Glow for it: How to achieve the sought-after radiant look
Multipronged approach is key to achieving a radiant look
"Radiance" - it's the latest buzzword in the beauty industry. Visit any skincare counter or open any magazine and you can't help but notice a profusion of new products promising radiant, glowing skin. It seems no matter how old we are, when we look in the mirror, what we really want to see gazing back is a luminous complexion: natural, rosy, blemish-free skin. And the good news is, from creams and balms to serums and foundations, there is a product out there for every age and every skin type.
"Radiant skin looks glowing, healthy with an even tone," explains Brigitte Weber, beauty director at The Strand hair and beauty salon. "Everybody would like to have a clear complexion with a healthy glow, without having to wear any make-up. This has been considered the pinnacle of beauty for hundreds of years."
It certainly sounds wonderful, but how exactly do you go about getting that elusive flawless flush, and which new products should we be using? Weber suggests a multipronged approach. "First, use products with exfoliating ingredients that remove dull and dry skin. Also use products that stimulate cellular circulation and give the skin a healthy glow," she says. "Skincare that contains light-reflecting pigments will give a shimmer effect to the face, and always look for products that tackle uneven pigmentation. And let's not forget dietary supplements which nourish the cell walls and plump out the skin."
According to Samantha Chow, senior marketing and public relations manager for Swiss beauty giant Bellefontaine, the key to achieving radiant skin is patience. "Radiant skin is achievable at any age, but being patient is the key to success. Dull, lifeless skin doesn't happen overnight," she says. "The good news is after at least a month on a steady, glow-inducing regimen, using products like our Radiant Energizing Serum, which contains vitamins C, E and B5, you can expect to have substantially smoother, more radiant skin."
"Radiance is linked to youthfulness," explains Noella Gabriel, director of product and treatment development at Elemis. "Our Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm is a day cream, primer and make-up base all in one. It moisturises and brightens, targeting the upper and lower levels of the skin to give an immediate effect." Packed with natural ingredients including purple orchid, acai berry and fruit acids, the balm promises to tighten and brighten the skin while evening out tone and targeting early signs of ageing.