We all know one. That friend, colleague or relative who looks airbrushed without a skerrick of makeup on. Well, it turns out these people have something in common: how they take care of their skin. Ok sure, good genetics can sometimes mean the difference between clear skin and teenage acne or an oily t-zone. However, inheriting a clear complexion isn’t the only route to keeping your skin healthy, glowing and free from breakouts. By tweaking your skin care routine and making a few positive lifestyle changes, you’ll quickly notice your skin transform.
What are the habits of people with good skin?
Habit one: They wash their face religiously
Nothing, and we repeat, nothing, will get in the way of these people and cleansing their face. Washing your face each morning and twice at night, (all hail the double cleanse) is a sure-fire method for preventing clogged pores and breakouts. By melting away any makeup, dirt or oil that you’ve collected throughout the day, you’ll be on your way to a clearer complexion. We recommend Bioré®’s Daily Detox Cleanser ($5.50, Chemist Warehouse) to gently manage blemish-prone skin.
Habit two: They exercise regularly
Here’s the thing: a sweat sesh will contribute to a clear, glowing complexion. Why? Because getting your heart rate up will trigger your pores to purge themselves of the toxins that can cause pimples. Plus, increasing your blood circulation will feed your skin cells with a boost of oxygen. But the benefits don’t end there. Exercise is a known way to reduce stress. And we all know what a high level of stress can do: trigger breakouts. Motivated yet?
Habit three: They are diligent with their SPF
Next time you see someone with near-perfect skin, take a closer look (without frightening them, of course). Do you notice any fine lines? Perhaps some sun spots or freckles? If the answer is no, hardly or sort of, then it’s no doubt because they’ve been diligent with their SPF application. A non-comedogenic one like the INVISIBLE ZINC Sheer Defence Tinted Moisturiser SPF50 ($30.49, Chemist Warehouse), of course.
Habit four: They eat a balanced diet
A good topical skin care routine is only one part of it. Eating a nutrient-dense and antioxidant-rich diet which includes vegetables, berries, nuts and healthy fats like salmon and avocado will all contribute to making your skin glow.
Habit five: They don’t smoke
Not on weekends, not socially, not ever. Smoking is harmful to your health and the effects show up on your skin. Inhaling tobacco smoke decreases the blood flow in your skin which can cause damage to our connective tissue and cells. This eliminates supple skin and accelerates premature ageing.
FAQs
Which foods will help your skin to glow?
Lean proteins like fish, chicken and eggs will supply the amino acids our body needs to make collagen (the protein responsible for keeping our skin strong and elastic). Oily fish like mackerel, sardines and salmon, walnuts, dark chocolate, berries and green tea all contribute to a healthy, glowing complexion.
What are the best skin care products?
That depends, how long have you got? Everyone’s skin care needs will vary, which is why we always advise against replicating your best friend or sisters routine. One person’s holy grail oil cleanser might be a breakout waiting to happen for someone who is acne-prone. The best place to start? Determine your skin type and concerns.
Main image credit: @carla_ginola
What are your perfect skin secrets? How do you deal with problem skin?
All really good tips and ideas!
I don’t exercise regularly – eek.
I do all of these things!!
Thanks Ruby Cotton for your Excellent Tips on how to get Amazing Skin. Always use Sunscreen 50+ on Face and Body, Face Primer and into double cleansing.
And they also don’t stress which I do!!
Definitely don’t smoke and stay away from unhealthy environments. Wish I had never smoked, gave up 15 years ago but the damage was done and you cannot reverse it. Yes eat healthy, lots of fresh unprocessed foods. Exercise is good, even a walk in the fresh air.
Agree with the steps but also add a good night’s sleep. It’s such an underrated but important beauty aid.
Very good tips. I follow some of those rules ( except the exercise and diet cheating) .
I know all this, but actually doing it, lol
Drink lots of water, get adequate sleep and a good consistent skincare routine!
I follow those ‘rules’ but I’m at my best when I get a good night’s sleep.
Definitely!
I follow all of these but I should exercise more regularly
I’m slack with exercise, too. SPF is vital! I love IZ!
I do all those things! And yet my skin isn’t all that great. Sigh.
These are all the simple things i do everyday.Double cleanse at night time really help me to prevent new breakouts.
I have trouble with allergies and eczema and have seen many dermatologists, who all tell me DO NOT DOUBLE CLEANSE. If your first cleanser doesn’t work, then IT DOES NOT WORK and you are wasting time and money on it.
I just ride the wave of bad skin, i cleanse and face masks to help