A major sign of really healthy skin is “the glow”. But things like poor sleep hygiene, stress from work and school, age, and even what you put in your body can be a barrier between you and the glow that you want. So here are my tips for achieving glowy skin:

Internal

Drink water

Water keeps your skin soft and glowy, not to mention it's one of the best anti-aging treatments. That’s it. That’s point #1.

Eat antioxidant rich foods

Blueberries, sweet potatoes, turmeric, avocados, dark leafy greens, dark chocolate, pecans, strawberries, beans, beets, and artichokes are full of antioxidants.

But why antioxidant-rich foods?

Because they counteract free radicals. They can be helpful as they are known to neutralize viruses and bacteria. But having too much of it affects our DNA, lipids, and proteins, which can cause disease. Environmental factors like radiation from the sun, are also known to trigger the formation of free radicals and several studies have shown that including antioxidants in your skincare regimen can help your skin overcome as they help to prevent sunburn, repair the skin, and brighten the skin tone.

External

Solid skincare regimen

One of the easiest ways to encourage the glow externally is to take care of your skin. At the very least, you should cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin morning and night and your morning routine should also include SPF.

Vitamin C

One of Vitamin C’s biggest uses is for reducing scars, spots and other hyperpigmentation. It’s a brightening agent (not to be confused with a bleaching agent) as it interferes with abnormal pigmentation through tyrosinase inhibition of the melanin pigment pathway (source). So you can use it to fade dark spots and to improve the brightness of your skin. Vitamin E and niacinamide are also helpful.

Use Chemical Exfoliants

Using chemical exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs can help you achieve the glowy look because they slough away the dead skin cells, revealing the fresh glowy skin underneath.

According the Paula’s Choice, alpha hydroxy acids are a group of ingredients that include glycolic, lactic, malic, tartaric, mandelic, and citric acids. All of them can be effective for exfoliating skin, but among them, glycolic and lactic acids are considered the most effective; citric acid is generally not included in the amounts needed to exfoliate because it’s too acidic (think lemon juice). When properly formulated—meaning within the correct pH range for the acids to be effective—AHAs releases dull skin to the surface which unveils youthful smoothness, even tone, and glow. All skin types can benefit from AHAs, but they’re best for normal to dry skin showing visible signs of sun damage.

There’s only one beta hydroxy acid, and that’s salicylic acid. When properly formulated—meaning within the correct pH range for exfoliation—BHA exfoliates the skin’s surface and hydrates. But because BHA is oil-soluble (AHAs are not), it penetrates into the pore lining, where it works to dissolve clogs that lead to bumps and blemishes on skin’s surface. BHA also has a natural ability to calm skin, so it’s preferred for those struggling with sensitive skin. Its gentleness makes it suitable even for rosacea- or milia-prone skin. All skin types can benefit from BHA, but it’s best for normal to oily or combination skin that has blemishes, bumps, clogged pores, overly sensitive skin, or post-acne marks.

You can also use Retinol, which is a form of Vitamin A that boosts the collagen your body makes and plumps your skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also improves overall skin tone and color and reduces mottled patches. Note: using a retinol-based product may make the top layer of your skin dry and/or flaky, so be ready to give it extra love with the moisture. It also makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so be sure to protect it with sunscreen. 

Use Physical Exfoliants

Physical exfoliants are products that contain a rough material that buffs away the layer of dead skin cells when you rub it against your skin.

Keep in mind that all forms of exfoliation can be rough on the skin. So do your research and use what works best for you.

That’s it for this post! I hope this gets you one step closer to becoming your own wellness expert without the guesswork. If you’re ready to start your wellness journey, get my free list guide 5 Things to Know When Starting Your Wellness Journey to uncomplicate wellness, bypass some common roadblocks, and and begin the journey to becoming your own wellness expert.