Achieving that perfect beachy, sun kissed makeup look has become a must have trend, especially as the weather warms up and beach days get closer.
Whether you’re headed to the beach, a rooftop party, or just want a fresh glow to your daily routine, this look is effortless, yet glowing and chic. But how do you recreate that radiant, sunlit glow without actually spending hours in the sun?
Don’t worry, you can get the sun kissed makeup look using just a few simple products and techniques. In this guide, we’ll break down each step to help you achieve that glowing, natural finish.
Start with a Radiant Base
The secret to any beachy makeup look is a healthy, radiant complexion. Since the goal is to achieve a natural glow, it’s essential not to cover up your skin but to enhance its natural beauty.
Step 1: Hydration is Key
Before applying any makeup, it’s crucial to prep your skin by hydrating it. Dry, flaky skin won’t give you the smooth, glowing base you need for the perfect sun kissed makeup look.
Start with a hydrating moisturizer that suits your skin type, whether it’s a lightweight gel based one for oily skin or a richer, nourishing cream for dry skin.
Tip: If you have dry patches, apply a nourishing serum before your moisturizer. This step ensures your skin stays dewy throughout the day.
Step 2: Light Coverage Foundation
For the perfect sun kissed makeup look, go for a light to medium coverage foundation or a BB cream. A thick, full coverage foundation can hide the natural glow that you’re trying to highlight.
Instead, opt for a foundation that lets your skin breathe. A good BB cream can hydrate your skin while providing just enough coverage to even out your complexion.
If you want extra luminosity, mix a liquid highlighter into your foundation. This will give you a more glowing, radiant finish, as if the sun naturally kissed your face.
Recommended Product:
- IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream A great option for a light and dewy base with SPF.
Step 3: Use a Primer for Longevity
To keep your makeup intact throughout the day (and night), apply a glowy primer. A hydrating primer can give you a smooth base and also help your makeup last longer. Look for one that contains light reflecting properties to give you that dewy, healthy finish.
Tip: Be sure to focus on your T-zone if you tend to get oily there while keeping the rest of your face glowing.
Sun Kissed Bronzer: Your Best Friend
Bronzer is an absolute must have in achieving a beachy makeup look. It’s what gives you that warmth and sun kissed glow.
But, there’s a fine line between a sun kissed glow and looking like you spent the whole day in the tanning bed. You want a soft, natural finish.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Bronzer
For the perfect sun kissed makeup look, choose a bronzer that complements your skin tone. If you have fair skin, go for a bronzer with a cooler undertone. For those with medium or olive skin, a golden or warm bronzer will look best.
Here’s a quick guide on which bronzer shades work best for different skin tones:
| Skin Tone | Best Bronzer Shade |
| Fair | Light and Cool Tones |
| Medium | Golden or Warm Tones |
| Deep/Dark | Deep, Rich Tones |
Step 2: Applying the Bronzer
To create that sun kissed effect, apply bronzer to the high points of your face where the sun naturally hits. This includes:
- Cheekbones
- Temples
- Jawline
- Bridge of the nose
Use a fluffy bronzing brush to apply bronzer in a “3” shape on each side of your face, from your forehead down to your cheekbones and along your jawline. This technique adds warmth and definition without making your makeup look too harsh.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to blend your bronzer down your neck and chest for a seamless, sun kissed glow.
Blush: Adding That Natural Flush
A beachy look isn’t complete without a touch of blush. Blush adds a healthy, fresh pop of color to your cheeks, giving you a youthful, sunlit vibe.
Step 1: Cream vs. Powder Blush
For a beachy, natural look, cream blushes work best because they blend seamlessly into the skin and give a more dewy finish. However, if you prefer a powder blush, go for one that has a bit of shimmer for that glowing effect.
Tip: Cream blushes are usually more long lasting, making them perfect for a hot summer day.
Step 2: Where to Apply Blush
Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks, then blend it outward toward your temples. For a truly beachy effect, you can also dab a little blush onto the tip of your nose. This gives you that adorable, “I’ve been in the sun all day” effect.
Recommended Product:
- Glossier Cloud Paint A light, buildable cream blush that delivers a natural flush of color.
