A guide to radiant skin

A consistent, gentle skincare routine is important to help you glow from within

It's official - dewy skin is in. Healthy-looking skin has an irresistible glow and a spark of energy regardless of age. Although a superficial glow can be created with illuminating make-up, we are here to tell you that there is no real shortcut. The secret to a truly luminous, lit-from-within complexion is in the foundation - a multi-layered, consistent and gentle skincare routine. Here are some simple tips to keep your skin glowing always.

Drink water
Double up on your water intake and add some hydrating products to your beauty routine even if you consider yourself to have oily skin. Your skin might just be producing more oil, and more blemishes, because it is dehydrated. Increasing your water intake will brighten, heal and prevent outbreaks.

Moisturise
This is an obvious one; if you want dewy skin, moisturising is absolutely essential. If your skin is dry, it will undoubtedly look dull. If you have dry or normal skin, try a rich face cream or even oils to lock the hydration in. Products rich in ceramides can strengthen the skin's natural barrier and help it hold on to moisture better. If your skin is on the oilier side and is prone to shine, try an oil-free hydrator with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating helps brighten the skin by sloughing the dead cells away and revealing the fresh, healthy layer of skin underneath. Physical exfoliating scrubs are often made with ground nuts or particles with sharp edges which can cause tiny cuts to the delicate skin on the face, leaving it vulnerable to outbreaks causing bacteria. Chemical exfoliators can also be irritating and can compromise the skin's natural moisture barrier. Enzyme exfoliants are often the best option - they  gently dissolve dead skin cell bonds and impurities on the surface of the skin, leaving it soft and smooth without causing harm.

Use products with AHA
Products which include alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) are a great route to radiance and rejuvenation. AHAs, such as glycolic acid, renew the skin's surface by dissolving the bonds between the new and old layer of skin cells. AHAs are humectants which help the skin hold on to hydration. These acids help reduce the appearance of aging and minimise pores.

Get sun protection
This goes without saying - we do live in the desert after all! Pigmentation, dark marks and acne scars are immediately darkened by sun exposure, and the skin's texture will develop a dehydrated, dull appearance. The only way to maintain a healthy glowing complexion is to keep damaging UV rays away from skin cells.

Boost your retinol
Vitamin A or retinol is the gold standard in skin ageing because it encourages skin to speed up its natural turnover (the process by which old skin cells are sloughed away and replaced by fresh new ones). Good overnight facial creams help you wake up to smooth and rejuvenated skin.

Create an illusion
For that maximum glow, use an illuminator or highlighter. They have been a major trend in recent years and are an easy way to increase skin's natural exuberance.

Apply sheet masks
Occasionally indulging in a hydrating sheet mask is a surefire way to temporarily promote the appearance of dewy skin. However, nightly or more frequent use can provide lasting effects as your skin will increasingly remain hydrated and nourished.
wknd@khaleejtimes.com
Ayat Toufeeq is Cofounder, Powder.ae