When you see someone who’s skin is “glowing”, “luminous”, “dewy”, or “clear as glass” – we’re talking the radiance factor. We all want it. It’s the kind of complexion that says “young, healthy skin” – the kind of skin you’d get if you were never stressed, got 8 hours of sleep a night and ate a religiously clean diet.
So how do we get it? And how did we lose it? A variety of factors including chronological aging, poor short term lifestyle choices (smoking or vaping, alcohol, processed/fast foods, tanning) environmental stressors and just plain stress can render your skin looking dull, dehydrated, and tired, causing you to lose your glow.
Lifestyle and damaging environmental factors have a major impact on the skin. In fact, it’s safe to say that you can often tell someone’s interior condition by the way their skin looks. There’s a connection between stress, pollution, poor diet, sun exposure and the increase in photo-aging and breakouts.
The simple “rules” below can show you the what, why and how to rock the radiance factor. Education is the key, so whether you are an esthetics professional, student or spa client, observe which factors play a crucial role in achieving radiant skin and follow the glow!
RULE #1: Radiant skin has a strong barrier.
The skin's barrier function is a protective film that covers its entire surface, and consists primarily of water, sweat and sebum. The barrier works to protect the skin and keep bacteria and skin irritants out. Many things can cause damage to the skin barrier including environmental stressors, sun exposure, poor diet, alcohol or certain medications, lack of sleep, stress, over exfoliation, and genetics or hereditary factors. When the barrier is damaged, skin loses radiance.
A stressed barrier function shows signs that include dullness, redness, irritation, dryness, flakiness, and broken capillaries. The benefits from your skincare products will be fleeting, and the skin becomes weaker and can’t protect itself properly. This results in accelerating the aging process. The solution is to work to strengthen the barrier – from the inside out.
RULE #2: Radiant skin requires a personalized skincare regimen.
If you haven’t already – download our ebook – Skin Sense – at the signup form footer at the bottom of all pages on our website. It’s critical you choose the right product formulations for your skin type and condition. (Our students and instructors can help you identify your concerns – call or email our spa desk. In person facials are scheduled to reopen this summer!).
Once you’re confident on your skin type/condition, you need to arm yourself with the basics - cleanser, toner and moisturizer customized to what you need right now. And don’t forget the sunscreen! NOTHING is more damaging for the skin than the sun. At the end of the day, even the best products and treatments are worthless if you’re not protecting your skin from UV damage.
Once you’ve got the basics, consider adding a serum and eye cream for your skin type - targeting special symptoms like irritation or dehydration to further personalize your skincare. (Again – check out our ebook for more info).
RULE #3: Radiant skin is exfoliated.
Exfoliation is a necessity for all skin types, even sensitive! Dull or sluggish skin needs to have dead surface skin cells and skin debris removed to aid circulation and cell turnover. Exfoliation and active masks (like our Moor Algae Mask) are a great way to reveal healthy, glowing skin. Exfoliate one to three times a week with a mild product (Enzyme Peeling Crème, Pineapple Enzyme Peel) to remove dead skin cells and showcase a clearer smoother complexion.
RULE #4: Radiant skin is hydrated.
Dehydrated skin can look dull, flaky, tight and often irritated – the total opposite of radiant. It also can result in premature aging lines and thinner texture. All skin types can be dehydrated, depending on existing factors at any given time. It’s important to infuse the skin with moisture in a variety of ways – with serums, moisturizers, facial mists or toners, or hydrating mask treatments.
You deserve to look as radiant outside as you are on the inside!