In 2010, we were all obsessed with all-things-matte. We just saved and shared photos of nude matte lips, smoky eyes and out-there contour. In 2020, we wanted everything to be glossy. Glass skin, jello skin, dolphin skin, glazed doughnut skin—it was all about looking glassy, shiny and reflective.
In 2024, we’ve reached a middle ground. Enter: cloud skin, a marriage of the two looks, where your skin looks soft, dreamy, opaque and blurred. Makeup is a good way to get there, but skin prep goes a long way. Here’s how to get the luminous, fluffy effect.
What should your cloud skin skincare routine look like?
Achieving that ethereal, blurred out "cloud skin" look starts long before you even touch foundation. The secret weapon? Deep hydration. Ditch the harsh cleansers and swap them for gentle, milky formulas that remove impurities without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier. Follow up with a hydrating serum or essence packed with hyaluronic acid, a hero ingredient for its ability to hold onto moisture.
Try: Our Amrutini® Luminosity Dewdrops a daily-use elixir is perfect for hydrating and plumping the skin. Hyaluronic acid, a powerful humectant, attracts and retains moisture, reducing fine lines and promoting a smooth, supple complexion. The addition of muga silk offers regenerative and healing properties, enhancing skin vitality. Antioxidants from ashwagandha and makaibari tea leaves protect the skin from environmental stressors, ensuring a radiant and balanced appearance.
Layer on a lightweight, dewy moisturizer to lock it all in, and don't forget SPF—protecting your skin from sun damage is key to maintaining a healthy, youthful glow. By the time you reach for your makeup, your skin will be prepped for soft-focus finish that's the very definition of cloud skin.
Try: Our Amrutini® Precious Potion, which is a moisturizer that harnesses the regenerative and healing properties of ghee, a revered ingredient known for its regenerating and anti-aging characteristics. Ghee is rich in essential fatty acids and vitamins, which help in deeply moisturizing the skin and enhancing its elasticity. When combined with copper, known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to stimulate collagen production, this blend significantly reduces inflammation, promoting a smoother, more youthful complexion. Just ask Jinnie Lee from Refinery29, who says it has “glow-up powers similar to a subtle highlighter stick but for all over the face".
For an extra boost, consider incorporating targeted treatments into your routine. Sheet masks are a pampering way to deliver a concentrated dose of hydration, and can add an extra layer of dewy goodness, especially for drier skin types. Another tactic is to layer skincare - for e.g. layering two complementary serums of different consistencies will make skin extra supple, plump and “bouncy”. Remember, consistency is key – the more you prioritize hydration in your skincare routine, the closer you'll be to achieving that coveted cloud skin look.
What should your cloud skin makeup routine look like?
Building the cloud means ditching the heavy foundations. Opt for a lightweight or sheer foundation with a dewy or radiant finish. Apply a thin layer with a damp beauty sponge or fluffy brush for a natural, airbrushed look. After, use a radiant concealer a shade lighter than your foundation to target specific areas like under-eye circles or blemishes. Apply with a small brush or your fingertips and blend seamlessly.
While cloud skin focuses on a natural glow, you can still add some definition to your face. Use a cream bronzer to warm up your complexion and add a subtle hint of contour. Apply it to the hollows of your cheeks, your forehead hairline, and jawline. Opt for a cream or liquid blush in a soft pink or peach shade. Apply it to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples for a healthy flush. While cloud skin isn't about heavy shimmer, you can add a touch of strategic highlighting to enhance your natural glow. Apply a cream or liquid highlighter to your cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow. To lock in your cloud skin and achieve that soft-matte finish, use a translucent setting powder. Apply a light dusting with a fluffy brush.