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How to Get an Underglow for Lit-From-Within Makeup That Lasts

Underpainting, but make it glowy.

There’s a lot to love about our new Hydro Grip + Glow Primer. Like the iconic Hydro Grip Primer, it locks in makeup for up to 12 hours, plus it lends a golden-hour luminosity, right at the jump of your makeup routine. Bonus: it’s simply perfect for what we call an “underglow.”

Think of underglow as an updated version of underpainting, with Hydro Grip + Glow as the starting point. As a refresher, underpainting is when you apply your sculpting products—such as contour and blush—before your foundation. As we explain in our underpainting tutorial, “by flipping the order of your steps and placing color and warmth below your base, your makeup will have a more subtle, natural-looking effect.” 

Combining the technique with Hydro Grip + Glow is a match made in makeup heaven. “The hydrating formula contains light-reflecting pearls that create a soft radiance and warmth on the skin, instantly,” says Milk Makeup Director of Artistry Sara Wren. Of course, you can always use Grip + Glow on your entire face as a regular primer for that golden finish and all-day hold. But by applying Grip + Glow strategically at the high points of the face, you’ll achieve a subtle, lit-from-within radiance. Prepare to be obsessed. 

Looking to try out this glowy—and super easy—technique? Here are the steps:

Gather your tools. 

For underpainting makeup, you’ll need all the same products you typically use on your face. However, if you need specifics, Sara recommends Matte BronzerFuture Fluid All Over Cream Concealerand Bionic Blush to start.

 

1. Start with Grip + Glow

Sara likes to apply the primer directly on top of damp skincare, as it “acts like the final step of skincare and the first step of makeup application.” Plus, she says, “This gives extra time to blend the luminous golden glow across the whole face while avoiding any patchiness.” For the perfect underglow, “I focus the majority of the application on cheeks and high points of the face—down the nose, under the brow bone and at the tops of cheeks,” she says. 

While this method does give that signature underglow look, she adds that “Focusing on these areas creates a golden glow versus looking too shiny in areas that may have texture or get oily throughout the day.”

2. Then, Conceal 

Use Future Fluid Creamy Hydrating Concealerto cover up any dark circles or blemishes. It’s super buildable, so you can start with a dot or two, then add as needed for the coverage you’re looking for.

3. Follow with foundation

Applying your foundation after those other steps allows it to “marinate and marry everything together for a flawless finish,” says Sara. To avoid inadvertently over-blending your base, try not to drag your foundation brush or sponge across your skin, but rather stamp and buff the formula in. You’ll see it all come together—trust.  

4. Tap on your Blush + Highlighter

It may be tempting to reapply Grip + Glow here, but Sara says the grippy texture may affect the finish of your makeup. Instead, “I would recommend using a traditional cream or liquid highlighter instead,” says the pro. Try our Bionic Blush and Bionic Glow, which both have a weightless, hydrating finish. 

There you have it! Underglow 101, done. Now all you have to decide is how you’ll do your eyes and lips… decisions, decisions.

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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Lindy Segal (she/her) is a freelance beauty writer and editor. She has held editor roles at Glamour and People, and regularly contributes to Harper’s BAZAAR, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney. See more of her work at lindysegal.com.

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Lindy Segal (she/her) is a freelance beauty writer and editor. She has held editor roles at Glamour and People, and regularly contributes to Harper’s BAZAAR, WhoWhatWear, and Fashionista, among other publications. She lives in New York City with her Chihuahua mix, Barney. See more of her work at lindysegal.com.

All information is created for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.