There’s a reason glowing skin hasn’t gone out of style: beauty fads may come and go, but radiant skin is an important indicator of skin health. Lately, social media influencers have taken the idea to new levels: featuring a super-dewy look dubbed dolphin skin.

Time to test the waters (couldn’t resist) and try this TikTok and Instagram trend: read on, and we’ll show you exactly how to achieve dolphin skin.

What is dolphin skin?

The name says it all: dolphin skin is slick, plump and reflective — it almost looks like you’ve just emerged from the water. Though she doesn’t take credit for coining the term, the trend is commonly associated with celebrity makeup artist Mary Phillips, whose clients include JLo and Kim Kardashian.

Fans of dolphin skin say it imparts a dewy, youthful glow that — when executed well — looks natural in person, and photographs beautifully.

What’s the difference between glass skin and dolphin skin?

These trends are quite similar: both strive for skin with a smooth, hydrated sheen. Here’s how they’re different:

• Glass skin is originally a K-Beauty trend that features super-smooth, poreless, luminous skin achieved through skincare.
• Dolphin skin is originally an American makeup technique that features a next-level, almost “wet” looking glow.

How do you get dolphin skin?

Any professional makeup artist will tell you that a flawless look begins with healthy, radiant skin. A smooth, clean complexion provides the perfect canvas for creating dewy, reflective dolphin skin — here’s how to do it.

What makes skin glow

We’ve talked about glowing skin before: it really comes down to two main factors:

• Healthy skin: this means skin is functioning optimally — it’s hydrated and moisturized, and protected from damaging inflammation.
• Fresh, young skin: a buildup of old, dead cells on the skin’s surface doesn’t reflect light well, whereas skin with a robust cell turnover creates a smoother surface.

Skincare you need for dolphin skin

Following a consistent skincare routine that follows a cleanse, treat, moisturize philosophy customized for your skin’s needs will help achieve that radiant glow. Here are a few of Dr. Sandra Lee’s favorite ingredients for the job:

• Salicylic acid: this beta hydroxy acid penetrates into pores to clear out excess oil and debris while also exfoliating. Try SLMD Salicylic Acid Cleanser, which is gentle enough for daily use. Add AHA/BHA Swipes — which also contain glycolic acid to further exfoliate — 2-3 times weekly.
• Vitamin C: a powerful antioxidant that's known for boosting collagen production and brightening the skin. Find it in SLMD Vitamin C Serum, which also hydrates with added hyaluronic acid.
• Retinol: a vitamin A derivative that speeds up the rate of cell turnover, revealing fresher, younger skin more frequently. SLMD Retinol Resurfacing Serum is ideal for acne-prone and aging skin alike. 
• Hyaluronic Acid: one of the best skin hydrators, this naturally-occurring substance helps plump skin to minimize fine lines and wrinkles and lend a dewy look. SLMD Hyaluronic Acid Serum also contains squalane, to both hydrate and moisturize.

Steps for creating the dolphin skin look

As we mentioned earlier, achieving dolphin skin requires a combination of the consistent skincare routine we just talked about, plus a specific series of steps.

Step 1: Cleanse with a mild chemical exfoliating face wash like Salicylic Acid Cleanser.

Step 2: Apply Vitamin C Serum (for day), plus a hydrating serum and moisturizer (try SLMD Dual Defender SPF 30 for day, or Facial Moisturizer for night).

Step 3: Swipe a light-diffusing primer or liquid highlighter along the cheekbones and bridge of your nose.

Step 4: Apply a thin layer of illuminating foundation over your entire face. For even more glow, mix in a drop or two of Hyaluronic Acid Serum.

Step 5: Blend a neutral cream blush onto cheeks.

Step 6: Add a second layer of non-shimmer highlighter along the cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the brow bones, and cupid’s bow.

Step 7: Finish with a very light layer of translucent powder to set, and a swipe of nude gloss on the lips.