HOW TO GET GLOWING SKIN: UNLOCK THE SECRETS TO A DEWY COMPLEXION

If TikTok is anything to go by, no-makeup make up is here to stay — and glowy skin is an absolute must-have for achieving that fresh-faced finish. Everyone’s talking about it: the dewy, lit-from-within complexion that seems effortlessly radiant, no matter the occasion. But with so many skin care hacks and viral beauty tips flooding our feeds, it can be overwhelming to know which ones actually deliver results — and which ones are simply a passing trend. From DIY face masks to multi-step routines and glow-boosting serums, it’s hard to cut through the noise and discover how to get glowing skin that lasts.
But don’t fret, we’ve got your complexion covered! In this article, we’re diving deep into all the essentials on how to get glowing skin, from revealing the tried-and-true techniques and products that will leave you looking radiant and refreshed (without all the trial and error).
Get ready for the glowdown as we reveal our not-so-secret secrets on achieving your most radiant skin yet.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
HOW TO GET GLOWING SKIN
Achieving radiant results isn’t as complicated as it seems — it's all about the right routine, key ingredients and a little extra TLC for your complexion. Simply follow the simple steps below and discover to how to get glowing skin from home.
DOUBLE CLEANSE IN THE PM
We know by now that great skin starts with a clear canvas. Cue: Double cleansing. Laying the groundwork for the rest of your regime – as when your complexion is properly cleansed it can absorb active ingredients better – this two-step routine involves starting with an oil-based cleanser or micellar water to remove make up, sunscreen and excess oils, followed by a water-based cleanser to thoroughly cleanse the skin.
When double cleansing, ensure to choose products suited for your skin type. For example, if you have dry skin, go for a nourishing, hydrating oil-based cleanser and for oily skin, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic iteration.
OPT FOR BRIGHTENING INGREDIENTS
When wondering how to get glowing skin, you need to look beyond your routine… as it’s essential to consider the ingredients you’re applying too. Incorporating the right, brightening ingredients into your day-to-day is key. Here are just some of the main components that boost radiance, smoothness and overall sheen.
Vitamin C: a powerful antioxidant that brightens, evens and reduces pigmentation, vitamin C defends against free radical damage and encourages collagen production. Specifically used to fade dark spots, this skin care staple can be found in your serums and moisturisers to grant an instant glow.
Hyaluronic acid: attracting moisture to your complexion, hyaluronic acid is celebrated for its hydrating and plumping properties. Suitable for all skin types (even the most sensitive) this powerhouse can be found in toners, moisturisers and everything in between. Offering a dew-drenched sign off, it quenches your skin’s thirst while reflecting light better to produce a natural shine.
Niacinamide: otherwise known as B5, niacinamide is the ultimate multitasker. It not only works hard to brighten it reduces the appearance of dark sports and strengthens your protective barrier too. Balancing oil production, it’s ideal for both dry and oily skin types and can be typically found between 2-5% in your daily moisturisers.
Peptides: short chains of amino acids, peptides are renowned for repairing and reviving your skin. Stimulating collagen production to improve elasticity, it goes beyond its call of duty to provide a smooth, firm and more radiant finish. From copper peptides to palmitoyl pentapeptide, these heroes are present in many serums and moisturisers.
AHAs: exfoliate dead cells to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion. AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid improve skin surfaces while evening out tone and fading fine lines. Found in your chemical exfoliants, face masks and toners, they’re work best when introduced slowly into your routine and when used consistently.
BE CONFIDENT WITH EXFOLIANTS
Always working hard behind the scenes, our skin carries out countless essential functions that often go unnoticed. However, as we age, our skin’s natural shedding process slows down, leading to dullness. The solution? Using an effective exfoliant to achieve a healthy, happy glow.
Working by banishing the buildup of dead skin cells, exfoliation does everything from unclogging pores that can lead to breakouts and blemishes to reducing the appearance of fine lines, rough patches and uneven texture by smoothing out the skin’s surface. By regularly incorporating exfoliation into your routine, you'll reveal fresher, smoother, and more radiant skin that naturally shines. Just don’t overdo it — over-exfoliating can cause sensitivity and breakouts, With that in mind, depending on your skin type, we recommend exfoliating 2-3 times a week. Those with sensitive skin may even prefer once a week.
FLOOD YOUR SKIN WITH HYDRATION
When your skin is well-hydrated, it looks plump, smooth and dewy, reflecting light in a way that creates a natural, radiant glow. And one of the best ways to hydrate your skin? A good moisturiser. Locking in some much-needed moisture while forming a protective barrier to prevent any moisture loss, these creams maintain the skin’s elasticity, making it appear firmer and more vibrant.
To maintain a glowing complexion, look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane and ceramides. These ingredients help attract moisture, ensuring that your skin remains soft, smooth and dewy throughout the day. For dry skin, choose a thicker, more emollient moisturiser, and for oily or combination skin, a lightweight, non-comedogenic gel-based moisturiser may be better.
