The Real Secret to Glowing Skin (and Why I Haven’t Worn Foundation in Years) - By Ashleigh Stewart

The Real Secret to Glowing Skin and Makeup

When we think of glowing skin, we often reach for highlighters, luminous powders, and the latest “dewy” foundations—but the real secret to glowing skin begins long before the makeup goes on.

Yes, I’m a professional makeup artist, and yes, I love wearing makeup. I’m not afraid of a full-glam moment (as I shared in my last blog, my friends even nicknamed me the Daytime Diva!). I get asked about my skin all the time because while I do wear a lot of eye makeup—think liner, lashes, and my signature lip—I rarely wear foundation. In fact, I haven’t worn foundation, BB cream, tinted moisturizer, or anything of that sort in years.

Instead, my complexion routine is minimal: a sweep of strategically placed bronzer, a touch of highlighter, and a few shades of blush to add natural dimension. I’ll sometimes set my under-eyes with a hint of banana powder to brighten and give a youthful lift—but that’s it.

It’s not that I don’t love foundation—I do! I adore the velvety, matte finish for certain looks. But glowing, radiant skin isn’t about velvet or matte. It’s about fresh, dewy skin that looks hydrated, luminous, and alive—and that glow starts with skincare and lifestyle, not layers of makeup.

I always tell my clients: it doesn’t make sense to pile on products to create a look your own skin can give you when it’s healthy and well-cared for. People ask me how I keep my skin looking youthful and radiant—and the truth is, my makeup and my skincare go hand in hand. I’ve made my skin a priority. I invest in my routine, and I’m as committed to it as I am to brushing my teeth.

Here are some of the daily habits that keep my skin glowing and create the perfect canvas for makeup:

• Drink water with lemon every morning – Hydration is non-negotiable for radiant skin.

• Meditate or manage stress daily – Your skin reflects your stress levels more than you think.

• Prioritize sleep – Beauty sleep is real; your skin repairs itself overnight.

• Eat nourishing foods – Whole foods, leafy greens, berries, and healthy fats support that glow.

• Move your body – Exercise gets the blood flowing, which brings life to your skin.

• Smile and find joy – Happiness is the real inner glow.

• Simplify your makeup – Heavy powders can dull your glow; let your skin breathe.

  
  

When your skin is naturally radiant, your makeup doesn’t have to work so hard. Cream bronzers, highlighters, and blushes simply melt into your complexion, enhancing the glow you already have.

If you want to learn how to bring out that effortless, lit-from-within look, join me for my makeup masterclass, The Glow Edit by The A-List Beauty on August 16th. Together, we’ll enhance your natural beauty with the right prep, techniques, and glow-boosting products—so your skin shines from the inside out.

Ready to unlock your glow?

Join me for The Glow Edit and learn how to create radiant, lit-from-within skin step by step.

For a limited time, I’m offering early-bird specials and a 2-for-1 ticket option so you can bring a friend and share the experience. 🎟️ Spots are limited — don’t miss your chance to glow.👉 Reserve your spot now

I hope to see you there!

Ashleigh