Get lit-from-within skin with a simple, step-by-step routine—from smart prep and hydrating layers to SPF and makeup tips that keep the glow fresh.

Prep: Cleanse and Smooth — A dewy finish starts with a respectful cleanse that keeps your skin barrier intact. Choose a gentle cleanser with a skin-friendly pH and use lukewarm water to avoid stripping natural oils. Aim for a clean, comfortable feel rather than a squeaky finish. A touch of careful exfoliation helps light bounce evenly; opt for soft chemical options like PHA or lactic acid in low strengths, and limit use to a few times per week to prevent irritation. Pat skin dry, don't rub, and include the neck and chest in your routine. Follow with a hydrating toner or essence to replenish water and create slip for layers to come. If you're sensitive, patch test and introduce one new step at a time. The goal is a calm, supple canvas where pores look refined, texture feels smoother, and your complexion is primed to soak up moisture without redness or tightness.

Hydration: Drench Then Drink — The dewy look is all about water, so flood skin with weightless moisture. Work in thin, flexible layers that feature humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe, panthenol, and beta-glucan. Apply to slightly damp skin to amplify absorption, then build with a hydrating essence followed by a serum, pressing rather than rubbing. This layering approach prevents that sticky feel while delivering a lasting, bouncy plumpness. If you're oily, keep layers light and focus on watery textures; if you're dry, add an extra pass of essence or a mist between steps for cushiony comfort. A touch of niacinamide can support barrier strength and help balance shine without dulling glow. Don't forget the delicate eye and lip areas, which benefit from gentle, water-rich formulas. Aim for skin that looks juicy and elastic before sealing everything in.

Treat: Targeted Glow Serums — Once hydration is in place, add targeted serums to boost clarity and radiance. Vitamin C offers antioxidant defense and brightness, while niacinamide supports an even tone and refined appearance. For extra luminosity, consider peptides to promote a firmer look, or licorice root and tranexamic acid to visibly calm discoloration. Keep actives simple and focused; alternate rather than stack too many strong ingredients in a single session. Follow the thinnest-to-thickest rule and allow a short pause between layers so each step sets properly. If sensitivity is a concern, start with lower strengths and concentrate on barrier-loving companions like panthenol and ceramides. The aim is a lit-from-within glow that comes from a smooth, even surface and supported skin, not from glitter or heavy shimmer. Consistency over intensity wins; small, steady gains translate into a more translucent, light-catching finish day after day.

Seal: Moisturize and Protect — Lock in water with a moisturizer that suits your skin type. Look for ceramides, squalane, cholesterol, and fatty acids to reinforce the barrier, plus a touch of occlusives if you're dry. Oily or combination skin often loves a gel-cream, while very dry skin thrives on richer textures. Warm a pea-sized amount between fingers and press it in for a smooth, elastic feel. If you want extra sheen, pat a drop of face oil onto the high points rather than all over. Finish with broad-spectrum SPF every morning; it's the non-negotiable step that preserves brightness and prevents dullness from environmental stress. Choose a hydrating sunscreen with a comfortable, dewy finish and apply generously as the final skincare step before makeup. Reapply as directed when spending time in daylight. With water sealed and protection on, you've created a resilient, light-reflective surface that stays fresh longer.

Finish: Dewy Makeup and Daily Habits — Enhance your skincare glow with skin-first makeup. Swap heavy bases for a skin tint or sheer foundation and mix a dab of moisturizer for slip. Use cream formulas for blush, bronzer, and highlight, tapping them onto the high points where light naturally hits. Keep powder strategic: a whisper on the T-zone preserves glow elsewhere. Press products in with a damp sponge for a refined, non-greasy sheen, then mist with a hydrating setting spray to meld layers. For touch-ups, refresh with a light face mist, press with clean fingers, and add a micro-drop of oil to cheekbones. Round out your routine with supportive habits: consistent SPF, steady hydration, nutrient-rich fats, quality sleep, and a humidifier in dry climates. Gentle movement boosts circulation, and mindful stress care helps keep skin calm. Dewy skin isn't a single step; it's a soft ritual that prioritizes moisture, balance, and subtle polish.