My mom taught me this trick to fake a healthy glow in just 2 mins with 0 effort. Here's how it works

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining a flawless, radiant complexion can seem like an insurmountable task, especially when time is not on your side. The pressure to look picture-perfect, even on days when your skin feels dull, can be overwhelming. However, achieving a fresh, dewy glow doesn’t necessarily require hours in front of the mirror or a pricey arsenal of beauty products.

My mother, a woman of timeless beauty and simplicity, shared with me a little-known trick that has saved me on countless occasions. This technique, which takes a mere two minutes, is a game-changer for anyone looking to quickly enhance their natural beauty without any fuss. It’s perfect for those hectic mornings or last-minute plans, and the best part? It requires zero effort and delivers that coveted glow instantly.

The secret to this two-minute glow lies in a strategic application of a tinted moisturizer or BB cream mixed with a liquid highlighter. Start by taking a pea-sized amount of your favorite tinted moisturizer and mix it with a drop of liquid highlighter on the back of your hand. The ratio should be about 3 parts moisturizer to 1 part highlighter.

Use your fingers to blend the concoction and gently apply it to your face, focusing on the high points such as cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and your forehead. This quick blend instantly brightens your complexion, giving you a subtle glow that mimics natural radiance.

Full glam looks can be stunning, but they often require a significant amount of time, skill, and numerous products. On the other hand, faking a healthy glow is all about enhancing what you already have, making it a more practical and achievable option for everyday wear.

A dewy finish gives the illusion of well-hydrated, youthful skin, which is universally flattering and suitable for any occasion. By focusing on a natural glow, you also avoid the risk of heavy makeup settling into fine lines or becoming cakey throughout the day.

The key product in this glow-enhancing trick is a liquid highlighter, which many people already have in their makeup collection. If you don’t own one, don’t worry—many multipurpose products can double as a highlighter, such as a shimmery eyeshadow or a light-reflecting primer.

The beauty of using a liquid highlighter is its versatility and blendability. Unlike powder highlighters, which can sometimes appear chalky, a liquid formula seamlessly integrates with your skin, creating a more natural-looking glow.

Before applying your glow concoction, it’s crucial to prep your skin to ensure smooth application and longevity. Start with a quick cleanse to remove any oil or dirt, followed by a hydrating toner to refresh your skin.

Next, apply a lightweight moisturizer or a hydrating serum to plump the skin and create a smooth canvas. This step takes less than 30 seconds but significantly enhances the final result, ensuring your skin looks fresh and hydrated.

Placement is key when it comes to achieving a natural-looking glow. Focus on areas where the sun would naturally hit: the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, the center of your forehead, and your cupid’s bow.

Avoid applying too much product directly on the apples of your cheeks, as this can look artificial. Instead, concentrate on blending upwards and outwards to lift your features and create a sun-kissed effect.

For an instant lift and brightness, my mom taught me the ‘3-Tap’ technique. After applying your tinted moisturizer and highlighter blend, use your ring finger to gently tap three times along the top of your cheekbone and up towards the temple.

Repeat the same tapping motion just under the brow bone to catch the light and make your eyes appear more awake. This simple technique enhances the natural contours of your face and adds an extra touch of radiance around the eyes.

To complete the look, a touch of color on the lips can make a huge difference. Opt for a tinted lip balm or sheer lipstick in a shade that complements your natural lip color. This not only hydrates your lips but also adds a subtle pop of color that ties the whole look together.

For an extra hint of glow, apply a dab of your liquid highlighter on the center of your lips over the balm. This creates a fuller, more luminous appearance without the need for heavy lip products.

On days when you really don’t want to fuss with brushes or sponges, your fingers are your best tools. The warmth of your fingers helps blend the product seamlessly into your skin, achieving a natural finish.

If you prefer using a tool, a damp beauty sponge can also be incredibly effective. It helps sheer out the product for a more subtle glow while ensuring even application.

No two skin tones or types are exactly alike, and small adjustments can make a big difference. For fair skin, opt for a highlighter with a pearl or champagne hue. Medium skin tones look stunning with golden undertones, while deeper skin tones shine with a bronze or copper highlighter.

If you have oily skin, consider using a mattifying primer in your T-zone before applying the glow product to prevent excess shine. For dry skin, ensure you apply a rich moisturizer beforehand to avoid any patchiness.

To ensure your glow lasts throughout the day, set your look with a light, hydrating setting spray. Avoid powders, as they can dull the radiance you’ve just created. A setting spray not only locks the product in place but also refreshes your skin, keeping it looking dewy and fresh.

For added longevity, consider carrying a travel-sized facial mist to rehydrate and refresh your glow as needed, especially in dry or air-conditioned environments.

This glow-enhancing trick is perfect for any time you want to look fresh and radiant without a full face of makeup. It’s ideal for casual outings, workdays, or times when you want to boost your confidence with minimal effort.

However, for formal events or occasions where you want a more polished look, you may want to incorporate additional makeup products to complement this glow, such as eyeliner or mascara. Skip this trick if your skin is experiencing irritation or breakouts, as it’s best to focus on calming and treating the skin in those instances.