How to Get "Satin" Skin, According to a Celebrity Makeup Artist

By Ariel Baker
Getty | Steve Granitz
Getty | Steve Granitz
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  • Experts predict that "satin" skin will trend in 2022.
  • The look is a new take on dewy base makeup that favors a more subdued approach.
  • A celebrity makeup artist shares how to achieve the "satin" skin trend at home.

People with oily skin can finally rejoice: the beauty world seems to be taking a step back from the ultra dewy (aka cream, aka "dolphin") skin-care trends of the past. In the last two years, people have pared back their makeup routines but still want to look good on Zoom, which has led to lots of glow to counteract harsh lighting. Now in 2022, with the world reopening yet again, there's a new, less high-maintenance trend taking precedence: "satin" skin.

Professional makeup artist Ehlie Luna first predicted that satin skin would dominate this year after her clients noted that their dewy makeup didn't have much staying power. But what exactly does that look like, exactly?

According to celebrity makeup artist Mary Phillips — who works with everyone from Jennifer Lopez to Addison Rae — satin skin is all about a controlled glow. Satin skin "gives a super smooth, soft finish that still looks matte in areas but is not overly done," Phillips says. "We've seen ultra glowy, hydrated skin this past year, but [now] it's important to contain the shine and place the glow only where you want it."

If you're looking to try your hand at creating satin skin at home, Phillips shared some tips on how best to achieve the look, ahead.

Tip 1: Prep the Skin For the "Satin" Effect

"Great makeup starts with a great complexion, and that's all in your base products of primer, foundation, and concealer," Phillips says. "So for satin skin, I'd recommend [your favorite] formulas that give you a super smooth, even finish, but don't look or feel heavy [on the skin]."

Phillips recommends primers that help "absorb oil and control shine." Her favorite? The Hourglass Vanish Airbrush Primer ($56).

Tip 2: Don't Overdo It on the Foundation

Pro tip to getting the "satin" skin effect: start small, then build from there. "I like to go in with just a little bit of foundation because you don't want to add too much and risk looking overdone," Phillips says. "You can always add more foundation if you need extra coverage, but removing it is more difficult. Use a formula that is super buildable, like a stick or a cream foundation."

Tip 3: Look For a Brightening Concealer

An unexpected tip to try? Use a brightening concealer to highlight certain areas of your face. "Use a concealer that's highly pigmented and buildable," Phillips says. "The higher concentration of pigment will give you a little extra highlight and glow that won't look shiny."

We like the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Treatment Makeup ($10) for its sponge applicator and blendable formula. Phillips recommends the Hourglass's Vanish Airbrush Concealer ($16-$36), which she says "gives a soft glow, but still provides that silky smooth coverage that feels super lightweight."