How to Get Porcelain Skin (Naturally)

If you’ve been on social media this week — you probably came across Pat McGrath’s ‘porcelain skin’ makeup look. The New York makeup artist debuted her glass skin, alien-inspired vision at the buzzy Maison Margiela show from Haute Couture Week in Paris. 

McGrath’s ethereal look was characterized by flawless and hyper-shiny makeup that made skin appear poreless and flawless. While we all know this was achieved with cosmetic mastery, special-effects makeup, and pure creative genius, it’s no surprise that many of us are left wondering how we can get porcelain skin naturally (and without makeup!). Afterall, glowy and radiant skin is the ultimate sign of a healthy complexion.

What is Porcelain Skin? 

Porcelain skin is a reference to the finished product of heating and cooling ceramic clay. Its translucent and glassy appearance makes it the ultimate skin goal as it refers to smooth, hydrated, blemish-free, and even toned-skin (not to be mistaken with fair skin). 

How to Get Porcelain Skin Naturally

Whether it’s porcelain skin, glass skin, dewy skin, or glazed donut skin — there really is no such thing as flawless, perfect skin. But there is healthy skin and healthy skin is soft, balanced, and lustrous.

While there's nothing wrong with wanting porcelain skin, a more realistic and long-term goal for us centers around having healthy skin that continues to glow and protect you. Here are our tips for healthy skin: 

• SPF protection: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to reduce the impact of harmful UVA and UVB rays that can cause hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and sun spots. 
• Remove makeup and use a gentle face cleanser: A clean canvas is key to preventing future breakouts. Always remove your makeup at the end of the day to prevent clogging pores and follow up with a gentle cleanser that's pH-balanced to maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier so your skin is never stripped of its natural glow. 
• Glow serum: Slotting in a hydrating serum that’s packed with antioxidants will help bring out the lit-from-within warmth of your skin. Psst: Read here for more information on what a glow serum does and what ingredients to look for. 

Now that you have the tips, making sure that you're consistent with your routine is key. With consistency and patience, healthier skin can be achieved within weeks and be sustained for the long run, so that porcelain skin doesn't have to be a look just for Fashion Week.