Summer is the season to look glowy and golden. For some, the road to radiant skin may involve a handful of self-tanning products and body bronzers. However, for those of us with deeper complexions, the concept of glowy skin means so much more. Varying in hues and undertones, melanated skin is at its best when sun-kissed. It radiates a lit-from-within glow that showcases the complexities of each unique skin tone. While the season alone does a great job of giving you a naturally luminous look, having the right products can enhance your glow and ensure that it lasts well into the fall. Below, we sat down with experts to get the lowdown on making melanated skin shine bright and glow like J.Lo. Now, let’s get into it.
Featured experts
- Sheika Daley is a celebrity makeup artist and Lancôme Global International Artist
- Keita Moore is a celebrity makeup artist
- Lindsey Zubritsky is a board-certified dermatologist based in Pittsburgh, PA
Use the right skin-care ingredients
The basis of any glowy look, whether you’re wearing makeup or opting for a fresh face, is a good skin-care routine. Prioritizing ingredients that hydrate and brighten the skin will help set the stage for a luminous look. “Hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are must-have ingredients for any routine,” says celebrity makeup artist Sheika Daley, whose clients include A-listers like Serena Williams and Kelly Rowland. The pro adds that incorporating peptides can also be beneficial, as they improve skin elasticity and boost overall radiance.
Glycerin is another key ingredient that can help boost natural radiance. It may not be the first ingredient that comes to mind, but as Keita Moore, a celebrity makeup artist whose roster of clients includes melanin-rich beauties like Yara Shahidi, Anok Yai and Iman, explains, it’s ideal for hydration. “Glycerin draws moisture into the skin to deeply hydrate it,” he says.
Don’t forget to exfoliate
Daley notes that while these ingredients are top-tier, it’s also important to maintain a consistent exfoliating routine to remove dead skin and promote healthy cellular turnover. “Glycolic acid is great for gently exfoliating the skin to reveal the fresh, glowing layers beneath,” she says. As she explains, maintaining a consistent routine ensures that the freshest cells will always be visible.
Always use SPF
No skin-care routine is complete without sun protection, and that goes tenfold for enhancing your melanin’s natural glow. “Focusing on skin health and incorporating sunscreens into your routine is just as important of a step in your routine,” says Pittsburgh, PA dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, MD. If your daily makeup looks tend to be pared down, she recommends using tinted sunscreen for UV protection and light coverage.
Prep your skin before applying your makeup
On the other hand, if you’re planning a full coverage look, Moore notes that prepping your skin ahead of time is key. “Preparation is just as crucial as the products used,” he says. His pro tip? Apply an illuminating lotion under your makeup for a subtle glow. Moving on to your foundation, you want to be careful in choosing a formula that isn’t mattifying or too dry. “It’s best to opt for cream or liquid products instead of powders,” he notes. This will ensure your makeup has a luminous finish that also looks natural.
The best glowy products for melanated skin
Skin care
Makeup
