Last Updated on January 12, 2025 by Angela Vaz
Have you ever caught a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and wished for that radiant, glowing skin like all the pictures you see on Instagram/Pinterest?
I’m not talking about makeup here, but that healthy glow that shines from within.
I know what it’s like to not be born with perfect skin.
I have oily/combination skin that is severely acne prone and I’ve spent a huge portion of my life trying to heal it.
You can read this post on how I took up a challenge to clear my skin in 10 weeks.
I’ve even covered the foods I religiously ate to get clear skin.
I will link to more similar helpful posts below this!
While I was on this journey, I discovered that there are simple lifestyle habits that we can actually practice to get beautiful, glowing skin.
This post isn’t just about skincare tips; it’s about reconnecting with yourself and treating your skin like the masterpiece it is.
So, if you’re ready to start this journey toward glowing skin, here are 11 powerful, natural ways to bring out your inner radiance.
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1. Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
Avoid drinking water after 8 pm because it puts a load on your kidneys.
But from the moment you wake up, try to have multiple glasses of water a day.
Water is life—not just for your body but for your skin too.
Hydration flushes toxins plumps your skin, and keeps it elastic.
The difference is astounding.
Start your day with a glass of warm water and lemon to detoxify and boost your metabolism.
Carry a reusable water bottle like this to remind yourself to sip throughout the day.
For an added glow, try herbal teas like green tea or chamomile, which are loaded with skin-loving antioxidants.
2. Eat a Rainbow of Nutrient-Rich Foods
Your skin reflects what you eat.
A diet rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats can do wonders.
Include foods like:
- Berries for antioxidants that combat free radicals. I’m currently loving blueberries.
- Avocados for their skin-plumping healthy fats.
- Spinach and Kale for vitamins A and C, which promote repair and brightness.
For convenience, consider adding a collagen powder supplement like this to your smoothies to support skin elasticity and hydration.
3. Develop a Consistent Sleep Routine
My friend who is a nutritionist told me to do this after I started having gut issues.
She told me that sleep is so important for our brain, our stomachs, and our overall muscle regeneration.
They don’t call it beauty sleep for nothing!
While you sleep, your skin repairs itself. So do other parts of your body – but this post is about skin.
Aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest and try using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent wrinkles.
To relax before bed, a lavender-scented pillow spray can work wonders for calming your mind and body.
4. Build a Gentle, Natural Skincare Routine
- Cleanse: Use a mild cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin’s natural oils. I am currently using Cetaphil. It’s one of the best cleansers I’ve used – it doesn’t aggravate any skin conditions and actually helps you clean your skin thoroughly.
- Moisturize: This is one of the best moisturizers I’ve used – and it’s so perfect, it will actually give you glass skin!
- Protect: Never skip sunscreen! It not only dries out your skin but it also ages it very quickly! Even though I work from home, I always put on sunscreen. I’ve been a fan of La Roche Posay and I don’t think I’ve found a better one.
5. Incorporate DIY Face Masks
Nature has the best remedies.
Try these simple DIY masks:
- Turmeric and Honey Mask: Mix turmeric powder with raw honey to brighten and calm inflammation.
- Aloe Vera and Cucumber Mask: Hydrate and refresh your skin with this soothing combination.
If DIY isn’t your thing, check out this ready-made organic face mask kit
6. Exercise to Boost Circulation
Moving your body increases blood flow, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to your skin, giving it that post-workout glow.
Whether it’s yoga, running, or dancing in your living room, aim for 30 minutes of movement daily.
I started with 10 minutes – slowly pushed to 12, 15, then 20, and now I’m able to do 30 minutes a day.
Sometimes, I just do 10 because I’m short on time. Build the habit so that even if you’re super busy – you’ll still do 10 minutes.
Don’t forget to wash your face with a gentle post-workout cleanser to remove sweat and dirt.
7. Manage Stress Mindfully
Stress wreaks havoc on your skin.
Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation, journaling, or deep breathing to stay calm.
For an extra touch, light a soothing aromatherapy diffuser with calming essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus to create a serene atmosphere.
8. Limit Sugar and Processed Foods
I get that this is a very hard step.
But a lot of people who have quit sugar or even reduced it can tell the difference between 2 weeks.
Excess sugar leads to glycation, which damages collagen and results in dull, aging skin.
Swap sugary snacks for fruits or nuts and use natural sweeteners like honey.
Again, do it slowly.
You don’t have to go cold turkey.
But let’s say you have a chocolate bar every day after lunch – reduce it to a small bar of that chocolate.
When you’re ready, swap the chocolate bar for a healthier option.
The goal is to reduce.
9. Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Check the labels on your skincare products and avoid sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances.
I recently found out that waterproof mascara is so dangerous because it contains benzene. Even dry shampoo isn’t safe.
Switch to natural, clean beauty brands.
And as much as possible, be a minimalist when it comes to putting products on your body.
10. Protect Your Skin While You Sleep
At night, your skin undergoes repair, so help it along with these tips:
- Apply a retinol serum to encourage cell turnover.
- Use a humidifier to keep the air—and your skin—hydrated.
11. Don’t Forget Your Mental Glow
True radiance comes from feeling good inside.
Practice gratitude, connect with loved ones, and spend time doing what you love.
Happiness and confidence shine through, giving your skin a glow no product can match.
By incorporating these 11 steps into your routine, you’ll not only see a visible improvement in your skin but also feel healthier and more energized overall.
Remember, glowing skin is a journey, not a race—so enjoy the process, and let your natural beauty shine through.
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