How to Give Skin an “Airbrushed” Effect — Naturally
These three skincare tips can help reveal ultra-flattering skin — no filter necessary
Social media filters can give the skin a more luminous – or “airbrushed” — look in just one click. Although the outcome is entirely artificial, the popularity of filters offers a glimpse of what women really want when it comes to their image: photo-ready skin. But what if there was a way for women to achieve the same effect without technology?
While airbrushed skin may seem like an impossible beauty goal, it’s based on a few simple principles and key ingredients with powerfully hydrating properties. To get a photo-ready complexion at home, follow these tips.
Cleanse Gently
Luminous skin starts with clean skin. Cleansing away dirt, makeup and debris with a gentle cleanser can make all the difference in achieving an airbrushed effect. First of all, it allows treatment products, like moisturizers, to do their job. Secondly, it offers a clear canvas on which to apply primer and makeup.
How to choose a cleanser: A gentle cleanser with non-irritating ingredients is the best choice for everyday use. These ingredients won’t disrupt the skin’s pH balance nor will they cause irritation, dryness or redness (which may happen with ingredients like acids or retinols). Hydrating cleansers, containing squalane or plant-based oils, can work double-duty by sweeping away dirt and makeup while replenishing the skin’s moisture barrier.
Where to find it: Liquid Silk Foaming Cleanser
Hydrate Right
Dry skin can produce skin that feels and looks rough. Dehydrated skin has its own host of problems like flakiness, dullness or itchiness. To begin correcting dry or dehydrated skin, applying a moisturizer is a no-brainer. However, lotions and creams are not created equal. To nix the flakes and achieve a pillowy soft surface, facial skin requires intense moisture from the “holy grail” of hydrators: emollients.
Emollients
Emollients are known as super hydrators. Not only do emollients soften skin, but they also lock in moisture for long-term hydration. Thanks to calming properties, emollients also can help manage the dry, itchy or scaly conditions associated with dry or dehydrated skin. To prevent or repair a dry complexion, look for moisturizers that contain one or more of the following emollients.
Prickly Pear Seed Oil
Extracted from the prickly pear cactus, prickly pear seed oil can deeply penetrate skin to hydrate it and help lock in moisture. It does all of this while still being very lightweight, non-greasy and non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts. This plant-based ingredient provides powerful hydration for all skin types including dry, acne-prone or oily skin.
Where to find it: Lunalis’ Extreme Face Oil
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is another super hydrator that contains two powerful fatty acids: omega-3 (linolenic acid) and omega-6 (linoleic acid). Known as the building blocks of healthy skin cells, fatty acids can effectively soften skin and prevent water loss. Rosehip oil also boasts antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and vitamins A and C, all of which support improved tone and texture.
Where to find it: Lunalis’ Hydra Renewal Cream
Shea Butter
Thanks to linoleic acid, shea butter strengthens the outermost layer of skin, while preventing moisture from escaping. Shea butter is often combined with other hydrators like prickly pear seed oil or pomegranate oil for next-level hydration. And don’t be fooled by the name. Shea butter absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave behind a greasy feel or sheen.
Where to find it: Lunalis’ Hydra Renewal Cream
Start a Healthy Skin Habit
After locating the ideal skincare routine, make it a daily habit. Lovely skin is all about consistency and following directions. Read and follow the instructions written on skincare product labels. When incorporating multiple treatments, apply products from the thinnest consistency (oils) to the thickest (creams) every day to see results.
Photo-Ready Skin
Giving skin an airbrushed effect doesn’t start with a filter. It starts at home with a consistent, high-quality skincare habit. When in doubt, pamper facial skin with a cleanser that quenches the complexion. Follow up immediately with emollient moisturizers that can keep skin smooth and bright. Lastly, smile for the camera!
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Give skin the airbrushed effect. Lunalis can help. Visit the website to explore skincare solutions that do more with less.
