How to get glowing skin

Journalist Sophie Hines reveals how a less-is-more skincare approach helped her get the glow

The beauty cupboard of a glossy magazine was where I staged an ambush several years ago. ‘What’s wrong with my face?’ I demanded of the (thankfully patient) beauty editor, pointing out the dullness, acne and inflammation that were blighting me.

She asked about my skincare routine, and, as I rattled off a list of products as long as my arm, held up her own to stop me. Her advice? ‘Strip it right back.’ She explained that I was irritating my skin with an over-zealous regime and needed just a select few products to achieve a longed-for glow.

While this wasn’t what I expected

— I assumed she’d suggest more products — it turns out she was right. Within weeks of simplifying my routine, my complexion was luminous rather than lacklustre; radiant instead of red.

It’s why the trend for ‘skinimalism’ appeals to me — I know it works.

Skinimalism means taking a more considered, minimalist approach to beauty. It’s a welcome relief for those who, like me, feel tired at the very thought of 10-step skincare regimes. Promoting hybrid products, all-in-onemake-up and skincare, this approach favours smart, multitasking formulas that serve your skin’s needs while saving time and money, as well as packaging waste.

Take Bobbi Brown and its new Intensive Serum Foundation SPF 40/30. Packed with 25 skincare ingredients, including cordyceps and hyaluronic acid, it provides up to 12-hours’ coverage and all-day moisture for a dewy glow. This clever hybrid offers a lightweight, non-caking formula with buildable coverage for a colour true to your skin that doesn’t fade, plus instant radiance that lasts from morning till night. It’s also high protection, with SPF up to 40. So, from desk to drinks, radiant skin is sorted.