Have you ever wondered how some people can naturally glow while others seem to age? Of course, some people have more melanin than others–but that’s not the only way to tell. There are ways to improve your skin’s appearance and give it a natural-looking glow no matter your skin tone.
Here are nine steps you can take to help improve your complexion:
1. Exfoliate
Exfoliating is an excellent way to remove dirt and build-up from the deeper layers of the skin and any dead & dry skin cells on top. You don’t want too much exfoliation because you could damage those deep layers, causing them to fill with fluid, resulting in puffiness under the eyes — ick!
When choosing a gentle exfoliant, think about what’s right for you based on your skin type.
- Sensitive skin: Creamy, soft exfoliants will be less irritating to the skin and work just as well.
- Normal skin: You can do a variety-soft to gritty- just remember that if you use a product that’s too rough, it could irritate your normal but sensitive skin.
- Oily Skin: Some oil-based exfoliants are great for oily skin because they dissolve the sebum plugs in your pores.
2. Cleanse Your Skin
It would be best if you cleansed twice daily — once in the morning to remove any dirt, oil, and make-up you might have accumulated during your sleep and before going out into public. Cleanse once more at night to remove excess oils that build up over the day.
Always cleanse after exercising or if your skin becomes sweaty. If you exercise at night, I recommend using a noncomedogenic scrub immediately after the following exercise because it will help with sweat/oil control without clogging pores further.
3. Use A Mask Twice Monthly
Masks are another great way to help improve the look of your skin — mainly if you use them twice monthly! There are tons of beautiful masks available on the market–you just need to find what works for you.
If you’re looking for a gentle mask that will calm, cleanse and hydrate, try a milk-based one. You can go with a mud mask for something a little more intense, but be careful if your skin is sensitive because some of these have Glycolic Acid, which can irritate the skin.
4. Use A Toner
After you cleanse, it’s essential to use a toner before applying any other facial products. It helps remove any traces of dust or dirt from your pores so that creams & serums are more effective and beneficial to the skin.
If you’re wary about using a toner because your skin can be sensitive, stick with an alcohol-free formula that won’t dry the skin or cause irritation like some toners can.
5. Use A Serum
Serums are one of the best ways to help improve your skin and give it a glow.
The first step and most crucial part of using a serum is choosing one that will benefit your skin type.
If you’re oily, look for an oil-free formula that won’t clog pores or cause break-outs; those with dry skin should look for something containing hyaluronic acid and other beneficial ingredients like vitamin C & glycerin, which will help provide moisture.
6. Use An Eye Cream Often
From genetics to lifestyle habits, we all lose collagen at different rates. Hence, it’s essential to treat the area around the eyes because it’s so delicate, sensitive, and prone to wrinkles.
If you’re looking for a way to rehydrate the skin under your eyes, try an eye serum or cream containing ingredients like rosehip oil and caffeine, which help with dark circles.
7. Eat A Healthy Diet & Excercise Often
You knew this was coming! Ok, as much as we’d all love to be healthy just by eating healthy foods alone– that’s not always the case. It requires a good diet and regular exercise to truly reap the benefits of changing what you eat and how often you workout.
8. Book Spa Appointment
If you’re looking for a way to treat yourself or just learn about your skin needs, then it’s time to book that spa appointment!
Get yourself enrolled in a beauty school if you want to learn how to do it yourself, learn more about spa treatments and skincare.
9. Use Sunscreen Daily
No matter how old you are, it’s essential to protect your skin from the sun because it causes premature aging and discoloration if left unprotected.
If you’re looking for a sunscreen that will provide coverage while working with other facial products, try an oil-free gel formula that won’t clog pores.
Remember, after you learn about these nine steps to glowing skin, you can share them with your friends who are also looking for ways to improve their skin’s health. Good luck!
