Getting your radiance on can’t be achieved by sleights of makeup. No sheer highlighters or glittery bronzers can adequately fake that dewy, lit-from-within look that’s the hallmark of clear complexion. While the foundation of a healthy glow depends on key lifestyle choices such as sleep, nutrition, and stress levels, there are some skincare tricks that can help create a luminosity tipping point. The following six tips can transform dull to dewy in a just a few scrubs, swipes and slathers.
How to Get Glowing Skin Naturally
1. Cleanse
The first step to a luminous complexion starts with radical cleanliness. Make sure whatever cleanser you use does a thorough job of removing debris like dirt, oil and pollution particles that can clog pores. Try a gentle, toxin-free product such as Mineral Fusion Purifying Gel Facial Cleanser ($12) that does not expose your skin to harsh chemicals or dry it out with too much lather. Massage a small dollop of face cleanser lightly with fingers in circular motions, repeat morning and night.
2. Exfoliate
This is the crux of any beauty routine worth its salt in sparkle. Exfoliating removes skin’s outer layer of dead cells so its surface is smoother and clearer and can better reflect light. Exfoliants come in two main flavors: physical exfoliants, such as face scrubs, and chemical exfoliants, such as facial peels. Try Acure Radically Rejuvenating Facial Scrub ($11) several times a week, or Derma E Essentials Overnight Peel AHAs ($15) weekly, for a perkier complexion.
3. Tone
Toners removes excess oil and any last vestiges of dirt or makeup. They can also add a splash of luster, especially if they contain skin-brightening ingredients such as vitamin C. Try Andalou Naturals Brightening Clementine + C Illuminating Toner ($11) after you scrub or cleanse.
4. Hydrate
To fend off parched, wintry skin, there’s really only one viable solution: Moisturize, moisturize and then moisturize some more. Whether you choose balm or cream, make sure you apply morning and night. Try Nourish Organic Ultra-Hydrating Face Cream Pomegranate & Argan ($14), packed with ultra-replenishing Moroccan argan oil, to banish dryness.
5. Mask
A weekly mask made from clay—an ingredient that tamps down shine and leaves the complexion visibly smoother—can do wonders for tired skin. Try Simple Truth® Facial Rose Clay Mask Lavender Orange ($9), which features kaolin, much gentler on your skin than other clays. Post mask consider incorporating a simple lymphatic drainage massage (perfect application for that facial roller you’re still not sure what to do with). To stimulate circulation and naturally detox skin, focus on pressure points on the neck, forehead, temples and around the eyes and jawline.
6. Tinted foundation
If you want to expand your repertoire of moisturizers, consider trying out one of the new crop of moisturizing creams that are also foundations. They’re a big improvement on the chalky blemish balms (BB creams) of the past. Pairing restorative skin-care ingredients with tinted pigments and SPF, they do more than just moisturize on the surface. Try Pacifica Ultra CC Cream Radiant Foundation ($18), for an all-in-one, breathable treatment that results in a dewy glow.
