subject: How to Brighten Skin [print this page] How to Brighten Skin How to Brighten Skin
Is your complexion looking dull? There are many reasons why skin can lose its healthy sheen. Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to help regain your healthy glow. Just follow this guide on how to brighten your skin, and you will be able to perk your complexion back up in no time.
Skin can sometimes take on a dull, lackluster appearance for no apparent reason at all. In addition, age spots, sun damage and post-acne marks often contribute to a not-so-rosy complexion. However, by following a few steps it is easy to brighten skin and achieve a healthy, glowing face once again. What you put into your body as well as what you apply to your skin are both important when it comes to achieving a luminous complexion.
Skin care expert Keeley Selvage explains in this video ways that you can brighten your skin at home. Selvage says a freshly cut lemon rubbed over the face can exfoliate skin naturally. She recommends doing this at least twice a week for several months for best results.
Step 1: Feed Your Face
Your skin needs a variety of nutrients to look its best, many of which are found in everyday foods. Eating a well-balanced diet is essential for great skin. Be sure to eat foods rich in antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E, as well as B vitamins (especially biotin, or b-7). The following foods will contribute to a great complexion:
Dark, leafy greens.
Berries, such as blueberries or strawberries.
Plums.
Fish.
Low fat dairy products (yogurt is great).
Step 2: Exfoliate
Exfoliation has been used for centuries to brighten skin. In fact, it dates back to the ancient Egyptians. Exfoliating removes dead, dull skin cells from the top layer and reveals the newer, brighter looking skin underneath. There are a number of exfoliating products on the market, including scrubs as well as chemical peels. Take care not to over-exfoliate, as this can lead to cuts and other skin damage.
Step 3: Topical Treatments
There are a myriad of topical treatments that can be found at your local drugstore, or even over the Internet. Products containing alpha hydroxy acid (AHA, also known as glycolic acid), beta hydroxy acid (BHA, or salicylic acid) or hydroquinone are pretty good bets. Vitamin A and C treatments have also been shown to successfully brighten the skin.
