As the weather heats up, summer trends begin to make an appearance. And if you’re even somewhat interested in skincare and makeup, you’ve likely heard of “dolphin skin.” Named after the aquatic animal, this look focuses on a clear, glowy complexion. Sounds simple enough, right? Well, when you factor in skin types and the diligent routine required to get this effortless look, it’s a lot.
So, it’s understandable to not know where to start. If you’re hoping to hop on board, you’ve come to the right place. Below are the winning combination of steps to take to achieve your dream skin by summertime.
1. Evaluate Your Skincare Routine
Whether you’re new to the skincare game or consider yourself a seasoned pro, dolphin skin starts with a solid routine. After all, the look is all about your skin being glowy and smooth. Of course, that isn’t to say your skin must be perfect to participate. You’ll just need to review your routine and incorporate products that can help make a dolphin-like skin appearance possible.
Start by checking out your most loved and used skincare products. You’ll need to have a few bases covered to be on your way to super-hydrated, sun-kissed skin. Sunscreen is a must — for extra glow, look for one with a dewy tint. To fight breakouts, explore salicylic acid toners, spot treatments, and hydrocolloid patches.
Anti-aging treatments are also key to smooth skin. To have this base covered, find a way to incorporate a tretinoin or retinol product into your nighttime routine. You may need to start slow and incorporate more product over time to let your skin adjust. Once these aspects are covered, you’ll be able to create the clear, glowy canvas dolphin skin thrives on. From there, it’s about sticking to your routine and being consistent.
2. Prep Your Skin
The key to dolphin skin is effortless glow. And that’s difficult to sustain if you don’t prepare your skin correctly. After all, the desired smooth, clear, glowy look requires a solid base to last throughout the day.
Dry, flaky skin is in direct contrast with the glowy look you’re going for. So, it’s important to prioritize moisturizing your skin as part of your preparation routine. If you’re prioritizing morning skincare, you may already cover this. If not, it’s important to find a moisturizer — with SPF — that nourishes your skin and can act as the base for your glow.
From there, look into primers that address your biggest skin concerns. If you struggle with big pores or texture, try out a primer targeted at creating smooth, poreless skin. For those who get oily as the day goes on, try to find primers built for longevity. Something with a tackier consistency that boasts long wear is going to be great for you. With skin prepped and ready, you’ll be well on your way to a dolphin-like look.
3. Choose Glowy Makeup
It’s hard to achieve glowy skin if your makeup routine doesn’t feature products aimed at creating a glow. So, take a peek at your makeup collection and see what you have available. The good news is that glowy skin doesn’t require that many products.
You can probably make use of your existing makeup and still achieve the desired look. On its own, a super matte foundation isn’t the right choice for dolphin skin. However, if you mix it with your favorite moisturizer, you can create a more natural look. Liquid glow drops can also be mixed with a more matte face product to create a dewier skin texture. Even some finely milled eyeshadows can double as a highlighter to help amp up your glow.
But if you’re wanting to invest in a new array of glowy beauty products, there are a few staples to consider. For one, a glowy, skin-like skin tint or foundation is a must. Highlighter is also immensely helpful. To get the most natural look possible from your highlight, opt for a liquid formula that has a sheen versus any chunky glitter. In general, liquid products can blend more easily, helping you achieve that dewy look.
4. Make it Last
Once you’ve achieved the smooth, effortless look that is dolphin skin, you need to make it last. That’s where facial sprays come in. Whether you’re wearing a full face of makeup or going au naturale, sprays are a one-step way to have glowing skin.
With makeup on, especially if you use any powder products, setting spray helps blend your look together. Formulated to help lock in your makeup, setting spray is a general summertime must. For dolphin skin in particular, though, it’s essential. Choosing a dewy spray or one marketed as glowy can take your look to the next level.
For makeup-free days or when you’re on the go, a rose water spray is a great product to have on hand. With a fine, refreshing mist, rose water nourishes the skin to provide a more moisturized look. The end result? A glow that lasts.
On Your Way to Sleek, Beautiful Skin
Like any beauty or skincare trend, some people love it and some people hate it. Of course, you have to give it a go before you can figure out which side you fall on. So, start early. Gather the products you’re wanting to test out and see if dolphin skin is the right fit for you this summer.
