25 Pro Beauty Tips to Turn Back the Clock

1. Boost Circulation with a Facial Massage

Facial massages don’t just feel amazing, they can majorly up your youthful glow by improving circulation and blood flow to skin. Kristabelle says, “Facial massage is not only a relaxing sensory experience, it supports healthy radiant skin from within, which I think is the true definition of youthfulness. Facial massage can reduce and release tension, help tighten the underlying muscle structure, promote blood and lymphatic circulation and increase the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the cells. A big part of skin aging is loss of circulation, and massaging your skin at home is such an easy way to encourage flow and increase your glow.”

Want to try an at-home facial massage? Here’s how with tips from Kristabelle:

• Go slow: “The slower and softer your speed and pressure, the better. You don't want to create any blockages or tension from harsh sporadic movements. Facial massage is all about allowing your body to slip into a state of rest and digest.” 

• Use a cleanser or oil: “If you're low on time, adding some intention to your cleanse can transform a habitual task into a self-care skin ritual. Oil cleansing is another way to utilize this, and spend a little more time tuning into your skin. These provide a gentle slip on the skin for your hands to massage.” Our pick: SUNDAY RILEY C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil for skin-soothing, glow-boosting benefits.

• Move up and out: “A good general guide to keep in mind is to go upwards and outwards to lift, and down the neck towards the collar bone to promote drainage. But don't get too caught up on doing everything ‘the right way.’ Simply doing what feels good is most important.” 

2. Try a Microcurrent Facial

“Microcurrent facials help to re-educate the muscles and firm the skin by toning, lifting, and sculpting the face,” says Kristabelle. “Electrical signals [from microcurrent] promote healthy circulation, heal, and regenerate the skin. It is also great for reducing puffiness, improving hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, production of collagen and elastin, inflammation, acne, and rosacea. Noticeable results begin immediately, and accumulate with regular sessions.”

3. Opt for LED facials

Those high-tech masks you’ve def seen during your Insta scroll? They’re great for bright, clear, youthful-looking skin. Kristabelle says. “Red light therapy stimulates fibroblast growth factors to help increase collagen production, while blue light therapy has proven to be an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne by killing acne bacteria beneath the skin's surface.” Dr. Engelman adds, “LED light therapy is another option for addressing a number of skin concerns ranging from acne to uneven skin tone to conditions like eczema and psoriasis, and more. The results depend on the light wave used—they can clarify, boost collagen, reduce inflammation, and more.”

4. Get into Gua Sha

Gua Sha—the traditional Chinese facial massage method in which a smooth stone is gently scraped against skin to promote lymphatic drainage, relieve muscle tension, and more—has been around for centuries. You can reap the benefits of Gua Sha at home, with a little training. “I believe in educating my clients on how to use their Gua Sha stones at home to build and maintain results in between appointments,” says Kristabelle. I've always been drawn to the energetic properties of crystals and facial massage. Gua sha marries the two wonderfully, and improves the health of your skin by clearing blockages and encouraging movement of lymphatic fluid and blood so that the skin can function better.”

5. Use Ice Rollers and Warm Compresses

Ice rollers feel so soothing on skin and work wonders to wake up our complexion on tired mornings. We often look to cooling techniques, but according to Kristabelle, you can incorporate cold and heat into your routine, depending on your skin’s needs. “At home ice rollers can be beneficial for temporary relief of redness and inflammation associated with acne and other reactive skin conditions that require a cool down,” says Kristabell. “If your main concern is puffiness or congestion, heat [like a warm compress] alternatively may be your skin's best friend to encourage flow and release of stagnated fluids.”

Our pick: VANITY PLANET Revive Facial Ice Roller that stays cold for up to two hours!

6. Don’t Forget Neck Care

We spend so much time applying face products, but your neck needs TLC to look and feel its best, too. “The skin of the neck and décolleté is thinner and more delicate than the skin on other areas of the body, which makes it more prone to aging, and more reflective of aging signs earlier on.” Dr. Engelman says, “Many people don’t apply sunscreen as diligently on their neck and chest (even if they’re consistent about applying it to their faces), so this is an area where we see early aging signs from sun exposure. These days, constant exposure to blue light radiation emitted by our electronics means that we are seeing neck changes earlier than ever. 

