8 steps to clear, glowing skin

Great skin isn’t just about what you put on your face - it’s also about how you care for your body as a whole. Clear, glowing skin comes from consistent routines, healthy habits and a bit of patience.

Here are eight essential steps to achieve healthy, clear skin - from the inside.

1 Drink more water (Yes, really!)

Hydration plays a huge role in skin clarity. When you’re dehydrated, your skin will look dull, feel tight and become more prone to breakouts. Aim for at least 8–10 glasses of water a day -and even more if you’re active or in a hot climate.

Foods such as cucumber, watermelon and leafy greens are water-rich and help too.

2 Eat skin-friendly foods

What you eat shows up on your skin. A low-sugar, anti-inflammatory diet reduces breakouts, redness and sensitivity.

Here’s what your diet should include:

Omega-3 fatty acids (from salmon, walnut, flaxseed)

Antioxidants (found in colourful fruits and vegetables)

Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, kimchi)

If you’re acne-prone, cutting back on dairy and high-glycaemic foods (white bread and sweets) will make a noticeable difference.

3 Sleep is your skin’s repair time

Skin heals and regenerates while you sleep. If you’re not getting at least 7–9 hours of quality rest each night, your skin may appear tired, inflamed or prone to breakouts. No cream can replace the benefits of a good night’s sleep. Establish a calming night routine, limit screens before bed, and aim for consistent sleep and wake times.

4 Don’t underestimate stress

Stress affects your skin more than you think. It increases cortisol levels, which can trigger acne, eczema or rosacea flare-ups. Find healthy ways to unwind - whether that’s exercise, meditation, journaling or even just a few deep breaths. A calm mind leads to calmer skin.

5 Keep your skincare routine simple and consistent

You don’t need a long routine. In fact, too many products can overwhelm your skin.

Here’s a simple one:

Morning:

Gentle cleanser

Antioxidant serum (with Vitamin C or niacinamide)

Lightweight moisturiser

Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher

Evening:

Cleanser

Targeted treatment (salicylic acid or a retinoid)

Moisturiser

Exfoliate just 1–2 times a week if your skin can tolerate it. Over-exfoliating is a common mistake - it can lead to irritation, dryness or even more break-outs.

6 Don’t overdo it

Washing your face too often or using harsh scrubs will strip your skin’s natural barrier. Cleanse twice a day - morning and night - with a gentle, non-stripping cleanser. Avoid alcohol-based toners and rough physical exfoliants unless recommended by your dermatologist.

7 Move your body

Regular exercise improves blood flow and helps flush out toxins. Plus, it’s a fantastic stress reliever. Just be sure to cleanse your skin after sweating to prevent clogged pores or irritation from sweat and bacteria build-up.

8 Check your gut and hormones

If you’re dealing with stubborn acne or unexplained break-outs, it might be time to look inwards. Gut health and hormones play a major role in skin behaviour. Incorporating fibre, probiotics and reducing inflammatory foods support gut balance. And, if your acne seems hormonal (jawline, cycle-related, cystic), speak to a doctor or dermatologist for evaluation and treatment options.

In a nutshell, clear skin is a reflection of overall balance. Skincare helps, but lifestyle plays an equally important role. With consistency, smart habits and a bit of expert guidance, healthy skin is absolutely within reach.

(The author is a consultant dermatologist)