these enhance one another’s performance; the end result is a supplement that works thoroughly to give your skin cells energy, moisture, and nutrients.* Another key tip, notes makeup artist Jenny Patinkin: “The key to makeup application is to use creams and liquids.” That’s where your cream blushes, liquid highlighters, and velvety shadows come into play. With these products, in particular, skip powders: “Powders can grip and look caky,” says Patinkin.
