A literal glow-up? Yes, it’s possible. You don’t have to wait for summer or your next vacation to get a radiant, sun-kissed complexion. From the way you prep your skin to the specific makeup you apply, the products you choose are the secret to transforming dullness into instant radiance.
At IT Cosmetics, we believe that makeup should do more than just cover—it should care. Keep reading to unlock a next-level glow with our must-have, dermatologist-approved skincare and makeup essentials.
Why Glowing Skin Starts with Skincare
Before we pick up a brush, we have to talk about the canvas. Many people try to "create" a glow using only highlighters, but true radiance comes from within the skin. When your skin is dehydrated or congested, light doesn't reflect off the surface evenly, leading to a dull appearance.
By focusing on a glowing skin routine that emphasizes hydration and barrier support, you create a smooth, plump surface. This "lit-from-within" effect means you can use less makeup while achieving a more natural, healthy finish. Dermatologists agree: a strong moisture barrier is the foundation of any radiant look.
Your 6-Step Glowing Skin Routine
Follow these steps to transition your skin from "tired" to "transformed."
Step 1: Cleanse with a Gentle Facial Cleanser
For the ultimate glow, you need a fresh start. Use a gentle and hydrating facial cleanser that removes impurities without stripping away essential moisture.
Try IT: Confidence in a Cleanser
How to Use IT:
• Morning and night, gently massage Confidence in a Cleanser onto wet skin for 30 seconds. This gives the Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides time to settle into the skin.
• Rinse and pat dry with a soft towel. Skin will be left feeling soft, refreshed, and perfectly balanced.
Pro Tip:Use lukewarm water. Water that is too hot can dry out your skin and cause redness, which works against your glow goals.
Step 2: Hydrate with an Anti-Aging Moisturizer
Lock in hydration while solving the top signs of aging skin with a daily anti-aging cream. A well-moisturized face reflects light better, giving you an instant visual boost.
Try IT: Confidence in a Cream Anti-Aging Moisturizer
Pro Insight: This is the #1 women’s anti-aging face cream in the US* for a reason. It supports your skin moisture barrier, which is vital for keeping that "plump" look all day long.
How to Use IT:
• Apply a quarter-size amount to your clean face, neck, and décolleté.
• Use gentle, upward sweeping motions. This helps with lymphatic drainage and creates a lifted appearance.
Step 3: Protect + Prime with Sunscreen
Sun damage is the fastest way to lose your glow. Protecting your skin from UV rays and pollution is a non-negotiable step.
Try IT: Hello Sunshine Invisible Sunscreen for Face SPF 50
How to Use IT:
• This is a 3-in-1 daily sunscreen, hydrating serum, and skin-perfecting primer.
• On bare skin, apply generously 15 minutes before sun exposure. It leaves an invisible finish that works beautifully under makeup.
Pro Tip:Dr. Camille Howard, board-certified dermatologist, says, “I always tell my patients: buy the SPF you will actually use! It’s imperative we use SPF every day.”
Step 4: Perfect + Correct with a CC Cream
Now that the skin is prepped, let’s perfect the complexion. For a "no-makeup" look that still glows, choose a skin tint with a brightening serum.
Try IT: CC+ Nude Glow Lightweight Foundation + Glow Serum with SPF 40, Heavenly Luxe® Complexion Perfection Brush #7
Why IT Works: With 2% niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, this CC cream acts like skincare while providing medium coverage.
How to Use IT:
• Apply 1-2 pumps using your brush.
Buff in circular motions starting from the center of the face and moving outward for a seamless, healthy glow finish.
Step 5: Conceal with Brightening Concealer
Banish dullness under the eyes or spot conceal dark spots with a concealer that actually treats your skin while it hides imperfections.
Try IT: Bye Bye Dark Spots Concealer + Serum
How to Use IT:
• Use the doe-foot applicator to tap directly onto dark circles or spots.
• Use the built-in kabuki brush to "stipple" (tap repeatedly). This provides better coverage and a more natural finish than rubbing.
Step 6: Glow with a Sun-Kissed Cream Blush
Finish your look with a sun-blushed color that adds dimension. A cream-based formula is best for glowing skin because it melts into the skin rather than sitting on top of it.
Try IT: Do It All Serum Color Balm Sun Cream Blush & Bronzer, Heavenly Luxe® Cream Blush Brush #3
Pro Insight:Dr. Julia Tzu notes, “With its 92% solid serum base, this Sun Blush gives my skin a smoothing effect.”
How to Use IT:
• Tap your brush into the jar 1-2 times.
• Apply slightly above the apples of the cheeks, blending up toward the temples. This creates a "lifted" glow.
Now that you’ve mastered this glowing skin routine, learn how to remove waterproof mascara safely and gently.
