You’ve it seen it from 10 feet away: the kind of dewy skin that glistens as it hits the light in an ethereal way as if it were kirakira in real life. This kind of magical glow a la J.Lo is all sparkle, no sweat. You don’t need to be a mythical creature or keep hold of summer’s bronze skin to achieve it: Radiance is as much about maintaining healthy skin as it is using the right products. Consider this your essential guide to skin that’s lit from within, so you can glisten all the way through New Years.
EXFOLIATE ON THE REGULAR It’s very important for skin radiance. “Dead skin build-up leads to a dull, lifeless complexion, so you need to alleviate the dead cells that build up on the surface of the skin,” says Rhea Souhleris Grous founder of La Suite Skincare at Union Square Laser Dermatology in New York City.Try an exfoliating pad, such as M-61 PowerGlow Peel, which helps shed dead cells and resurface the skin in one minute. It’s formulated with glycolic and salicylic acids, which help reduce pore size and the appearance of fine lines and improve the skin’s tone, texture and clarity. It also has Vitamin K and antioxidants to promote an even skin tone.
C THE DIFFERENCE A Vitamin C serum, such as Skinceuticals Vitamin C+E Ferulic, brightens and illuminates the skin and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Souhleris Grous says. The potent formula also provides advanced environmental protection by neutralizing damaging free radicals. After cleansing, use 4 to 5 drops of this daytime serum on your face, neck and chest before applying moisturizer.
REAP THE REWARDS OF RETINOLS They help regenerate healthy cells and brighten skin, Souhleris Grous says. Try Clark’s Botanical’s Retinol Rescue Face Serum, which is concentrated, yet gentle enough to use in the am under sunscreen or pm under a night cream. The formula also includes red algae extract, which minimizes the appearance of redness and Vitamin E, which helps protect against free radicals. Bonus: it’s vegan and free of any harmful chemicals.
BOOST YOUR BOD If your face is radiating a gorgeous glow, obviously, you want your body to match. The best way to prep your skin is with a body scrub like Goop G.Tox 5 Salt Detox Body Scrub, which combines an indulgent mixture of salts and oils. Massage it in circular motions on wet skin two-to-three times a week to slough away dead skin cells and smooth your way to improved texture.
GLOW FROM HEAD TO TOE Using the right oil, your skin will feel smoother, softer and more resilient—and not to mention with glowy, Souhleris Grous says. Try Cuvée Hair & Body Glow. The fast-drying lightweight oil helps hydrate skin, tame frizz and leave both hair and body soft, shimmering and infused with champagne, white truffle and platinum extracts plus skincare-grade ingredients. Massage a few pumps into your skin and run it through your hair to control flyaways and add shine.
HIT THE HIGH PLANE As the ultimate glistening touch, use a highlighting powder along the tops of your cheekbones and browbone. Try Jouer Powder Highlighter in Rose Gold. The creamy powder formula is highly pigmented and will flatter just about any skin tone. Ultra-fine pearls and pigments lend a natural radiance.