How to get glowing skin
Glowing skin is something many people strive to have. For some, radiant skin is an outward sign of health, while others wish to achieve this look for cosmetic reasons.
There are many ways to improve the skin’s radiance. People can improve the health of their skin by making diet and lifestyle changes. There are also many skin care and makeup products on the market that can give the appearance of glowing skin.
In this article, we will look more closely at what glowing skin is, the factors that influence it, and how to work towards it.
Glowing skin means different things to people. Many people use the term to refer to skin that looks healthy and “awake” rather than dry, dull, or unevenly textured. For some, healthy skin results in a natural sheen, or “glow.”
Healthy skin is something that most people can work towards. Typically, healthy skin will appear:
- smooth, with few breaks or blemishes
- adequately hydrated, being neither too dry nor too oily
- fairly even in color, rather than red or inflamed
It is important to note that healthy skin does not mean perfect skin. Perfect skin is not attainable. Skin can be healthy and glowing, while also having normal characteristics, such as:
- visible pores
- fine lines and wrinkles
- birth marks
- occasional blemishes
Everyone’s skin is different. Some people may be naturally more able to achieve a glowing appearance than others due to a range of factors.
The factors that influence skin health include:
- Genetics: A person may be more likely to have dry or dull skin due to their genes. Some dry skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis, are
related to genetics. - Hormones: Fluctuations in hormone levels can trigger breakouts of acne and change how oily or dry a person’s skin is. This is true for people of all sexes, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.
- Health conditions and medications: If a person has other coexisting health conditions, or takes medications, this could impact the health of their skin. For example, hormonal birth control can have either a positive or negative influence.
- Environment: Exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, dry air, tobacco smoke, and pollution can all have a negative impact on the skin.
- Behavior: Water intake, diet, sleep, stress, and exercise can influence the skin. The products a person uses on their skin can also either help or hinder skin health.
It is not possible to control all of these factors, but there are many a person can change in order to promote healthy skin. We will look at some of these in the following sections.
Many people start working towards healthy-looking skin with skin care products. This can feel complicated, as there are many companies that claim their products will help someone achieve glowing skin.
However, the Academy of American Dermatology (AAD) states that skin care does not have to be complex or expensive. Many people benefit from a simple routine that consists of cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.
Cleansing
Cleansing products help remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil from the skin. When choosing a cleanser, it is important to look for one that is gentle, pH-balanced, and does not include harsh chemicals or soap.
Cleanse the skin upon waking up, before going to sleep, and after sweating. Use warm water rather than cold or hot, and pat the skin dry with a clean towel.
Moisturizing
Moisturizers add water to the skin. For best results, the AAD recommends applying moisturizer immediately after cleansing in order to to trap moisture in the skin.
People with oily skin may prefer an oil-free moisturizer, while those with dry skin may prefer something heavier that contains oils or butters.
Sun protection
Sunlight contains UV light, which can cause burning, sun damage, and visible signs of aging. Applying an SPF product before going outside is an easy way to reduce the risk. When choosing an SPF product, look for one that is:
- broad spectrum
- SPF 30 or above
- suitable for a person’s skin type
Apply sunscreen to all areas of exposed skin, including around the eyes and neck. When the sun is at its strongest, stay in the shade or wear lightweight clothing and a hat to cover the scalp.
Find tips for choosing a sunscreen here.
Other products
There are additional products that may help with attaining healthy skin, depending on a person’s specific concerns. For example, chemical exfoliants are popular products that dissolve the top layer of skin cells, making way for new cells underneath. People can use these to improve skin texture and appearance.
Apply chemical exfoliants after cleansing but before moisturizing.
Chemical exfoliants are not always suitable for those with darker skin. They can also increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Always wear SPF when using a chemical exfoliant.
Learn more about chemical exfoliants and how to use them.
Shaving
Hair removal can easily cause irritation, ingrowing hairs, or a shaving rash. To avoid this:
- wet the skin and hair
- use a shaving balm or cream to lubricate the skin
- shave in the direction the hair grows with a clean, sharp razor
- rinse the razor after each pass
- allow the razor to dry completely after use