Glow up

Expert tips for boosting your skin's natural radiance

A glowing complexion is the holy grail that we're all seeking, but sometimes our skin just looks lacklustre, blemished or tired. The good news is that achieving a natural glow is simpler than you think.

Establish a good cleansing routine

Following a good cleansing routine is crucial for helping your skin to glow.

Kim van Haaster, founder and CEO of clean beauty brand Bloomeffects (bloomeffects.com) recommends cleansing with just water in the morning. She explains: "In the morning, when you haven't been exposed to external factors, a gentle water cleanse is sufficient. Over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness." At night, however, Kim recommends a double cleanse. She says: "To effectively remove make-up, sunscreen and daily impurities, a two-step cleansing process is necessary. The first step melts away make-up, and the second thoroughly cleanses the skin, maintaining a healthy barrier function and balanced microbiome."

Maintain a healthy diet

Try to eat a diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and healthy fats. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and nuts can help to fight free radicals and promote skin health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Hydration helps to maintain skin elasticity and flush out toxins.

Choose an appropriate moisturiser

"Appropriate moisturisation provides a smooth, hydrated surface for even application and a long-lasting dewy finish," says Margaret Weeds, MD and founder of Organic Beauty brand Odylique (odylique.co.uk). "Naturally fragrant flower waters make superb hydrators and toners, re-establishing the skin's acid mantle and doubling as a moisturiser for oily skin. They can also be lightly spritzed over skin and make-up during the day for added hydration. For dry and sensitive skin, a good moisturiser is an essential base for make-up to give a smooth, flawless finish. Apply just enough that will be fully absorbed within a few minutes and leave skin comfortable but non-greasy and follow with a light application of foundation for an all-day dewy finish."

Manage stress

Chronic stress can negatively impact your skin by triggering inflammation and exacerbating certain skin conditions. Practise stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night. During sleep, your body repairs and rejuvenates the skin, leading to a healthier complexion.

Avoid overwhelming your skin

"Introduce one product at a time," says Kim van Haaster. "Adding too many new products or actives at once can overwhelm the skin. Introducing products gradually allows you to assess their efficacy and prevents compromising the skin barrier with an excess of active ingredients." Kim also recommends applying your skin products from thinnest to thickest. She explains: "Water-based serums should be applied first, allowing them to penetrate the skin effectively. Oils and occlusive ingredients should then be applied last to seal in moisture and create a protective barrier."

Protect your skin from the sun

Apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection every day, even on cloudy days. UV rays can damage your skin and lead to premature ageing.

Incorporate these tips into your daily routine, and over time, you should notice improvements in your skin's appearance and overall health.

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