Photo via @aishapotter
Clear, healthy skin is always on the menu, but this season’s approach goes beyond a diligent skincare routine. The hyperreal skin trend puts skin first. The goal is a complexion that looks sculpted and naturally glowy – achieved through more intentional makeup application rather than heavy coverage. In many ways, it feels like a response to our increasingly digital world. In the era of AI, this trend moves in the opposite direction. Texture is welcome. Freckles remain visible. Skin still looks like skin. It’s a move that proves authenticity always wins in a beauty landscape increasingly defined by artificiality.
Skin Prep
The entire premise of this trend relies on a base that looks healthy and hydrated, so taking the time to flood the complexion with moisture is essential. After cleansing and toning, press a lightweight emulsion into the skin to deliver hydration while encouraging a natural glow. From there, apply a generous layer of serum-based SPF to protect the skin while maintaining that fresh, dewy finish. Complete your prep with a nourishing lip balm so the entire complexion, from skin to lips, feels soft and conditioned.
Enhancement
When it comes to complexion products, application matters just as much as the formulas themselves. Rather than applying foundation directly to the face, dispense a small amount of a high-coverage formula, such as NARS Light Reflecting Foundation, onto the back of your hand. Swirl a fluffy brush into the product first, then buff it onto the skin using light, sweeping motions. This technique creates an incredibly sheer veil of coverage that looks more like naturally flawless skin than foundation. This is also why proper skin prep is so important. If the complexion is dehydrated, these sheer layers can emphasize texture and dry patches.
Repeat the same brush technique with cream bronzer and a mauve-toned blush, gradually building warmth and dimension until the complexion looks naturally flushed and subtly sculpted. Then switch to a smaller, more precise brush for concealer. Apply a tiny amount to the back of your hand, work it into the bristles, and spot conceal only where needed. Finally, drench the skin with a hydrating setting spray to melt all the layers together and lock in moisture.
Now, you can continue with the rest of your makeup routine, or simply stop and let your hyperreal base do the rest.
