As far as foundation goes, finish is equally as crucial as color. If you're going for a smooth, shine-free look or a healthy, lit-from-within glow, understanding the distinction between matte and dewy finishes can enable you to choose the most appropriate product for your skin type and finish.

So, what's the difference—and how do you decide which one is best for you? In this guide, we'll break it all down, from skin type compatibility to finish goals, and help you decide which makeup finish is best for you. Plus, we'll give you a few versatile product recs (that you can shop right in our boutique!) to get you started.

                                                                                  

What's the Difference Between Matte and Dewy?

Prior to diving into what works for whom, let's quickly define each finish:

• Matte Finish: Provides a smooth, shine-free look with minimal glow. Matte foundations and powders are oil-absorbing, making them perfect for a polished, long-lasting finish.

• Dewy Finish: Provides a luminous, hydrated look. Dewy foundations and setting sprays are designed to reflect light and make your skin appear healthy and radiant—a wonderful choice for a fresh, youthful look.

There is a time and a place for both finishes in your routine. It is all about when and where you use them.

                                                                                                              

If You Have Oily or Combination Skin: Matte Is Your Best Friend

If you are one whose skin oilies up during the day, then you likely live for a matte finish. Matte foundations keep shine in check, pores minimized, and that midday greasiness so many of us know so well at bay.

Look for a matte foundation with oil control and buildable coverage, and apply it with a setting powder to lock everything in. Complete your look with a matte setting spray to extend wear time and keep your base intact from morning until night.

???? Tip: If you have oily skin but love a bit of glow, use matte products on your T-zone and highlight only the areas that matter, like the high points of your cheeks.

                                                                                                              

If You Have Dry or Mature Skin: Dewy Is the Way to Glow

Dry or mature skin can be moisture-deprived and might appear dull without the right products. A dewy finish adds moisture and radiance back to your skin, giving skin a plump, healthy, and revitalized appearance.

Choose a moisturizing foundation or BB cream with a luminous finish. Skip heavy powders and set with a dewy setting spray to refresh your look and give skin a radiant glow all day long.

???? Pro Tip: Wearing a glow-enhancing primer beneath your foundation can give your luminosity an extra boost.

                                                                                                              

For Normal or Balanced Skin: You Can Take Your Pick

If your skin is neither too oily nor too dry, you're in the sweet spot—you can switch between matte and dewy finishes according to the occasion, season, or mood.

• For office or all-day wear makeup, opt for matte.
• For weekend brunch, days off, or whenever you're in the mood for that lit-from-within glow, opt for dewy.

Better yet, mix and match! Use a matte foundation on your oily spots and a liquid highlighter or illuminating blush on the high points of your face for balance.

                                                                                                              

Still Unsure? Try This:

Touch your skin at noon when you're not wearing makeup. If it's oily, matte is likely a better base. If it's dry or tight, go for dewy.

Notice how your makeup holds up in the evening. If you get shiny in your T-zone, matte products will hold that at bay. If your makeup starts to crack or settle into lines, dewy products may be the hydration you need.

                                                                                                              

Final Thoughts: It's All About Balance and Personal Preference

Whether you want a shine-free matte finish or a luminous dewy finish, the right product should enhance, not hide, your skin. Understanding your skin type and finish preference makes it easy to choose products that are appropriate for you.

Browse our collection to find matte and dewy makeup essentials—from foundation and BB creams to setting sprays and highlighters. Regardless of your skin type, we've got something to make you feel and look amazing.