Nearly two decades after engulfing our pre-tween years, Twilight remains till present, a cultural icon. From inspiring autumn-worthy vampy lips, to glistening eyes, and now–the newest addition to the cauldron: Vampire Skin.
London-based model August Sombatkamrai, took to TikTok to introduce their fortuitous experiment. Luminous skin that shimmers in the light, accentuating the illusion of a healthy supple face—all factors worthy of its name, ‘Vampire Skin’. While TikTok beauty trends get served fresh on the daily, it’s not everyday we discover a look like this that can work effortlessly on all skin types.
@imonaugust If you guys want to go as a Cullen for Halloween, just add orange contact lenses 🧛♀️✨ #glitter #makeup #twilight #tutorial
♬ Supermassive Black Hole (Twilight Soundtrack Version) – Muse
The inspiration behind vampire skin
In Sombatkamrai’s world, mistakes are celebrated as a nod to make-up’s endless possibilities. The inspiration behind their ‘vampire skin’ look catalysed by turning a blunder into something much more.
“I had this beautiful liquid glitter that I would apply to my eyes to create these intricate rune-like shapes. One time I really messed it up and had to wipe it off. I didn’t do a very good job and it left the most beautiful sparkle effect on my skin and I just knew I had to replicate it in a purposeful manner. At first I thought it reminded me of ethereal fairy skin, but later that day my friends and I were rewatching Twilight and everything just clicked!” explains the TikTok creator.
@meicrosoft I followed this vampire skin tutorial from @imonaugust ! Please go check them out, they are absolutely ethereal! #vampiremakeup #glittermakeup #beauty
You’ll be happy to know that the make-up products needed for this look may already exist in your rotation. Just a simple ratio remix is all you need to do to get your canvas sparkling. However, there are a few golden rules to abide by in the creation of the vampire skin.
“Avoid glitters that have a coloured pigment base mixed in—a lot of glitter shadows have a base colour formulated with them that is light and metallic which will make you look like the tin man. You want one that contains mostly glitter particles on its own, and don’t be afraid to layer. If you have darker skin, try a glitter that is more golden/orange,” shares Sombatkamrai.
@itsurgrlaisha_ Replying to @Sona_X_O I DID IT!! i redid the #vampireskin trend by @imonaugust using gold/bronze glitter on my darkskin and honestly.. you guys were onto something — LOVE IT. 🙌🏾😍 wait for the results 👀👀 my original vampire skin video is here>> @Aisha Asunramu✨ #makeup #makeuptutorial #blackgirlmagic #blackgirltiktok #makeuplook #ukblackgirlmakeup #StemDrop001
For an everyday make-up look, consider dialling back on the glitter. Less is more when going for an elegant your-skin-but-better finish. A subtle shimmery skin is all the difference it takes to make your version of the Clean Girl aesthetic shine through.
What about a glam look for a snazzier day? “Emphasise the high points of your face by adding extra pressed glitter on the points where you’d normally highlight” recommends Sombatkamrai, who intertwines a fine art background with their make-up techniques.
Ride the wave and let your inner glow shine through with this elevated make-up base. Below, Vogue Singapore breaks down the must-haves for this look, according to your unique skin type.
For dry skin
For oily skin
