Like anything health and wellness, it’s the small daily habits that build lasting results, and the same goes for your skin.
When you combine a strong external skincare routine with intentional internal nourishment, you build a long-term foundation that allows your skin to naturally glow from the inside out. Here is my step-by-step guide to achieving radiant, healthy-looking skin.
Step 1: External Skincare
Moisturizer
Moisturizers offer numerous health benefits, especially when it comes to keeping your skin barrier healthy and strong. Many environmental factors, like cold weather, indoor heating and sun exposure, can strip the moisture from your skin.
Using a quality moisturizer helps prevent water loss, keeping your skin hydrated. I recommend using CeraVe because it is dermatologist-certified and great for all skin types.
Sunscreen
Whenever I tell people I wear sunscreen on my face every day, I often get surprised looks. But the truth is, daily sunscreen is important no matter the circumstances.
Even if you’re indoors or it’s cold, cloudy and raining, UV rays are still present and can affect your skin. Consistent UV exposure gradually dulls your skin and contributes to hyperpigmentation and premature fine lines. By wearing sunscreen every day, you are actively protecting your skin barrier.
Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is one of the most well-researched skincare ingredients for achieving a brighter, more even complexion. Vitamin C prevents melanin production, which can reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
In addition, Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals caused by UV exposure and pollution. For the best results, apply Vitamin C serum in the morning before moisturizing and sunscreen.
Step 2: Hydrate from Within
Drink Enough Water
Your skin is made up of approximately 64% water, so dehydration often shows up in your complexion. Staying hydrated throughout the day supports a healthy glow by flushing out all the toxins in your body.
Not to mention all the other amazing benefits that come from adequate water intake, such as improved digestion and energy levels.
Green Tea
Green tea offers a wide range of health benefits, supporting your skin as well as your digestion and inflammation levels. It’s rich in antioxidants that help reduce redness and support clearer-looking skin.
You can drink it warm or cold, and it can be incorporated into recipes like chia pudding and energy bites. For optimal benefits, aim to consume one to three cups of green tea per day.
Bone Broth
I understand that drinking plain bone broth may not sound appealing. I was skeptical at first as well, but it has been one of the most noticeable additions to my skincare routine. Bone broth contains collagen, amino acids and gelatin, which are all nutrients that support healthy skin.
While some people prefer to drink warm bone broth with lemon, I recommend trying bone broth hot chocolate to make it more enjoyable. It is easy to make, just combine one cup of bone broth, half a cup of milk (it can be any milk of your choice), two tablespoons of cocoa powder and a sweetener of your choice.
Step 3: Eat Your skinCare
Dark chocolate
You often hear that reducing your sugar intake is the key to achieving glowing skin. While dark chocolate typically contains added sugars, it’s also rich in flavonoids, which boost blood flow to the skin and enhance smoothness.
This doesn’t mean you should consume excessive amounts of dark chocolate, but having a small portion each day can support radiant skin.
avocado
Ever wonder how models achieve that naturally dewy glow? Their secret is avocados.
Victoria Beckham is said to eat three to four avocados per day! Avocados are filled with healthy fats and Vitamin E, which are nutrients that prevent dryness and protect your skin barrier.
Avocado is also an easy ingredient to incorporate into your diet. Add them to smoothies, spread them on toast, or make fresh guacamole.
salmon
Salmon, like avocado, is packed with healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fats help reduce inflammation in the skin and support collagen production.
Salmon is versatile and easy to incorporate into your diet. You can change the flavor profile of your salmon by using different sauces or spices. You can also add it to salads and bowls or eat it as sushi. For an extra skincare boost, pair salmon with avocado to combine their benefits.
sweet potato
Sweet potatoes are ranked among the Mayo Clinic’s top 10 most nutritious foods. They are high in beta-carotene, which is used to produce Vitamin A. The nutrients in sweet potato can promote cell turnover and enhance that subtle glow in your skin.
At the end of the day, we don’t need expensive beauty products to achieve glowing skin. The reality is that intentional daily habits will go a long way and help you glow from the inside out.