Dr. Engleman’s Tip: “Take good care of the neck and decollete by moisturizing, applying sunscreen, lifting and smoothing the area with treatments (Dr. Engelman suggests: SIO NeckLift), and even swiping with a peel pad or chemical exfoliant every so often to help prevent signs of aging in this area.”

7. Get Brighter, Even-Toned Skin with Vitamin C

Vitamin C, our go-to ingredient for bright, even-toned complexion, is also key for addressing age spots and overall dullness. Dr. Engelman says, “Vitamin C helps skin remain bright by neutralizing oxidative stress before it causes cell damage that ultimately leads to signs of aging. Vitamin C targets free radicals that contribute to a weaker skin barrier and increased signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and more. In doing so, [vitamin C] promotes glowier, healthier skin.

Dr. Engleman’s Tip: “One of my favorite tips for healthy, glowing skin is to layer vitamin C under your SPF. This helps prevent acne breakouts from the sunscreen, and it provides additional protection against environmental aggressors.” (Dr. Engelman suggests: BLISS Bright Idea Serum made with clinical-grade vitamin C and tri-peptides that make it perfect for layering under sunscreen.)

8. Drink Up Your H20

It’s no secret your entire body needs adequate water to function at its best. The same goes for your skin that craves water and hydration-boosting skincare. “Hydration is crucial not just for skin’s appearance, but also for proper skin barrier function. We need moisture in our skin to carry the proper nutrients and flush out toxins. When skin does not have enough moisture, it appears more sunken and dull, which magnifies signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles.”

Dr. Engelman’s Tip: “I recommend applying moisturizer twice a day, drinking lots of water, and taking lukewarm or cool showers instead of very hot ones. I also suggest this “soak and grease” method: Immediately after showering or bathing, while your skin is still wet, apply a body oil or moisturizer to lock in hydration.”

9. Wear Sunscreen Every. Single. Day.

“Whenever you expose your skin to the elements without sunscreen and/or protective clothing, you risk early signs of aging (fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, etc.) and possibly even permanent skin damage or skin cancer,” says Dr. Engelman. “Even when it’s cloudy outside or when you’re inside, you are still vulnerable to UV rays, pollutants, and even blue light emitted from your electronics. It’s crucial to protect your skin with SPF completely by applying an even layer of SPF 30 or higher (I recommend an SPF of 50 or above if you are going outdoors for long periods of time.) If you’re outside, reapply your sunscreen every hour or so, or more frequently if you’re sweating a lot or swimming.”

Dr. Engelman’s Tip: “Find a sunscreen that you like and that works well for your skin. I often say that the best sunscreen for you is the one that you will remember to use regularly! Tinted SPF, likeGLO SKIN BEAUTY’s C-Shield Anti-Pollution Moisture Tint SPF 30+ is an easy way to incorporate SPF into your morning skincare routine because it acts as SPF and light coverage, and, in the case of this Glo formula, moisturizer as well.

10. Use Cream or Liquid Bronzer

Using bronzer has many youth-boosting benefits for your appearance. Bronzer can add instant warmth to combat dullness, and help add dimension to certain areas of your face. For mature, aging, or dry skin that typically needs more moisture, choosing the right type of bronzer is key. Liquid and cream bronzers will help keep skin looking moisturized, and typically illuminate skin to boost your overall glow. Dry powders tend to settle more into fine lines and enhance texture. When in doubt, opt for creamy or liquid bronzer formulas.

Our pick: FENTY BEAUTY Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer that’s light-as-air, non-greasy, hydrating, and made in shades for all skin tones.

11. Hand Care is Key

Have you heard that your hands show your age sooner than the rest of you? It just might be true. “Our hands tend to age faster because they are much more exposed to sun damage, wind, and harsh temperatures compared to other parts of our bodies which tend to be covered up or protected with sunscreen,” says Dr. Engelman. “Washing our hands also strips them of natural oils, which can cause them to dry out and appear to age faster if we don’t replenish and strengthen the skin barrier with creams and topical products. Not many people think to use sunscreen on their hands every day, but this can make a big difference in preventing aging.”

