Illustrated by Sydney Hass. Great looking skin that’s gratis! Now that’s something you don’t hear often, especially when it comes to achieving healthy, flawless skin. But, here I am, offering just that — expert advice in the form of five tips to beautiful skin that won’t cost you a dime.
Massage your skin: Gently massage your face using your knuckles. Do this for two minutes after cleansing and moisturizing to create a more active blood flow. Proper blood circulation is important in skin maintenance, and it is most evident in the face — when blood does not circulate as needed, the skin becomes dull and sallow. A two-minute massage will help nutrients to resurface leaving your skin with a revitalized glow. I start my nighttime skin routine this way and it really makes the skin glow. Just be sure your hands are clean and that you don't tug, but rather roll.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
Illustrated by Sydney Hass. Sleep with your head elevated: When we sleep and remain in a mostly stationary position for the night, fluids in the face build up and sit in small pockets. We usually see this accumulation underneath the eyes in the morning when the dreaded puffy bags surface, as if to tell everyone you stayed out a little too late last night. To avoid this unflattering look, prop an extra pillow under your head at night to allow fluids to drain properly. This should leave you looking refreshed and puff-free.
Illustrated by Sydney Hass. Wear a tight ponytail: By pulling your hair back in a tight ponytail, it doesn’t just feel like a facelift, it is actually providing a mini-lift to your face. The pull — which shouldn't be so extreme that it's at all painful — will instantly tighten the skin without the use of any products or surgery. All you’ll need is a hair tie! (Those with fine hair may want to avoid pulling too tight to avoid possible breakage.) I have a celebrity client in her 60s who uses tape behind her neck to provide a similar effect, if you're so inclined. It works!
Illustrated by Sydney Hass. Smile: Smiling raises your cheek bones, lifts the skin, plumps the cheeks, stimulates blood circulation and instantly gives an appearance of a glow. Plus, studies show that smiling can instantly improve your mood. It sounds too good to be true but the simple act of smiling can go a long way.
AdvertisementADVERTISEMENT
Illustrated by Sydney Hass. Get your beauty sleep: Sure, we've all heard this one before, but there's no easier way to get your skin in prime shape than getting enough sleep — and consistently. Lack of sleep causes the skin to look pale and tired thanks to impaired circulation has been impaired. It is also important to get a good night of sleep because sleep deprivation causes stress, which can heighten all skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Bottom line: When you're tired, you look it. Sweet dreams, R29 readers!
Who says beautiful skin has to cost tons of money? With my five helpful hints, you're bound to find immediate results!