Let’s face it — dull skin lowers confidence. But with packed schedules and an abundance of skincare advice out there, it can be a little difficult to know where to start.
The good news? You don’t need to undergo skincare treatments to keep or revive a youthful glow. Here are four secrets you should know:
1.Sunscreen All Day, Every Day
This is perhaps the most poorly kept skincare secret. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause significant damage to your skin’s natural barrier. Prolonged exposure can cause a loss of elasticity, leading to:
- Wrinkles
- Fine lines
- Hyperpigmentation
- Dullness
- Premature ageing
The scary part? Sun damage may only become visible when you’re older. This is why it’s important to take precautions and protect yourself from UV rays.
Apply sunscreen every day. Make sure the sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Rain or sunshine – wear your sunscreen. If you’re already suspected of sun damage, avoid direct exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
2.Using the Right Skincare Ingredients
Every skincare ingredient targets a specific skin concern. And knowing the effects and composition of each of them can make a world of difference.
For instance, if you have acne or oily skin, you should buy products with the following ingredients:
Salicylic acid – a BHA that penetrates pores to exfoliate and clear blockages.
Niacinamide – reduces inflammation, regulates oil production, and repairs a damaged skin barrier.
Azelaic acid – calms inflammation and reduces acne-induced hyperpigmentation.
If you have under-eye wrinkles, puffiness, or dark circles, buy a firming eye cream with the following ingredients:
Retinoids – stimulate collagen production and boost cell turnover.
Peptides – support elastic production.
Caffeine – acts as an antioxidant and reduces puffiness.
Eye creams from reputable brands like Clarins can lighten age-related skin concerns and provide a youthful glow.
3.Staying Hydrated and Eating a Balanced Diet
Water makes up approximately two-thirds of our bodies and helps flush out toxins and free radicals. Dehydration can make your skin appear dull and dry, and even expose it to breakouts. Drink at least 8 cups of water every day to keep your skin plump and hydrated.
Moreover, eat a nutrient-rich and balanced diet. The following foods can give you healthy fats and keep your skin glowing:
- Avacados
- Tuna
- Flaxseed
- Chai seeds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Walnuts
- Sunflower seeds
4.A Consistent Skincare Routine
While there is no universal skincare routine, sticking to one is super important. Common skincare steps include:
Cleansing. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove oil, dirt, and other impurities. Double cleanse if you’ve been wearing makeup.
Serum. Apply a serum to target a specific skin condition. Vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are common ingredients found in serums.
Moisturizer. Apply a hydrating moisturizer. If you have oily skin, opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer.
Sunscreen. Apply a high SPF sunscreen after moisturizing.
Always do a patch test before applying a new skincare product. Follow a skincare routine for at least a couple of weeks before making any changes.