Dr. Engleman’s Tip: “Moisturizing hands after washing and before bed also helps keep them hydrated and slows down wrinkles and other signs of aging. Another good tip is to rub excess product from your facial skincare routine on your hands.”

12. Fine Lines? Try Under Eye Filler

New to filler? It’s a fast fix that just might be worth the price tag for helping improve fine lines, crow’s feet, and hollowness. Dr. Engleman says, “Under eye filler injections can be a great tool for improving skin’s plumpness and replenishing hyaluronic acid, which we lose naturally as we age. Injected into the U-shaped tear trough region below the eyes, hyaluronic acid fillers smooth out fine lines and under eye wrinkles and add volume in an area that tends to become sunken with age. If considering this procedure, I recommend first asking your dermatologist if fillers are the right approach for you.”

13. Prep Skin Before Adding Coverage

Your under-eye area is made of skin that’s more delicate than the rest of your face. For that reason, it can show signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkles sooner than later. Concealer goes a long way to hide dark circles, give the eye area a bright, youthful appearance, and even fake a few extra hours of sleep. But it’s important to apply it correctly to prevent it from settling into fine lines. 

Our pick: IT COSMETICS Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Concealer delivers full, waterproof coverage for up to 24 hours and nurtures skin with peptides, collagen, vitamin E, and more.

For foundation, hydration is key when it comes to a flawless, radiant finish. Guzman’s go-to prep hydrates at every step: “Use micellar water and a cotton pad to clean up the skin, then spray your favorite toner (I’m using rose water or a toner with hyaluronic acid). Moisturize skin with your favorite moisturizer, then use your favorite primer (glow primer for dry skin) for dewy effect.” The type of foundation you use matters too. Guzman says, “For mature skin, use a very light coverage foundation with skincare in it. You need to look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or collagen.” 

Our pick: A lightweight, skincare-infused formula like TARTE Hydroflex Serum Foundation made with moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid.

14. Blend Makeup the Right Way

No matter how amazing your makeup formulas are, if you don’t apply them correctly they won’t give you the naturally flawless, younger-looking complexion you seek. “Different makeup tools for foundation can impact the amount of coverage you get,” Guzman says. “For example, a sponge absorbs more product than a brush does.” Foundation, concealer, even eyeshadows and blush can settle into fine lines, or sit atop skin and enhance imperfections if they’re not blended correctly. Ready to blend the right way? Guzman’s shares her tips for perfect foundation application:

For lighter coverage: Use a damp Beautyblender to apply foundation. It will help to absorb some of the product and create a sheer finish.

For medium coverage: Use any synthetic foundation brush, for example, the rounded kabuki brush is great for buffing out foundation for sheer look.

For full coverage: Use a flat synthetic brush and then a Beautyblender. Avoid pressing the Beautyblender down too hard. Instead, use sweeping motions.

15. Hyaluronic Acid is Your Holy Grail

We come back to this beloved ingredient time and again because of its glow-boosting, hydration-locking abilities. It’s just as beneficial if you’re seeking younger-looking skin. “Hyaluronic acid, naturally produced by our body, is a humectant, which means that it attracts and holds moisture in the skin. Hyaluronic acid can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, which makes it an excellent ingredient for boosting hydration. Over time, our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid, so supplementing the skin with hyaluronic acid helps plump the skin and contribute to a more youthful appearance,” says Dr. Engelman. 

Our pick: FIRST AID BEAUTY Ultra Repair Hydrating Serum features hyaluronic acid, colloidal oatmeal, and aloe for major hydration and skin-soothing benefits.

16. Embrace the Magic of Retinol

“Retinol, the active form of vitamin A, is an amazing ingredient for reducing signs of aging and strengthening the skin barrier. It can connect to nearly any skin cell receptor site and signal it to behave like a younger and healthier skin cell. Retinol also has antioxidant properties that allow it to combat free radical damage and prevent signs of aging. Over time, retinol improves collagen and elastin production, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, and overall strengthens the skin barrier.”

