How to create a natural, dewy finish with your foundation

Create a natural glow with these simple steps.

We’ve all seen the complicated contouring videos – the ones with a million steps, using layers of concealer, foundation and bronzer.

But creating a natural look with your makeup doesn’t have to be that difficult. In fact, the most important step is prepping your skin before any makeup is actually applied.

This is the key to achieving that coveted natural, dewy finish that lasts all day long. And, of course, choosing hydrating beauty products with vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which help retain moisture and brighten the skin.

Here’s how to create that natural, J.Lo glow with your foundation.

1. Cleanse and prep

You want to start with a blank canvas, which means cleansing your skin from any old makeup or build up that’s accumulated over time. Usually, a cream cleanser works best on dry or sensitive skin. The general rule is to also exfoliate at least twice a week, but be careful to avoid products with silicone beads as this can aggravate the skin.

Gently cleanse with warm water and pat the skin dry. Then apply a light moisturiser, preferably with SPF, being sure to bring it up underneath your eyes. This is wear the skin can thin very easily and it’s important to keep it hydrated for that youthful glow.

2. Prime your base

Think of your primer like the base coat you apply before your nail polish – not everyone does it, but when you do it makes everything look smoother and last longer. It preps the skin for a flawless and natural foundation application, so you won’t get that cakey look.

Carter Beauty’s Youth Boost Primer and Serum is a great one to use because it contains three core nutrients – vitamin C (brightening skin tone and reducing redness), hyaluronic acid (keeping skin hydrated and fresh) and vitamin E (reducing inflammation and UV damage).

3. Apply Foundation

There are several things to consider when choosing a foundation. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, you’ll want a fragrance free option with nutrients and if you have oily skin, you’ll want a lighter, oil-free formula.

A good general one for all skin types is Carter Beauty’s Miracle Measure foundation. It contains the same ingredients as its primer (vitamin C, E and hyaluronic acid), nourishing the skin while providing a smooth finish. We recommend applying with a beauty blender, especially if you have dry skin. It offers the most even and natural looking coverage.

4. Highlight with creamy colours

To get that dewy effect, use creamy colours to add a subtle contour. A luminous highlighter will catch the light best and give a natural shine, while a creamy blush will add definition. First, apply highlighter on key areas like the cheekbones, nose and brow bones.

Then use a rosy blush (or whatever colour lightly contrasts with your skin tone), dragging it upwards to the apples of your cheeks and blending with your fingers. If you’ve dark circles, don’t forget to dab some concealer under your eyes too for that fresh-faced effect.

5. Keep it natural

Now that your face makeup is done, you can finish the look with natural eye makeup. A quick brush of the brows upwards, with gel or a brow pen, a neutral eyeshadow and a few flicks of mascara will do the trick.

Also, to keep your dewy finish fresh, make sure to keep a hydrating mist in your bag for an occasional spritz. This will preserve your look and prevent makeup lines from forming throughout the day.

Feature image: Instagram/@jlo

Carter Beauty is formulated with high performing, active skincare ingredients whilst also functioning as makeup products – the solution to simplifying beauty routines. Shop the range now.