Skin-Saving Tips That Can Change Your Complexion

Achieving perfect skin is—as a beauty editor—one of my goals in life. And with all the knowledge, products, and time that a girl could need, it’s not only a wish—it’s my responsibility to ensure that my complexion stays blemish-free, luminous, and hydrated. But perfection is unattainable, even with all the help in the world. What I do have is the best skin I can hope for, with a little help. Skin that I’m proud to show off with just a tinted moisturizer. Skin that tells a story of care, maintenance, and skin that loves to share my product knowledge and expert tips. I’m always asked how I keep my face looking so clear (lots of work!) and which tips I’ve picked up over the years. From dermatologists to nutritionists and facialists to makeup artists, everyone has their two cents when it comes to complexion perfection. Here, I’ve put together a best-of list, advice that has changed my skin from troubled teenager (think acne and red splotches) and sun damaged (I’m from sunny Australia—don’t judge!) to clear, happy-to-be-glowing beauty editor. They’re not rocket science, but these tips work, and I can’t wait to share.

Cleanse, cleanse, cleanse.

One thing every single facialist and dermatologist has recommended to me: Cleanse. Keeping your skin clean is the most important step to banishing acne and blemishes. “In warmer months or if you have oily skin, it’s best to double cleanse—and remove your makeup separately!” says Kimberly Soane, director of global artistry at Bobbi Brown. “This will ensure all of your makeup is off, so it doesn’t sit in your pores and cause blemishes.”

Remove your makeup!

No matter how late it is or how tired you feel, always remove your makeup. And I mean ALWAYS. If there’s one tip I could go back and tell my 16 year-old self, it would be to wash my face morning and night. If you’re too tired in the evening, at least use a makeup removing wipe. You won’t regret it in the morning.

Wear sunscreen.

The second tip I would give my teenage self? Wear sunscreen! Growing up in Australia meant I was often out in harsh sunlight, and I’ll admit it, I loved to tan. Not anymore! Consider me a fan of the no-tanning trend; these days it’s all about protection. According to dermatologist Cheryl Karcher M.D., sun damage is the number one cause of lines and wrinkles, and not only leaves dark spots, it can cause skin cancer.

You are what you eat.

Nutritionist after nutritionist will tell you that what is in your gut will appear on your face, and it’s true! If your insides aren’t happy, neither is your skin. Add healthy omega-3 fats to your diet by munching on avocados and almonds, and drink plenty of water. Most sallow, dull looking skin is from lack of hydration.

Moisturize!

For years I never moisturized because I thought I had oily skin. I broke out, my skin was red, and my pores were clogged. Fast forward five years and I am a moisturizer convert. I layer on the products—serum, moisturizer, facial mist—for optimal hydration. When you don’t moisturize your skin will automatically overproduce sebum, so you actually end up oilier. Cruel cycle huh? If you still feel like your skin is a natural oil slick, opt for a gel, oil-free formula designed for oily or combination skin.