Is the appearance of dewy, supple skin not the ultimate goal when it comes to our complexion? The hard work of our skincare routines, our toners, moisturisers and the like, sometimes we need that extra help to amp up the glow from time to time. One method that wholeheartedly embraces this idea is the beauty trend of dumpling skin, whereby dew and sheen aren't optional – they're the expectation. Here, we look into the dumpling skin trend, how to master the look and the products to help you along the way.
What is dumpling skin?
Rivalling glass skin, dumpling skin was coined by makeup artist and Marc Jacobs Global Beauty Ambassador, Nam Vo and can be tracked across social sites through the hashtag #DewyDumplings. It is the ultra-dewy, glowy complexion trend akin to looking like a glazed donut. Prominent enthusiasts of the movement include Rose Huntington-Whitely, Elsa Hosk and Georgia Fowler.
How do I achieve dumpling skin?
There are a few fundamentals to wrap your head around before setting out to achieve a flawless, dewy dumpling skin complexion. These include:
A solid skincare routine:
When speaking with Glamour, Vo has stated that dumpling skin cannot reach its most effective without a tried and true skincare routine already part of your day-to-day beauty regime. This includes cleansing, toning, moisturising, masking, exfoliating and always wearing SPF.
For Vo herself, she has previously said her routine includes a steam, LED mask, massage and she regularly Jade rolls her face. This is in addition to regular skincare staples, like moisturiser and cleanser.
Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel
Tatcha The Rice Wash
Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Moisturiser
Perfect your base:
An obvious one but, when looking to achieve a dewy complexion, look for a dewy foundation in conjunction with a lightweight concealer. This ensures your natural skin still shines through, showing off the results of your finessed skincare routine. If foundation isn't you go-to base option, never fear, as a BB cream or tinted moisturiser will also suffice as the dewy first step in achieving the dumpling skin illusion.
NARS Sheer Glow Foundation
Too Faced Born This Way Foundation
Mecca Max Off Duty BB Cream SPF 15
Strategically applying highlighter:
When endeavouring to achieve dumpling skin, applying highlighter to wet, moist skin is a handy trick to ensure the skin grabs the product. This can be achieved through not alloying the skin to mattify with powders, and rather using creamy, dewy product that contribute to a dumpling glow.
What is important with highlighter application for dumpling skin is to ensure you are targeting the high points of the cheekbone and applying in a C shape, from your temple through your cheekbone.To round out your dumpling skin glow, look to layer your highlighters on the face for maximum illumination. This can be achieved through first applying a liquid or gel highlighter, followed by a powder.
Hourglass Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder
Fenty Killawatt Freestyling Highlight Duo
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Multi-Glow
Apply blush:
While many makeup artists forgo blush these days, replacing it with ample highlight and sculpting techniques, when attempting to mimic the trend, an underrated hero of achieving the glow is blush. Adding depth to the face, it provides a natural flush which can help make the effects of dumpling skin appear more organic than staged. Vo has previously recommended blush be applied directly on the apples of the cheeks. To add extra dimension, a cream bronzer can also be applied to the outer perimeters of the face after blush has been applied.
NARS Blush
Laura Mercier Blush Infusion
Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Melting Blush
Image: Instagram