When it comes to flawless skin, it’s not just about the makeup you wear but also how you care for your skin beneath it. As a top makeup artist, I know that a glowing complexion is the best foundation you can have. Whether you’re prepping for a big event or want to enhance your daily skincare routine, understanding how your skin works and what it truly needs is key.
In this guide, I’ll break down six science-based tips to help you achieve radiant, healthy skin, targeting each layer from the surface to the deepest tissue. Let’s get into the essentials of great skincare!

1. Exfoliate the Right Way for a Smooth Canvas (Epidermis)
Exfoliation is a must in any skincare routine. The top layer of your skin, the epidermis, naturally sheds dead cells, but sometimes they stick around and cause dullness, dryness, or breakouts. Here’s how to exfoliate like a pro:
- Choose a chemical exfoliant: These are gentler on the skin than physical scrubs and give you a polished look without irritation.
- For dry or sun-damaged skin, use an exfoliant with hyaluronic acid to help repair damage while removing dead cells.
- For oily or acne-prone skin, opt for BHA (beta hydroxy acid) exfoliants, which dive deeper into your pores to clear out oil and prevent breakouts.
How to apply:
- Use a pea-sized amount on a damp face.
- Gently massage in circular motions, focusing on upward strokes. This not only buffs away dead skin but also improves circulation.
- Rinse thoroughly after 30 seconds.
Pro tip: Only exfoliate once or twice a week to avoid over-stripping your skin. If your skin is oily, you can exfoliate up to three times a week for best results.
2. Boost Skin Regeneration with Tretinoin (Epidermis)
If you want smooth, youthful skin, let me introduce you to one of the most researched and effective skincare ingredients: Tretinoin. This powerhouse ingredient, derived from vitamin A, accelerates skin cell turnover, helping to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and acne.
- Science-backed benefits: A comprehensive analysis by the National Library of Medicine reviewed 180 studies on Tretinoin, confirming its safety and effectiveness in long-term skin care. It not only improves the appearance of the epidermis but also enhances your skin’s ability to renew itself, giving you a fresher, more radiant look.
How to use:
- Start with a small amount, applying it to your face at night after cleansing.
- Follow up with a good moisturizer to prevent dryness and irritation.
Pro tip: Tretinoin can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so always use sunscreen during the day.
3. Protect Your Skin’s Structure with Vitamin C (Dermis)
Moving deeper, the dermis layer is where the magic happens in terms of skin strength and elasticity. Proteoglycans in this layer play a critical role in maintaining hydration and preventing wrinkles. However, as we age, the production of these essential proteins decreases.
- Increase Vitamin C intake: Vitamin C is vital for collagen production, which in turn supports proteoglycan health. It’s both an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory, making it essential for vibrant skin.
- Aim for 90 mg of Vitamin C daily through your diet or skincare products. A high-quality Vitamin C serum can make all the difference in keeping your skin firm and youthful.
Pro tip: For best results, use a Vitamin C serum in the morning, followed by sunscreen. This combination helps protect your skin from sun damage while boosting collagen production.
4. Hydrate and Plump with Hyaluronic Acid (Dermis)
Hyaluronic acid is your skin’s best friend when it comes to maintaining hydration and a plump appearance. This naturally occurring substance in the dermis can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it essential for keeping your skin smooth and supple.
- Application tips:
- After cleansing, apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin to help lock in moisture.
- Follow up with a high-quality moisturizer to seal in the hydration and keep your skin looking fresh all day.
Pro tip: Use hyaluronic acid both in the morning and at night to keep your skin continuously hydrated, especially in dry or cold climates.
5. Nourish Your Skin from Within with Antioxidants (Hypodermis)
The deepest layer of your skin, the hypodermis, is crucial for maintaining overall skin health. Since this layer can’t be reached by topical products, you need to nourish it from within.
- Antioxidants to the rescue: Consuming foods rich in antioxidants helps protect your skin from damage at the cellular level. Experts recommend around 12,000 ORAC units of antioxidants daily.
Top antioxidant-rich foods:
- Dark chocolate: 100g contains about 210
mg of flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants that improve blood flow to the skin.
- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with vitamins A and C, both crucial for skin repair and hydration.
- Green tea: Rich in catechins, green tea helps protect your skin from sun damage and reduces inflammation.
Pro tip: Incorporate a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables into your diet to ensure you’re getting a broad spectrum of antioxidants.
6. Shield Your Skin with Sunscreen Daily (All Layers)
No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. Protecting your skin from UV damage is one of the most important things you can do for long-term skin health. UV rays can penetrate all layers of the skin, leading to premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer.
- Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher: Use a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Apply generously: Don’t skimp on sunscreen. Apply about a nickel-sized amount to your face and a shot glass-sized amount to your body.
- Reapply: Every two hours, especially if you’re outside or sweating.
Pro tip: For added protection, use makeup products that contain SPF. Layering your sun protection is a smart way to ensure your skin is fully shielded from harmful rays.
Healthy, glowing skin doesn’t happen overnight, but by incorporating these science-based tips into your routine, you can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s appearance and health. Remember, skincare is not just about what you put on your skin, but also about how you nourish and protect it from within. Stay consistent with these practices, and your skin will thank you with a radiant glow that no makeup can match.
By following these tips, you’re not just enhancing your skin’s beauty, but also ensuring its health for years to come. Here’s to achieving that flawless complexion you’ve always dreamed of!