It’s rare for me to encounter a skincare trend that I can genuinely support. Most of the ones that catch my attention seem absurd, poorly conceived, and occasionally even hazardous. Consequently, I tend to avoid skincare trends altogether.
However, the “poolside skin” trend has caught my attention because it genuinely embraces healthy skincare practices. In general, the allure of poolside skin lies in its authenticity. It doesn’t strive to create a fake glow; instead, it cultivates a natural one. What distinguishes the poolside skin trend is its inclusivity, accessibility, and a foundation rooted in science-backed skincare.
What Is Poolside Skin?
“Poolside skin” is a popular summer beauty trend that aims to recreate the sleek, ultra-hydrated, and reflective sheen that your skin achieves immediately after swimming. The trend aims for a natural dewy look, achieved through deep skin barrier care and the use of lightweight, moisture-locking products. Rather than relying on illuminating pigments or highlighters, this trend celebrates skincare that visibly improves the skin’s condition. The result is a hydrated, resilient, and naturally radiant complexion that looks great in sunlight and feels just as good.
How to Get Poolside Skin
“Poolside skin” is characterized by a glossy, light-reflecting finish across the face and body. It focuses on deep hydration for plump, supple skin that reflects your natural skin tone and texture. Here’s how to get the look:
Prep with Gentle Exfoliation: To achieve a perfectly smooth base that reflects light evenly, use a gentle face and body scrub. Removing dead cells helps hydrating products adhere evenly to the skin without clumping.
Layer Deep Hydration: Saturate your skin with water-binding ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or niacinamide. For your face, try using a skin-plumping base layer such as a facial mist to instantly enhance your skin’s natural glow. For your body, apply a rich moisturizer or hydrating mousse immediately after showering to lock in maximum moisture.
Protect with a High-Glow SPF: Sun protection is essential for this trend. Apply a generous amount of SPF 30 or higher to your face and body and allow it to absorb for 5 minutes. Opt for chemical or tinted mineral sunscreens that provide a radiant, slightly dewy finish instead of a matte or powdery texture.
Opt for Skincare-Makeup Hybrids: While makeup isn’t necessary for this trend, you’ll want to skip heavy foundations entirely. If you still want coverage, use a sheer skin tint containing nourishing oils and squalane.
Lock in the Gloss: The final step is what gives the trend its signature “submerged” look. For the face, dab a clear face gloss or barrier balm onto the high points of your cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose. For the body, apply a high-shine body oil across your collarbones, shoulders, and shins.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to sacrifice the health and safety of your skin to get a glowy summer look. “Poolside skin” is a great way to channel your inner sun goddess while keeping your skin well-nourished and protected. So, this season, slather yourself in shine and bask in the glory of a gleamy, dreamy summer. Just remember to tip the cabana boy.