Dolphin skin: What to know about the viral makeup trend



CNN
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There’s no shortage of beauty trends and viral makeup tips online. But every so often, we’ll discover a look or trend that just makes perfect sense for the moment we’re in. And in an age where “your skin but better” reigns supreme, folks are opting for lip balms over lipstick, and natural, bushy brows are all the rage — it’s no wonder dolphin skin is showing up all over Instagram.

“Dolphin skin is a beauty term that’s being used to describe a glistening, hydrated, ‘fresh out of the water’ makeup look,” explains Mary Phillips, a professional makeup artist who’s worked with celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner. “Dolphins are known for their smooth, plump, reflective skin, so I think it’s a perfect, fun way to describe this aesthetic.”

While a quick Instagram search may lead you to believe Phillips invented the trend, she doesn’t take credit for coining the term. Nevertheless, she’s “beyond flattered” that her signature dewy look has taken on a name and life of its own. “I’m so excited to see the dolphin skin look trending and getting so popular,” Phillips shares, “because I’ve always found youthful glowing skin that just enhances one’s own natural beauty to be timeless.”

Ahead, we’ve consulted various beauty experts on how to achieve dolphin skin. From the products they swear by to the techniques they use on their own clients, here’s everything you need to know.

Unlike other skin care trends like “glass skin”

What is dolphin skin? What to know about the viral beauty trend

First, there was slugging. Now, there’s “dolphin skin,” the latest animal-inspired beauty trend to make its way across our social media feeds.

Just as you might expect, the goal is to make your skin look as shiny and smooth as the marine mammals. “Dolphin skin is the ultimate glowy finish, as if you just stepped out of the water, and your skin is radiant, fresh and luminous in all of the right places,” celebrity makeup artist Katie Mellinger told Shop TODAY.

Because of that, it’s the perfect look for the summer. Makeup artist Cara Lovello added that it’s a great choice for a pool or a beach party. “It doesn’t look cakey, it’s just light and fresh and people will wonder if it’s a natural glow from your sunscreen,” she said.

We asked the two makeup artists to walk us through the steps and the products that you can use to achieve a glowing “dolphin skin” look.

To prep

Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre 24-Hour Miracle Cream

Making sure your skin is properly hydrated is key and Lovello said she likes this cream, which works as both a moisturizer and a primer. Suitable for all skin types, it nourishes, softens and protects skin with the help of ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera and beeswax.

Glossier Futuredew

After applying a face cream, Mellinger applies a glowing serum, like this one from Glossier, which she called “a power player for dewy skin.”

NARS Radiance Primer Broad Spectrum SPF 35 Sunscreen

While the Embryolisse