Glowing, radiant skin doesn’t belong exclusively to teenage TikTokers or celebrities with entire glam squads. It is totally possible to have a radiant glow about you whether you’re 18 or 80. Here are some things that will help you with that.

1. Rethink Your Approach to “Youthful” 

Before you do anything else, it would be good to remind yourself that being youthful does not necessarily just mean getting rid of as many wrinkles as you can or trying to get hold of the same skin elasticity you had when you were 20. A youthful glow is one that radiates from the inside of you. It’s about your mindset as much as it is about healthy habits and fancy face creams. Get your head in the game, and the rest will follow.

2. Invest in a Solid Skincare Regimen 

Let’s be real: the skincare aisle can feel like stepping into a labyrinth of potions, serums, and unpronounceable ingredients. However, you don’t need a 15-step routine that doubles as cardio for your arms. A few basics can go a long way: a gentle cleanser, a targeted serum (like the one with vitamin C or hyaluronic acid), a moisturizer that suits your skin type, and sunscreen. Sunscreen is your ride-or-die BFF in the fight against wrinkles, sun spots, and future regrets.

If you’re feeling ambitious, add an exfoliant (chemical or physical) once or twice a week to clear away dead skin cells. But remember: more is not necessarily merrier. Overdoing it can leave your skin red, sensitive, and thoroughly confused.

3. Don’t Skimp on Sleep (Netflix Can Wait) 

If you’re binge-watching your latest obsession until 3am every night, consider this your wake-up call—literally. Adequate sleep is a powerhouse for your skin, giving it time to rebuild collagen and repair daily damage. Less rest often equals more under-eye bags than your local grocery store. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality snooze time. If you’re feeling fancy, spritz a bit of lavender on your pillow or turn off electronics an hour before bed. You’ll thank yourself when you see a fresher, brighter face in the morning mirror.

4. Hydrate, Hydrate, Then Hydrate Some More 

Our bodies are roughly 60% water, and your skin loves to reflect when you’re skimping on hydration. Sip water throughout the day—plain, sparkling, fruit-infused, or practically any zero-sugar version you can stand. If you’re feeling extra parched, incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and tomatoes. Proper hydration plumps up your skin cells, minimizing the appearance of fine lines and giving you that dewy complexion you see on magazine covers (minus the airbrushing).

5. Eat (and Drink) Your Way to Radiance 

Pizza and fries? Delicious. Nutrient-rich? Not so much. While an occasional junk food treat won’t destroy your complexion, a balanced diet loaded with vitamins and antioxidants is your skin’s best friend. Think leafy greens, berries, nuts, and lean proteins. These foods help fight inflammation, encourage cell turnover, and support collagen production. Meanwhile, consider cutting back on excessive sugar and processed snacks (“cut back” not “banish” because life is too short to never enjoy a slice of birthday cake).

6. Move More, Glow More 

You don’t need to chain yourself to a treadmill or join a CrossFit cult to reap the benefits of exercise. Even a brisk daily walk, a living-room dance party, or gentle yoga can do wonders. Exercise boosts circulation, carries oxygen and nutrients to your skin, and helps flush out toxins. Plus, all those feel-good endorphins can reduce stress—another key factor in maintaining a youthful glow. If you can pair your workout with some sunshine (while wearing sunscreen, of course), you’ll get a gentle dose of vitamin D. Just don’t let that walk turn into a sunbathing marathon without protection.

7. If You Feel Good, You’ll Look Good Too

This might sound a bit woo-woo, but it really is true. If you feel good about yourself and you move confidently through the world, it will give you the kind of glow that no amount of expensive skincare can achieve. You will be glowing from within.

It can be hard to feel good about yourself when you start finding wrinkles or age spots, but just remind yourself that everyone gets older and changes, and that does not make you less beautiful or less relevant in the world. Practice self-care, get to know the new you, and you will soon be feeling your confident, radiant, best again.

Aging is a privilege that you should be grateful for, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep your glow too.