Highlighter for the Ultimate Glow
A beachy makeup look requires highlight but not just any highlight. For this look, you want a soft, dewy highlighter that enhances your skin’s natural radiance.
Stay away from powder highlighters with a lot of glitter; they can be too intense for a natural, sun kissed look.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Highlighter
When it comes to highlighter, a liquid or cream highlighter is your best bet. These formulas melt into your skin, giving you a radiant, healthy glow. Look for a highlighter that’s golden, pearl, or champagne in tone for that perfect, subtle shine.
Tip: A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and build up if necessary.
Step 2: Applying the Highlighter
Apply the highlighter to the high points of your face for a naturally lit from within glow. Focus on:
- Top of your cheekbones
- Bridge of your nose
- Cupid’s bow
- Brow bone
- Tip of your chin
Bonus Tip: You can also apply a bit of highlighter to your collarbones and shoulders for an extra luminous glow.
Keep the Eyes Soft and Subtle
For a beachy makeup look, your eyes should complement your radiant skin, not compete with it. Neutral, soft tones work best for this look, focusing on enhancing your natural eye shape.
Step 1: Choose Warm, Neutral Shades
Stick to warm, natural shades such as soft browns, peachy nudes, and golden tones. For a bit of shimmer, choose a light, glowy eyeshadow that enhances your natural eye color.
Tip: Skip the harsh black eyeliner and use a soft brown or bronze pencil instead. This adds definition without overpowering your soft, beachy look.
Step 2: Light, Fluffy Lashes
Long, fluttery lashes are a must for this look. Apply a few coats of waterproof mascara to your upper and lower lashes to create volume and length. You can even try individual lashes or a subtle strip for added fullness.
Pro Tip: To avoid smudging, use waterproof mascara, especially if you plan on being near water.
Bold, Natural Brows
Brows are important, but for the perfect beachy look, you want to keep them soft and natural. Avoid overly sculpted brows or dark, harsh lines.
Step 1: Keep It Light
Use a brow gel or brow pencil that matches your natural brow color. Gently fill in any sparse areas, but focus more on shaping rather than defining.
Tip: For a more natural look, brush your brows upward to give them a soft, tousled appearance.
Finish with the Perfect Beachy Lip
Your lips should complete the look with a natural, soft color that’s easy to wear and maintain throughout the day.
Step 1: Hydrating Lip Color
Choose a tinted lip balm or gloss in a peachy, nude, or soft pink shade. These shades will keep your lips looking fresh and hydrated without being too bold. You want a product that feels light and comfortable, as you’ll be wearing it all day long.
Step 2: Apply Gloss for Extra Shine
If you want a bit more shine, add a gloss on top. This will not only give your lips a fuller look but also make them appear more hydrated.
Recommended Product:
- Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm A hydrating and natural lip balm that gives a perfect beachy color.
FAQs About Getting the Perfect Beachy, Sun Kissed Makeup Look
- What type of foundation is best for a sun kissed makeup look?
A lightweight foundation or BB cream with a hydrating, dewy finish works best. It lets your skin’s natural beauty shine through while still evening out your complexion. - How can I make my bronzer look more natural?
Use a fluffy brush and apply the bronzer in a “3” shape along your face, blending well. Choose a bronzer with golden undertones to avoid looking too orange. - What highlighter should I use for a sun kissed look?
Opt for a liquid or cream highlighter in champagne, gold, or pearl shades for a soft, dewy glow. - Can I use powder blush for a beachy look?
Yes, but choose one with a bit of shimmer to give your skin a natural, radiant flush. - Should I use waterproof mascara for a beachy look?
Yes, especially if you’re going to be near water. Waterproof mascara will keep your lashes looking fresh all day long.
Final Thoughts
Achieving the perfect beachy, sun kissed makeup look isn’t as difficult as it may seem. By using the right products, applying them strategically, and focusing on enhancing your skin’s natural radiance, you can rock this look any time of the year.
Whether you’re planning a trip to the beach or just want to glow like you just spent the day in the sun, follow these steps, and you’ll be glowing in no time!
Embrace your natural beauty and let your skin shine!