TREAT YOURSELF TO A FACE MASK
A beauty staple, face masks are a great what to boost your skin’s hydration and give it a glowy sign off. Packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerine, and aloe vera, they deliver intense moisture to the skin, leaving it plump, smooth and oh so dewy. But that’s not all, face masks can also detoxify and clarify the skin by drawing out impurities, excess oil and toxins. Ingredients like charcoal, clay and mud are great for keeping pores clear and preventing breakouts, which helps maintain a smooth and clear complexion.
Not only do face masks offer these skin-enhancing benefits, but they also provide a moment of relaxation, which can reduce the negative effects stress has on your skin. Whether hydrating, calming, or clay, a face mask can leave your skin feeling nourished, revived and glowing after every use. We recommend using one weekly, during your self care Sunday, Monday or Tuesday sessions.
DON’T FORGET YOUR SPF
The saying ‘prevention is better than cure’ holds especially true when it comes to protecting your skin from the sun. The longer you’re exposed to UV rays, the more you risk accelerating the signs of aging.
To maintain healthy, glowing skin, it’s essential to apply a generous layer of SPF every morning, regardless of the season or forecast. Even during the colder months, UVA rays — responsible for most of the skin aging process — can penetrate clouds. If you're out in the sun, exercising, sweating or even sat next to the window in the office or on a plane, make sure to apply sunscreen every morning and throughout the day for continuous protection.
Ultimately, sunscreen acts as a shield, ensuring your skin remains vibrant and glowing for years to come.
CARRY OUT FACIAL MASSAGES
Face massages are a simple yet effective way to enhance your complexion and achieve a radiant glow. By gently massaging your skin with face rollers, you stimulate blood flow and improve circulation, which helps deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the skin cells. This increased circulation promotes a healthy, vibrant appearance and can give your skin that sought-after natural radiance. Plus, face massages help relieve tension in the muscles beneath the skin, reducing puffiness and helping to define facial contours, creating a smoother, more sculpted look.
To maximise the benefits of your face massages, consider using nourishing oils or serums, as they can hydrate the skin and allow the massage to be even more effective in promoting a glowing appearance.
GET ENOUGH BEAUTY SLEEP
Is there anything a good night’s sleep can’t fix? Getting your beauty sleep plays a crucial role in achieving a luminous look. How? Well, for starters it allows your skin to repair, regenerate and refresh. As you snooze, your body enters its most restorative phase, boosting blood flow to the skin and enabling cells to regenerate more efficiently. This process helps repair damage caused by environmental stressors (we’re looking at you UV exposure and pollution), which can leave your complexion looking dull and tired. When your skin is allowed to rest, it can restore itself, leading to a healthier, more radiant appearance.
HOW TO GET GLOWING SKIN FAQS
How can I make my skin glow naturally?
Achieving a natural, healthy glow is all about maintaining good skin care habits, nourishing your skin and protecting it from environmental damage as discussed above. However, there are also lifestyle changes that can be made to help boost your radiance. This includes everything from eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and stress management to getting a full eight hours sleep and exercising regularly.
How to get Korean glass skin?
Achieving Korean glass skin involves a multi-step skin care routine focused on hydration, nourishment and gentle care. Start with double cleansing to thoroughly clean your complexion, without stripping its moisture. Follow with regular exfoliation with a gentle chemical exfoliant, applying a hydrating toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera to replenish moisture and incorporate serums and essences that target specific skin concerns like brightening or hydration. As with all beauty routines, complete your routine with a rich moisturiser to lock in hydration and use a daily sunscreen to protect from UV damage. To go one step further with this and ensure that covetable glass skin finish, consider adding an overnight mask and regular facial massage to the above.
Why does my skin have no glow?
One of the most common causes of dull skin is dehydration. When your skin doesn’t have enough moisture, it can’t reflect light properly, which is key to a radiant, glowing look. You might also notice tightness, flakiness or fine lines becoming more pronounced. Using a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and following it with a moisturiser is an effective way to overcome dehydration. In addition, drinking plenty of water throughout the day supports hydration from within. Not drinking enough water can cause dehydration and make you look dull and pale.
So now you know how to get glowing skin, it’s time to level up your routine and treat your complexion to a little more hydration, protection and TLC - because radiant, healthy skin is always in.

Cult Beauty’s Senior SEO Copywriter, Trifonia started out in the industry when bold brows were just becoming a ‘thing’, and shares a passion for all things fashion and beauty. Currently embracing her curly girl journey (after endless years of straightening her strands), she is finally reverting to her natural ways! When Triffy isn’t busy testing out the latest curl-saving solutions, you’ll find her binging the latest reality TV show or on a long walk listening to her ever-evolving country music playlist.