Everyone wants healthy, glowing skin, but the honest truth is some of us aren’t fully committed to the cause. It’s a sobering realization that skin care products, while fun to experiment with, can only do so much to help you get a flawless complexion. And let’s be real for a second: using the trendiest, most expensive cleansers, serums and face masks won’t amount to much if you do things like falling asleep with a full face of makeup, drinking mimosas every day, or sacrificing sleep for “just one more” episode of your favorite series on Hulu. Hey, no judgment here—as I write this article at 3 a.m., I’m sipping cheap champagne while Dawson’s Creek (#TeamPacey) plays faintly in the background.

The point? Nobody’s perfect and locking down a skin-care regimen that actually works is only half the battle; the key to glowing skin goes beyond the beauty cabinet. Since I’m a work in progress, I sought the advice of two movers and shaker-uppers of the wellness industry, plant-based wellness blogger and lifestyle media contributor, Chelsea Williams, MPH (Master in Public Health), CCPH (Certified Communicator in Public Health) and Dr. Adeline N., resident dermatologist and founder of @brownskinderm, a platform dedicated to medically sound skin care and dermatologic health advice for all skin types, especially skin of color. They gave us the lowdown on how you can get your glow on in addition to your everyday skin routine. 

Choose Hydration With Something Extra

Drink Nettle Tea

“Nettle tea is an herbal tea made from the flowering nettle plant that’s native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. It’s been proven to improve acne, heal eczema, and help speed up healing of blemishes and scars thanks to its diuretic, antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. Drink two to three cups per day for two weeks, take one week off, then repeat. Be sure to consult your physician prior to consumption if you’re diabetic, pregnant, or breastfeeding.” – Chelsea Williams, MPH, CCPH

You are What You Eat, So…

Eat More Okra

“Okra is rich in fiber, keeping digestive problems at bay. It’s also rich in Vitamin C, which promotes firm, supple, [and] younger-looking skin. This helps make your skin look more vibrant. Add it to your favorite soups or stews.” – Chelsea Williams, MPH, CCPH

Embrace an Antioxidant-Rich Diet

“Antioxidants are not only meant to be put on our skin, they’re even better when consumed in our diet. Think of it as your internal skincare regime. Antioxidants help replenish the cells that make up [the] critical organs in our bodies, including the largest one — our skin. Eat fruits, vegetables, and nuts including strawberries, oranges, carrots, broccoli and more!” – Dr. Adeline N.

Incorporate Probiotics For Good Gut Health

“Probiotics, also known as ‘good bacteria,’ can improve digestion, eliminate toxins, and free radicals that damage skin and contribute to early signs of aging. Probiotics have also been used to treat allergic disorders such as atopic dermatitis. Vegan kimchi, coconut yogurt, and sauerkraut are some great sources.” – Chelsea Williams, MPH, CCPH

Switch Up Your Home Habits

Refrain from Hot Showers

“They may feel amazing, especially after a long, tedious workday, but hot water strips away the natural moisture of your skin. Instead, shower for at least 10-15 minutes with lukewarm water. Avoid the use of harsh soaps which can injure [your skin and] make you more prone to breakouts and irritation.” – Dr. Adeline N.

Change Your Sheets Every Two Days

“You’re probably thinking, who has time to do that? If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you should strongly consider it. Your sheets hold sweat, dead skin cells, residue from personal care products, and bacteria that can cause blackheads and other breakouts on your face and body. Can’t change your sheets that frequently? At least swap out your pillowcases, as they tend to hold the most amount of dirt.” – Chelsea Williams, MPH, CCPH

Get More Beauty Sleep

“Sleep is vital to every aspect of our metabolism including skin health—try to get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep results in dehydrated skin, dark under eye circles and puffy eyes. Sleep deprivation can also make the skin more prone to allergies and outbreaks of acne, eczema or psoriasis.”  – Dr. Adeline N.

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Ready to make a change? Let’s take it slow together! Try to incorporate at least one of these tips into your routine this week. I think I’ll try getting more sleep. Which one will you try? Let us know on our Instagram @thechilltimes.

[Editor’s Note: Since we’re not know-it-alls, always make sure to consult with a doctor before trying anything new. We’re here to guide and provide information that could potentially help, but each person is different so do what’s right for you!]

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Feature Image via Vanessa Granda