According to Dr. Smith, the key is keeping it simple with a consistent routine focused on hydration, exfoliation, and protection from the sun. Follow her short-list of must-haves and you'll be well on your way to your most radiant complexion ever. No expensive facials or fillers required! Get ready to say hello to fresh, dewy skin and goodbye to dullness and uneven tone. The power is now in your hands - and face.
1. Cleanse Gently but Effectively:
A gentle cleanse is the first step to radiant skin. Use a mild facial cleanser and lukewarm water to remove surface oil, dirt and makeup without stripping your skin. Look for cream or oil cleansers with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Avoid harsh cleansers with sulfates that can dry out and irritate skin.
Wash your face for 30 to 60 seconds using gentle, circular motions.
Rinse thoroughly with water and pat dry with a towel.
Limit washing to 1-2 times per day. Over-cleansing can strip your skin and damage the skin barrier.
2. Moisturize Daily With Products Tailored to Your Skin Type:
Your skin needs hydration to stay healthy and glowy. Moisturizing daily is key, but you need to use products suited for your skin type.
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, look for an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer. These are lightweight and absorb quickly without clogging pores. Some good options contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help clear up breakouts while hydrating. You only need a small amount, so start with a dime-sized dollop and build up as needed.
Dry or Sensitive Skin
For dry or sensitive skin, a richer cream or lotion will do the trick. Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides and dimethicone. Avoid fragrances and harsh exfoliants. Thicker creams, especially those containing hydrating oils like jojoba, sweet almond or squalane, help create a protective barrier to lock in moisture. Reapply as needed, especially after washing your hands or face.
Normal or Combination Skin
If you have normal or combination skin with an oily T-zone but drier cheeks, a lightweight lotion should work well. Look for a balanced formula suited for your skin type that hydrates without irritating. Apply more generously to drier areas like your cheeks, and less to oilier spots like your forehead and nose.
3. Apply Broad Spectrum Sunscreen Every Morning:
As a dermatologist, the number one tip I give all my patients is to apply broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every single morning.
UV Radiation Protection
The sun’s UV rays are responsible for up to 90% of skin aging and sun damage. Using sunscreen daily helps shield your skin from harmful UVA and UVB radiation that can cause fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. Look for a sunscreen that is “broad spectrum,” meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. An SPF of at least 30 will block 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. For the most effective protection, apply sunscreen generously before sun exposure and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
You should apply sunscreen every day of the year, even in the winter and on cloudy days. UV radiation penetrates clouds and bounces off surfaces like snow, water, and concrete. Don’t forget to protect often-forgotten areas like your neck, chest, hands, and lips. Using a moisturizer or makeup with SPF does not provide the same level of protection as a dedicated sunscreen product.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet Rich in Antioxidants and Healthy Fats:
To get radiant skin, you need to feed your body the right nutrients. What you eat has a direct impact on your skin health and appearance. Focus on a balanced diet with lots of antioxidants, healthy fats, and hydrating foods.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants help fight free radicals, unstable molecules that damage your skin cells. Some of the best sources include:
Blueberries: Blueberries are antioxidant powerhouses. Throw a handful in your yogurt or oatmeal, or snack on them plain.
Green tea: Drink 2-3 cups of green tea per day. Green tea is loaded with antioxidants that boost skin health and fight signs of aging.
Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A, which is essential for skin cell turnover and smoothness. Roast them, mash them, or make sweet potato fries.
Healthy Fats
Omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats promote skin hydration and reduce inflammation. Focus on:
Fatty fish: Aim for 2-3 portions of salmon, sardines, or trout per week. They contain anti-inflammatory omega-3s that calm irritated skin and reduce redness.
Avocados: Enjoy half an avocado a few times a week. Avocados provide nourishing monounsaturated fats along with vitamin E, which protects skin cells from damage.
Olive oil: Use olive oil for cooking, salad dressings, and dips. It’s loaded with monounsaturated fats that hydrate skin and have antioxidant effects.
Hydrating Foods
Drink plenty of water and eat hydrating fruits and vegetables which provide water and electrolytes to keep your skin plump and glowing. Some top options include:
Cucumbers: Cucumbers are 95% water. Add cucumber slices to your water or snack on them plain.
Watermelon: Watermelon is also made up of mostly water and provides vitamin A, which is important for skin health.
Broths: Chicken, bone and vegetable broths contain electrolytes that restore hydration. Have a mug of broth as a snack or with meals.
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