TikTok’s Cloud Skin Trend Is Still Going Strong: Here’s How To Get The Look

PSA: It’s time to ease up on the highlighter.

Our obsession with dewy skin has had the beauty industry in a years-long chokehold. We’ve been investing in liquid highlighters and complexion enhancers in order to achieve that lust-worthy glass-like complexion. Don’t get me wrong, glowing skin will always be in. But 2023 is seeing a more natural-looking semi-matte finish come into play.

Instead of piling on the highlighter and adding unnecessary shine to your complexion, we’re moving towards skin that’s mattified where it’s needed and allows your natural skin texture to show through.

Enter: Cloud Skin.

Officially coined by global senior artist for M.A.C, Dominic Skinner, cloud skin is all about creating a multidimensional finish by strategically placing highlighter in specific areas for a flawless finish while letting your skin show through in other areas to appear fresh-faced, sans highlighter. Think matte finish, but radiant.

In a recent interview with ELLE Australia, Skinner explained that "the technique creates an impression of a cloud because there is matte powder and then moisture from the foundation, and the combination gives a softness. It's a sort of lightness and fluffiness."

If you want to know how to get the cloud skin look, keep scrolling for your step-by-step guide.

via Instagram @gigihadid wearing Maybelline Fit Me Matte Poreless Mattifying Liquid Foundation

STEP ONE

First, prep your complexion by applying a hydrating moisturiser to a clean base, then apply a small amount of matte foundation to the back of your hand or a mixing palette. Take a damp makeup sponge and gently bounce the foundation over the areas of your face that require the most coverage. Apply concealer under eyes and any other areas you want more coverage.

STEP TWO

Using a dense makeup brush, buff cream contour into your cheekbones, jawline and nose for a sculpted face with dimension. Use the same brush to apply cream blush over the apples of your cheeks, blending back into the contour for a seamless finish.

STEP THREE

Sparingly dust powder with a small fluffy brush under your eye area, around your nostrils, along your jawline and in any areas where you get oily throughout the day. The key is to leave the rest of the skin unpowdered to allow for a hint of dewiness. If you have a dry skin type, try tapping a tiny amount of a hydrating serum on the highpoints of your face for a healthy-looking glow.

What you'll need >