How To Get Glowing Skin
Glow on. (Photo: Getty Images)
A radiant complexion tells the world a lot about you, even if you don’t say a word.
“Glowing skin is a sign of youth, good health and beauty,” explains Francesca Fusco, MD, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. This is why many cosmetic companies used words like “radiance” and “illuminating” to sell their products.
WHY YOU NEED TO MAKE THE CHANGE
When your complexion glows, so do you — you get a confidence boost that can inspire you to make healthy changes in your life or try new things.
Another perk? More satisfying selfies. “When your skin glows, you photograph better,” adds Fusco.
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HOW TO DO IT
For an instant glow, use a moisturizer that contains light-reflecting particles. These capture light so that skin has a lit-from-within appearance. Then, dab of tiny bit of facial oil along your T-zone (the area that includes your forehead and bridge of your nose).
For more permanent radiance, get your glow on by exfoliating regularly. “This sloughs off the dead top layer of cells that accumulate and dull skin,” Fusco explains. This is especially important as you age, since cell turnover slows down once you hit your early to mid-30s.
After exfoliating, apply a moisturizer that contains a potent humectant like hyaluronic acid. “This will act like a magnet for moisture, and plump skin,” says Fusco. Since plumped, hydrated skin reflects light, your complexion looks more glowy.
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Every day — even during the winter — make sure to use sunscreen or a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. This will block damaging UV rays that, over time, dull and dry skin and cause mottled pigmentation. At night, slather on a product with retinoids, which help increase cell turnover, allowing skin to appear bright. If breakouts are an issue, be careful not to layer on too many potentially drying acne products, such as those containing salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acids.
Lastly, if you smoke, make a point to kick the habit — it reduces circulation to skin, leaving it dull.
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