Today’s forecast is all about cloud skin, the makeup look that’s taking social media (and our collective faces) by storm. It delivers a hazy, soft-focus finish to skin that’s radiant without being dewy. And it is, technically, matte. But today’s matte makeup isn’t like that of the past, where oily skin types relied on it to nix any hint of shine. Rather, it’s more of a filtered glow. Sure, there’s no pop of shine—but it’s also not totally flat. The beauty is that your skin has more dimension to it.
Plus, cloud skin works for every skin type, since everyone benefits from a soft glow. Better yet: It doesn’t require an arsenal of products, an expert’s steady hand, or an earlier wake-up time. Instead, you can score it for yourself in a matter of minutes with the makeup essentials you know and love. Here’s how to make the most of it.
What is cloud skin?
Cloud skin is the newest interpretation of matte skin—one that’s super approachable. It lends skin a soft glow with a velvety texture, giving your face dimension and radiance without letting shine steal the spotlight.
What products do I need for cloud skin?
Since the goal of cloud skin is to get that blurred complexion, blurring products are, of course, key. “Pore Eclipse Mattifying Primer is my favorite for this,” says Sara Wren, our Director of Artistry. “I keep calling it the IG Paris filter in a bottle. It immediately softens the look of pores and skin texture without drying or adding weight.” Also important is a mattifying setting spray, like Pore Eclipse Matte Setting Spray. Not only does it extend the lifespan of your cloud skin look, but its weightless formula also controls shine, blurs pores, and leaves skin with an all-around soft finish.
With those on hand, here’s how to get the most of this dreamy makeup trend.
Prep + PrimeA good makeup look always starts with prepped skin. First, apply a dab ofVegan Milk Moisturizerto clean skin, focusing on any dry areas; this will help ensure your base goes on smoothly. Then, dispense a dime-sized amount of Pore Eclipse Primer to the back of your hand. Working in sections, use your fingers to apply it to your cheeks, chin, nose, and areas that tend to be prone to excess shine. |
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ConcealForgo foundation and use concealer to touch up certain areas; that’ll keep it from looking one-dimensional. Using the built-in Dab + Swipe Applicator, applyFuture Fluid All Over Cream Concealerin crescent shapes beneath your eyes, around your nostrils, down the sides of your nose, and anywhere else you want some coverage. Then, use a dampPrism Spongeto blend it in. |
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Bronzer + BlushSounds like an oxymoron, but cloudy skin can—and should—still look sunkissed and fresh. SwipeMatte Bronzerfrom the apple of your cheek out to each temple, and across the bridge of the nose. Blend it in well with a soft, dense brush. Then, swipeLip + Cheekdirectly onto your cheeks, before patting it in with your fingers to blend. |
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SetAdd another layer of haze with a mattifying setting spray, which (bonus) ensures your hard work doesn’t budge. Shake the Pore Eclipse Matte Setting Spray well, then spritz it onto your makeup sponge. Bounce the dampened sponge over your skin, pressing the setting spray over your makeup to set and diffuse it. Optionally, press a soft powder puff into your skin to further the look, making sure to get to the lower lash line and around your hairline and jawline. |
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MascaraWith your complexion set, literally, it’s time for the last detail. While there’s no need for a full eye look, since the skin is the star here, finish with a few swipes ofRISE Mascaraonyour upper lashes—then enjoy the cloudy days ahead. |
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Meet the Expert
Sara Wren (she/her) is the Director of Artistry at Milk Makeup. In her role, she does all the makeup artistry and direction for our Milk Makeup global campaigns, educates the staff and field team on application methods, stars in the brand’s social media videos, and travels to different markets spreading Milk Makeup’s good vibes. When she’s not on set, Sara loves experimenting with DIY hair colors, eating tacos, watching basketball, and scouring for vintage cosmetics to add to her impressive collection.
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