If there’s one beauty look that’s stood the test of time (and TikTok trends), it’s dewy skin — that fresh, radiant, healthy glow that makes your skin look lit from within.

But achieving that glow isn’t just about slathering on highlighter. There’s real science behind a dewy complexion, and it starts with what’s happening beneath the surface.

Let’s break down what gives skin that glow, why it’s trending again this summer, and how you can get the look — with or without makeup.

💧 What Is Dewy Skin, Really?

“Dewy” refers to skin that looks hydrated, smooth, and naturally radiant, as if it’s had 8 hours of sleep and a tall glass of water.

Unlike oily skin, which has excess sebum, or matte skin, which reflects no light at all, dewy skin sits in the sweet spot: it reflects light softly, feels plump, and looks alive.

🔬 The Science Behind That Glow 

Dewy skin comes down to three core pillars:

Hydration
Skin needs water — not just moisture — to appear plump and reflective. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera pull water into the skin for that dewy bounce.

Barrier Health
A healthy skin barrier prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Without it, skin becomes dry and dull. Ceramides, plant oils, and squalane help lock moisture in.

Surface Smoothness
Texture reflects light. Exfoliating (gently!) with AHAs or enzymes keeps skin smooth enough for light to bounce off evenly.

🔥 Why Dewy Skin Is Trending (Again)

 From the clean girl aesthetic to K-beauty and red carpet skin, the glow is everywhere — and for good reason:

Minimalism is in: People want fewer layers and more skin showing.

Health-first beauty: A glowing complexion is seen as a sign of wellness.

Makeup that looks like skin: Consumers are choosing lighter coverage and light-reflective formulas.

Celebs like Hailey Bieber, Alia Bhatt, and Zendaya are showcasing real skin with strategic glow — not full glam.

💄 Makeup Tips for a Dewy Look

  Even if your skin isn’t naturally glowy, you can fake it with the right techniques:

• Start with a hydrating primer: This smooths dry patches and adds moisture without heaviness.
• Choose lightweight, radiant bases: Tinted creams or natural-finish foundations work best.
• Cream over powder: Cream blushes, highlighters, and bronzers melt into skin for that dewy finish.
• Targeted highlighter: Skip the glitter. Use subtle, light-reflecting formulas on high points — cheekbones, brow bones, and cupid’s bow.

🧴 Skincare Tips to Boost Natural Glow

  Want dewy skin with no makeup at all? Focus on:

• Double cleansing (especially SPF or makeup days)
• Hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid or tremella mushroom
• Barrier support with omega-rich plant oils or ceramide creams
• Weekly gentle exfoliation
• Mist + moisturize layering to seal in water (toner → mist → serum → moisturizer)

🌿 Bonus: Glowing Skin = Healthy Skin

Dewy skin isn’t just a trend — it’s often a sign of strong skin health. When your barrier is intact, hydration is balanced, and products are in sync, the result is that soft, luminous finish we all chase.