Get Glowing Skin - Beauty and Makeup Tips

Get Glowing Skin for the Summer

Start Fresh

Your skin would benefit from year-round exfoliation to remove old, dry cells, says New York City dermatologist Arielle Kauvar, MD. But it’s a must during sundress season if you want your skin to glow. Exfoliating comes in handy for preventing ingrown hairs and treating body breakouts. It’s also an essential first step before applying self-tanner. And did we mention the anti-aging benefits? “By removing dead cells you help fade sunspots and freckles and also stimulate your skin to produce more collagen, which makes it firmer,” says Dr. Kauvar.

Exfoliation Rules

Easy does it. Use just once or twice a week. A bead or sugar scrub works well for most skin types, especially sensitive or dry.
Clear up “backne.” Try a clarifying body wash with glycolic or salicylic acid or, if you can tolerate something more invigorating, Hollywood spa owner Ole Henriksen recommends a salt scrub, which has natural antibacterial properties.
Tackle rough spots. Elbows, knees, and heels may need extra attention. Use an exfoliating cream with salicylic acid or lactic acid to soften dead skin, says New York City dermatologist Sapna Westley, MD. Try Amlactin Foot Cream Therapy, $10.

Moisture Matters

You can take a break from heavy-duty winter creams, but don’t stop moisturizing just because it’s humid outdoors. Salt water, sun, and chlorine can all be very drying, especially if you’re over 40. (Dryness can also be an issue if you live in a low-humidity climate or at a high altitude.) A nice summer bonus? Moisturizing daily will make skin look healthier, too. “Hydrated skin has a smoother texture and reflects light more evenly, which helps disguise imperfections such as cellulite,” says Cheryl Karcher, MD, a New York City-based dermatologist.

Hydrating Habits

Get your daily dose. Choose a lightweight formula with antioxidants as your go-to summer moisturizer. “Antioxidants protect against sun damage and improve texture and tone,” says Dr. Westley. For best results use a hydrating body wash in the shower, then apply your lotion while skin is slightly damp.
Feel good about your neck. Give your neck the same VIP treatment you give your face. “The skin here is thin and has few oil glands so it’s one of the first areas to sag and show sun damage,” says Dr. Kauvar. Even better: Apply your anti-aging moisturizer and sunscreen down to your decolletage.
Glow like the stars. Henriksen tells his celebrity clients, like Charlize Theron, to apply a light body oil on legs and arms before walking down the red carpet. “It gives skin a luminous sheen.