8 Tips for the Dewiest Skin of Your Life, According to Dermatologists

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When it comes to achieving dewy, supple skin, a consistent skincare routine is key. And, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, hydration and exfoliation should be a central part of that routine. "Moisturizing helps to keep the skin healthy, plump and moisturized, leaving it looking softer and smoother," she says. "It's also important exfoliate to get rid of dead skin cells, which helps to improve radiance of the skin and reduces dullness." Ready to start your new skincare routine? Ahead, dermatologists Dr. Marisa Garshick and Dr. Azadeh Shirazi  share the ultimate dewy skin tips to incorporate into your routine.

Meet the Expert

  • Dr. Marisa Garshick is a board-certified dermatologist based out of MCDS dermatology in New York City.
  • Dr. Azadeh Shirazi is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of AziMD Skincare.
01 of 08

Be Sure to Cleanse Thoroughly

"Cleansing is important to eliminate build up," says Dr. Garshick. The more oil, dead skin, and product that builds up on your skin, the duller it will appear. However, she notes that it's equally as important to avoid over cleansing. "It's important to avoid overwashing or vigorously rubbing, as this can be too aggressive on the skin and lead to microtears," she says. "This can harm the skin barrier and contribute to moisture loss." And moisture loss=less-dewy skin. To cleanse thoroughly and gently, skip the cleansing brushes and tools and just use your hands. Work the cleanser into a lather while using light pressure and circular motions with your fingertips for 60 seconds or less.

02 of 08

Use Brightening Ingredients Like Vitamin C

Brightening ingredients like vitamin C are an important part of a dewy skincare routine. "[Vitamin C] is my favorite for long-term dewy skin," explains Dr. Shirazi. "Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect and repair the skin from oxidative damage. It’s also an essential vitamin for collagen production." Meanwhile, Dr. Garshick adds that a daily vitamin C serum will also protect the skin against free-radical damage, resulting in improved hyperpigmentation and an overall more even, glowy complexion.

03 of 08

Layer on Hydrating Serums Like Hyaluronic Acid

"Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that hydrates the outer skin layers to plump and reduce fine lines, smoothing skin texture," says Dr. Shirazi, noting that HA can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water (which makes it an ideal lightweight hydrator). However, it's important to add that both derms say hyaluronic acid is significantly more effective when applied to damp skin. That's because, as a humectant, hyaluronic acid holds onto water. Without the presence of water on the skin, it could actually dehydrate your skin by drawing water from within the skin.

Byrdie Tip

For an extra dewy finish, we love the Glow Recipe Niacinamide Dew Drops, which contain hyaluronic acid and create a glowy, highlighter-esque appearance on the skin.

04 of 08

Add a Chemical Exfoliant to Your Skincare Routine

When it comes to achieving dewy skin, getting rid of dead skin cells is key, because dead skin causes the skin to be less light-reflective (a.k.a., it won't look very dewy). "Getting rid of dead skin cells is key, as it helps to leave the skin looking radiant and refreshed," says Dr. Garshick. "It also helps to eliminate a top layer of the dead skin cells to ensure proper penetration of subsequent skincare products, including those containing hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid."

05 of 08

Try a Sheet Mask for an Instant Glow

For an immediate boost of dewiness, try a sheet mask. "They’re convenient, easy to use, and great for air travel to keep the skin hydrated," says Dr. Shirazi. "Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin to add moisture and nourish the skin. (We're big fans of the 111 Skin Rose Gold Brightening Treatment Mask, which deeply hydrates the skin and leaves you with an ethereal glow.)

06 of 08

Rehydrate Throughout the Day With a Mist

While face mists aren't a necessary part of your skincare routine, they are a great way to refresh the skin throughout the day for a dewy appearance. Dr. Shirazi recommends applying a water-based face mist prior to your hyaluronic acid serum and moisturizer to trap in the moisture; then you can re-mist your face whenever you feel like you need it throughout the day to create that dewy glow.

07 of 08

Never Skip Sunscreen

Sunscreen is the most important part of any skincare routine, and the same rule of thumb is true if you're looking for that natural, glowy look. "SPF is key to maintaining the health of the skin because it protects the skin from sun damage that can contribute to photodamage and skin dullness," says Dr. Garshick. Basically, sunscreen will preserve your skin's levels of collagen, elasticity, moisture, and more to keep your skin looking youthful and dewy.

08 of 08

Use Liquid or Cream Complexion Makeup

While dewy skin truly starts within with a consistent skincare routine, you can certainly amplify your glow with the right makeup products. When it comes to that dewy, almost wet-skin look, opt for liquid complexion products that melt into the skin. A tinted sunscreen, liquid foundation, BB cream, or skin tint topped with cream or liquid highlight on the cheekbones, nose, and Cupid's bow will go a long way to bring on the dew.