How Makeup Artists Are Achieving That “Glassy Skin” Glow (and How You Can Too!)
Hey friends,
If you’ve been scrolling beauty reels lately, you’ve probably seen everyone talking about “glassy skin.”
It’s that smooth, luminous, almost mirror-like glow that looks like your skin is lit from within. And it’s not just for the 20-somethings or the influencers — pro makeup artists are making it totally wearable (and holiday-party ready!).
The secret? It’s all about layering hydration and light, not heavy foundation or shimmer overload. Let’s peek at what the pros are doing — and what you can grab from Walmart or Amazon to recreate the look right at home.
Step 1: Start with major hydration
Makeup artists are prepping skin with layers of moisture so the glow starts before the first drop of makeup hits the brush. Think of it as skincare as primer. They’ll start with a gentle double cleanse — something like the CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser — followed by a toner or essence to rehydrate. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4nJrgAK
Then comes the glow potion: Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum – A K-beauty favorite with peach extract and peptides for that bouncy, dewy finish. Peach & Lily – Glass Skin Refining Serum for Face (1.35 ounces) – Hyaluronic Acid Niacinamide Serum – Sensitive Skin – Vitamin B3, Peach & Yam, Peptides – Self Care, Vegan, Cruelty Free, Korean Beauty. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4qM77Nd
Good Molecules Hyaluronic Acid Serum (Walmart) – A budget-friendly option that plumps skin so makeup looks seamless instead of sitting on top. Walmart affiliate link https://walmrt.us/480PVvQ
Once that sinks in, a lightweight moisturizer seals everything in. Peach & Lily Gel Moisturizer Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/49ElTzg ) is amazing, but even Olay Super Serum 5-in-1 ( Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3WM8m15 ) or L’Oreal Paris Collagen Moisture Filler Moisture Bounce Face Serum Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/47LCNJM ) can do the trick.
Step 2: Prime like a pro — but skip the mattifiers
Makeup artists are moving away from flat, pore-blurring primers and instead using radiance primers that reflect light softly.
e.l.f. Halo Glow Filter is practically viral for this reason — it smooths texture and adds that candlelight sheen. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/47SQWoO
L’Oréal True Match Lumi Glotion is another secret weapon. A little on the high points of your face and suddenly you look like you had a facial yesterday. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4p2RJui
Step 3: Sheer, buildable foundation
Instead of full coverage, pros mix foundation with serum or moisturizer to create a sheer wash of color.
Try Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Liquid Foundation Makeup (Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3LoSm2J ) or L’Oreal Paris True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum Foundation with 1% Hyaluronic acid. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/3XivrbQ . Apply with a damp sponge (I love those multicolored vegan makeup sponges from Amazon) to keep the skin looking fresh — not cakey. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/47Rc9QQ
Step 4: Cream everything
Powders? Minimal. Makeup artists are using cream blush, cream bronzer, and liquid highlighter to keep the skin glossy and light.
Milani Cheek Kiss Cream Blush melts right in. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4i7ziSZ
A touch of Saie Glowy Super Gel on cheekbones and down the nose adds that “wet look” finish without sparkle fallout. Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/482d3tZ
Step 5: The final mist
The last step is a good setting spray — not to mattify, but to seal and refresh.
Milani Make It Dewy Setting Spray Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4hNYAoR or NYC Dewy Finish Setting Spray Amazon affiliate link https://amzn.to/4oxnJqv Both lock in moisture and add a final mist of magic.
So, what’s the takeaway?
Glassy skin isn’t about perfection — it’s about looking healthy and hydrated. A few mindful layers of skincare, a touch of radiance, and your glow can walk into the room before you do.
This holiday season, skip the shimmer bomb. Go for that subtle, reflective glow that looks like you just left a spa — not the craft store’s glitter aisle. 😉 xoxo, Dana
P.S. If you’re shopping early for beauty gifts (or stocking up your own vanity), my Living with Dana books and Etsy shop make great holiday gifts too!
📘 My books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FXDQFQ1Q
🎁 Living with Dana Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LivingWithDana