17. Healthy Hair Starts with Scalp Care

You may have heard that healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp—and you bet it’s true. As we age, our hair can look thinner and less voluminous, and a scalp massage can help. “Taking care of the scalp is key for supporting healthier hair,” says Dr. Engelman. “Make sure to regularly “detox” the scalp by exfoliating away any dead skin cell or product buildup. (Dr. Engelman suggests: NATURELAB TOKYO’s Clarifying Scalp Scrub, which gently exfoliates the skin of the scalp and supports healthy hair growth with sake water (rich in probiotics) and tea tree oil.)

18. Use Volumizing Shampoos

“I recommend a volumizing shampoo for fine hair because they tend not to be too heavy so it won’t weigh the hair down,” says Bethel. Volumizing shampoos aim to give weightlessness and bounce to hair, and often feature ingredients like proteins and collagen to add body to your strands. Using a volumizing shampoo can help give flat, limp, or thinning hair life. 

Our pick: BRIOGEO Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Volumizing Shampoo to give hair instant fullness and long-term benefits to support hair health.

19. Boost Brows with Castor Oil

Healthy, full brows are more than a trend, they can also give a more youthful-look to your face overall. Because brows tend to thin with age, it’s important to treat them delicately and with hair-helping nutrients to encourage growth. Enter: Castor oil. This nutrient-rich oil moisturizes without clogging pores and follicles, and, according to Guzman, can help your brows grow faster (she recommends using it before bed). How do you apply it? Start with clean brows, and use a clean mascara wand or spoolie to swipe it through brows. Gently massage it in, and let your brows soak up the nourishing ingredient.

20. Build Collagen with Supplements

We’ve seen tons of collagen-boosting skincare, but according to Dr. Engelman, adding collagen supplements to your diet brings better results. “Since collagen is a large molecule, applying it topically does not prove to be very effective. Dietary supplements are a more efficient way to boost collagen. I personally like RESERVEAGE Collagen Replenish Powder and recommend it to my patients. It contains verisol collagen, which is one of only two varieties of collagen that have shown scientific results in two weeks. It’s also tasteless and odorless, which makes it easy to add into your diet daily by mixing it into any beverage.” 

21. Try a Laser Treatment

We love a good laser treatment to help improve your youthful-look by revealing brighter, better skin. Dr. Engelman says, “Laser treatments target various pigments within the skin to create a controlled ‘injury’ that triggers the body’s natural healing processes and corrects dark marks, acne scars, and other concerns. This can be extremely effective for making skin look more smooth, even-toned and youthful.”

22. Smooth and Plump Lips

Like your under eyes, the skin on your lips is thinner than the rest of your face, which means it's more prone to developing fine lines and losing volume with age.. Always swipe on a hydrating lip balm to help smooth and keep lips flake-free. Then, apply lip liner to help build up lip shape that can also become less visible with age. Use a moisturizing lip color to keep lips looking hydrated and plump.

Our Pick: A soft, hydrating multitasking lip liner like THRIVE CAUSEMETICS Lip Filler Long Wearing + Plumping Lip Liner. 

23. Try a Bob Haircut

Looking for a new hairstyle? If your hair is on the finer side or if you’re experiencing thinning, a short haircut will help remove weight that can pull your hair down, making it appear flat. The answer? Go for the chop, specifically, a blunt one. “I love a one-length bob haircut—it makes the hair look fuller and thicker and the bob has a chic vibe!” say Bethel.

24. Enhance Brows with Makeup

We covered how to help sparse brows grow, but if you’re looking for instant results, reach for your favorite brow products. Guzman’s fool-proof method: Brush your brows up, apply a brow tint to shape the brows, then brush the brows up again with a brow fixing gel.” Brushing up your brows gives them a thicker, more fluffy effect. Tint can add depth and cover any grays. And a brow gel will lock it all into place.

25. Brighten Up with Highlighter

Highlighter is a beauty product we reach for whenever our complexion needs a pick-me-up. While it won’t make you look years younger, it can help give the appearance of bright, healthy skin. “Add highlighter to the highest point of the center of your eyelids to make eyes appear bigger and brighter,” Guzman says. Look for a formula with slightly illuminating pigments to give skin a healthy glow. 

Our pick: THRIVE CAUSEMETICS Brilliant Eye Brightener, a cream-to-powder highlighter that gives skin a naturally luminous look wherever you apply.

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