How to Get a Nice Complexion

There are a few tricks to getting a nice complexion.

A flawless, glowing complexion creates the perfect canvas for makeup or allows you to go au natural with confidence. While age is a factor in less-than-perfect skin, there are a few products to use that can lessen signs of aging, improve texture and prevent other common skin problems.

Things You'll Need

• Cleanser
• Toner
• Moisturizer
• Sunscreen
• Eye cream

Instructions

1. Eat a well-balanced diet. Fill your plate with vegetables, fruits, nuts and whole grains. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that help improve the look of your skin and repair your skin cells. Skin-boosting foods like almonds or avocados have vitamins that are essential for healthy skin. Avoid fried and sugary foods as they can cause breakouts and worsen acne. Increase your water intake -- this helps your body flush out toxins, which can show up on your face in the form of dull skin.

2. Get enough sleep to reduce under-eye circles and puffiness, which give you a tired, dull appearance. If you're sleep-deprived and want to fake a restful night, put cucumber slices on each eye for about five minutes. This reduces puffiness and minimizes dark circles.

3. Treat yourself to an at-home "spa day." Exfoliate your face and neck once or twice a week to loosen dead skin. Follow up with a DIY beauty mask to address special skin concerns. Whether you want to brighten or tighten your skin, draw out excess oil or moisturize dry areas, a face mask can make your skin look luminous.

4. Apply SPF-containing creams when exposing your skin to sunlight. Sun damage causes premature aging and leaves skin looking old and leathery. Most moisturizers and foundations contain sufficient SPF to protect your skin for everyday use. Avoid tanning beds and excessive sunbathing -- both are linked to skin cancer.

5. Purchase products that address special skin concerns. For example, if you have oily skin, buy oil-free products and avoid harsh astringents. Look for intensive-moisture products if your skin is dry and flaked. Revitalize dull skin with an exfoliating daily cleanser. Addressing specific skincare concerns will give your complexion an overall boost within days.

6. Apply anti-aging products. It's never too early to start an anti-aging campaign for your skin. The delicate skin around the eye area usually shows the first signs of aging, so invest in a moisturizing under-eye cream. Continued use of eye cream helps brighten the usually dark area, minimize dark circles and fill in fine lines.

7. Practice consistency and develop a routine you can stick with. If you prefer the low-maintenance route, use a few tried-and-true products to get you out the door fast. If you spend a little more time getting ready in the morning, you may want to add a few more products like an eye cream or serum.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use a delicate touch when applying any products around the eye area because tugging can lead to saggy skin.

• Test a small area of your arm when trying new skincare products. Wait several hours to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction before using the product on your facial skin.

References

• American Academy of Dermatology; Skin-Health Tips