"Stained-Glass Skin" Makeup Is In For Spring

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Picture a stained-glass window: the window panes are often semitranslucent and colorful and have rays of light shining through. The latest makeup trend, "stained-glass skin," is inspired by that and achieves it through base makeup with light finishes, sheer coverage, and beaming skin.

You may think that the complexion category doesn't see many trends — at least not as many as eye makeup or lipstick — but "cloud skin", and now "stained-glass skin," would say otherwise. If you're firmly in the no-makeup makeup camp, this look is likely right up your alley. It favors creamy formulas that give you the best of both worlds: color without compromising on that real-skin finish.

"'Stained-glass skin' means that you can still see your skin through the makeup," Stevie Rose, director of education and resident makeup artist for Saie, tells POPSUGAR. "The pigment level in the product will be on the lower side and mixed into a creamy or balmy formula that has a glowy, reflective finish."

MILAN, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 25: A model poses in the backstage of the Ermanno Scervino fashion show during the Milan Fashion Week - Spring / Summer 2022 on September 25, 2021 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Rosdiana Ciaravolo/Getty Images)
Getty | Rosdiana Ciaravolo

The key to getting the look at home is using skin-care-makeup hybrid products packed with lots of moisture. If you choose to wear foundation, opt for something nearly untraceable with a radiant finish, like the Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint ($42), the Saie Slip Tint ($38), or the Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint ($35). You can use your hands, a foundation brush, or a damp makeup sponge to apply it — whatever gives you a smooth, natural-looking result.

Lastly, you'll want to add some highlighter, blush, and bronzer. "Add a pop of shine to the high points of your cheeks with a hydrating face illuminator and use a finishing powder to the T-zone that will set your look, but not dull your shine," Rose says. The Laura Mercier Real Flawless Luminous Perfecting Pressed Powder ($48) is a great option for this.

The final result should still look like your skin, just elevated, with some color cosmetics to really make it shine.