Creating a dewy makeup look on dark skin can enhance your natural glow and give you a fresh, radiant appearance. For women of color, Hyperpigmentation can negatively impact our skin complexion. Hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces excess melanin, making patches of skin darker than the surrounding skin. It can occur from any skin injury, acne, or inflammation of the skin.  Acne on dark skin is challenging. For people with skin of color, acne causes the initial annoyance of the blemish, and it can leave behind spots of hyperpigmentation after the bumps are gone. Dermatologists recommend addressing acne quickly and aggressively for people of color to prevent the potential of residual dark spots. 

Photo Credit: Cheschhh

How Can I Make My Dark Skin Look Glowy

Darker skin tends to dry out faster than lighter skin tones. To prevent developing dry, ashy, or flaky skin with a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer. It is good practice to apply a moisturizer immediately after you wash your face. This will help to seal in moisture, reduce ashiness, and provide a natural-looking glow.

What gives you a dewy look

The key to achieving a flawless dewy look starts with well-prepped skin is to use a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities. Regular exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells, ensuring a smooth base. Moisturizing your skin is essential for maintaining a glow. Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type. For an extra boost, use a hydrating serum or facial oil. Also, a good primer can make a significant difference. Choose one that offers a luminous finish to enhance the dewy effect. When it comes to applying makeup here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve that perfect dewy finish:

What Makeup Looks Good on Dark Skin

Choose a lightweight, hydrating foundation that matches your skin tone. Products like Giorgio Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation are great for a natural glowYou want to make sure your concealer is creamy to cover any blemishes or dark spots. Make sure to blend the foundation and concealer well to avoid harsh lines. Add dimension to your face by using a liquid or cream highlighter on the high points of your face like the cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and the Cupid’s bow. Products like Fenty Beauty’s Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick work well for dark skin tones. Lightly contour with a cream or powder product to add depth. Ensure it’s well-blended for a natural look.

Cream blushes in shades like berry or deep peach add a natural flush to dark skin. Applying a bronzer to the perimeter of your face and the hollows of your cheeks helps to enhance a warm look. Fill in your brows with a pencil or powder that matches your hair color, and set them with a brow gel. To achieve the dewy look, use neutral eyeshadows with a hint of shimmer. Avoid heavy, matte shades. Finish your look by outlining your lips with a liner that matches your natural lip color, and apply a clear or slightly tinted gloss for that plump hydrated look. Lock in your makeup with a dewy setting spray from brands like Mac, NYX, Elf, and Nars. This will help your makeup last longer and maintain that fresh glowing finish. 

How to Maintain a Dewy Look

Keep your skin hydrated throughout the day by using a facial mist. A pro tip is to carry a compact highlighter or a dewy setting spray for quick touch-ups. Too much powder can mattify your look. Use it sparingly, only in areas prone to oiliness.

Following these steps can help you achieve a beautiful dewy makeup look that enhances your dark skin’s natural radiance. Remember, the key is to keep your skin well-hydrated and to use products that complement your skin tone.