Glow Naturally: Top Skin Care Ingredients and Secrets for Radiant, Clear Skin

Best Skin Care Ingredients for Healthy, Glowing Skin no one is talking about

Everyone knows that ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, niacinamide, and other well-known skin care products are essential for youthful, glowing skin with an even tone. But what many don’t realize is that natural ingredients can offer even more benefits for your skin. Natural ingredients can work wonders when it comes to keeping your skin clear, even, and radiant. In this blog, I’ll share my top skin care ingredients, key skin care tips like using ceramides and kojic acid, DIY recipes, and even the benefits of red light therapy. Let’s dive into the magic of natural skin care ingredients first.

Disclaimer: While these ingredients work wonders for me, skin care is highly personal. Please test all ingredients on a small patch of skin before applying them widely, and if you’re allergic to any of these ingredients, refrain from using them. We all have unique skin, so it’s best to be cautious.

1. Carrots

Carrots aren’t just great for eating; they also offer incredible benefits when applied to the skin. Rich in beta carotene and vitamin A, carrots can hydrate, protect, and soothe the skin. Beta carotene can protect your skin cells from UV rays, reduce sunburn, and soothe skin stress. This powerful antioxidant also helps slow down the skin aging process by improving elasticity, texture, hydration, and reducing wrinkles and age spots.

Carrot juice has been shown to brighten and even out skin tone, and it’s especially helpful for dry, sensitive skin. It also helps boost collagen production, reducing sensitivity and promoting skin renewal. To make a carrot-infused moisturizer, try grating carrots and boiling them with coconut oil for about 10 minutes. After straining and cooling, apply the carrot-infused coconut oil to the skin for a nourishing, hydrating treatment. This combination is perfect for anyone looking to soothe and hydrate their skin naturally.

2. Rice

Rice is packed with antioxidants, making it a fantastic skin-brightening ingredient. It can help fade dark spots and pigmentation over time, especially when used regularly. Many Korean and Indian women have used rice water as a skin treatment for its whitening and brightening effects. Rice water gently exfoliates, removes dead skin cells, and balances your skin’s pH.

Rice also boasts anti-aging benefits due to its amino acids, antioxidants, and minerals. It can lighten scars, soothe sunburns, reduce oily skin, and balance the overall appearance of your skin. To make a rice water mask, I love boiling water with black or brown rice, adding rosemary for extra benefits, and then mixing in sandalwood and castor oil. Leave the mixture on your face for 30 minutes to an hour for a revitalizing treatment. You can also use rice flour if you don’t have a powerful blender to make a paste.

3. Sandalwood

Sandalwood has been used in India for centuries as a skin treatment, especially during special occasions. This magical ingredient has cooling, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and exfoliating properties. It helps uplift skin tone, reduce hyperpigmentation, and treat dark circles. Sandalwood is packed with antioxidants, which prevent oxidative stress and repair damaged skin tissues. It’s also known for its ability to even out skin tone and remove impurities. Applying sandalwood to your face can reveal smoother, more radiant skin.

Skincare Routine: A Natural Approach

As a model and student, keeping my skin in tip-top shape is essential. Skincare isn’t just about the products you use but also about lifestyle and diet. In this section, I’ll share my holistic approach to skincare and how I keep my routine simple but effective.

Modeling and Skin Care

In the modeling industry, a natural appearance is highly valued. With agencies often prohibiting cosmetic surgery and other alterations, the emphasis is on maintaining healthy, youthful skin. While my look is largely due to genetics, skincare, and diet, I keep my routine short and sweet — no more than 20 minutes per day.

I don’t follow a strict diet, but I avoid sugar and gluten and prioritize healthier foods. Tea is an essential part of my routine, and I’ll share more on that later.

Morning Routine

• Face Mask (Honey + Turmeric, Papaya, Green Tea, Berries, Avocado, etc.): A gentle, soothing mask to start the day, usually made with honey, turmeric, and fermented strawberries. Honey softens and hydrates, while turmeric fights inflammation. I leave it on for 10 minutes while multitasking.
• Aloe Vera and Sandalwood Gel: Aloe vera is one of my most trusted skincare allies. It has anti-tanning and antibacterial properties that help heal acne and reduce inflammation. Sandalwood gel adds cooling effects to the skin, perfect for preventing sun damage.
• CeraVe SPF 30 with Hyaluronic Acid: I always use sunscreen, regardless of the weather, to protect my skin from harmful UV rays. This formula contains ceramides and peptides, helping to maintain my skin barrier.
• Glow & Lovely: This product has been improved since its rebranding, and now it offers a brightening effect without over-drying. It contains herbal ingredients that enhance the skin’s natural glow and even out tan lines.

Hydration and Nutrition: Hydration is key, so I start my day with a glass of water infused with lemon to boost metabolism and keep my skin glowing. I also drink green tea, known for its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Evening Skincare Routine

• Makeup Removal: It’s essential to remove all makeup to prevent clogged pores and skin irritation. I start by using a gentle makeup remover.
• Cleanse with Gentle Soap: I use kojic acid soap with turmeric for skin-lightening benefits. I also use CeraVe’s gentle cleanser to ensure my face is thoroughly clean.
• Quick Face Mask: I prepare weekly masks using ingredients like rice flour, cocoa powder, and ghee. These masks nourish the skin and target specific concerns like acne or dryness.
• Treatment: For acne, I use Curology’s customizable treatment formula. It’s helped clear up my skin and reduce scarring.
• Serum or Exfoliation (Optional): Occasionally, I use serums like vitamin C, retinol, or hyaluronic acid to target specific skin concerns, like dullness or aging.
• Dove Ceramide Moisturizer + Carrot-Infused Coconut Oil: I finish with a rich ceramide cream to lock in moisture and strengthen my skin barrier. The carrot-infused coconut oil adds brightening benefits and helps even out my skin tone.

Dietary Practices for Radiant Skin

Skincare isn’t just about the products you use externally; it’s also about the food you consume. Here are a few of my dietary practices for healthy, radiant skin:

• Green Tea and Herbal Teas: Teas like ginger, turmeric, and black pepper are packed with antioxidants that help fight skin issues from within.
• Gluten-Free Diet: I try to stick to a gluten-free diet, which helps prevent skin flare-ups and promotes a more even complexion.
• Fresh Foods: I prioritize fresh, whole foods over processed options, ensuring I get the best skin nutrients.
• Natural Smoothies: My smoothies are loaded with spinach, banana, berries, and almond milk, providing essential nutrients for glowing skin.

Remember, skincare is a journey, and what works for me may not work for everyone. I encourage you to experiment with different natural ingredients and find what suits your skin best. Consistency, hydration, and a healthy diet are key to achieving the best skin possible.