The Secret To Glowing Skin (Healthy Hollywood)

Nutritionist Keri Glassman, who regularly shares her expertise on Access Hollywood and Access Hollywood Live, is answering your nutrition, diet and health questions.

Want to know how celebrities are getting their fabulous post-baby bodies? And, if their diet plan is right for you? Is there a downside to the latest diet trend? Keri is here to help!

This week’s question…

“I watched the Oscars over the weekend and saw how luminous all the celebrities’ skin looked. Doesn’t the dry winter weather affect them too? How can I get gorgeous skin like theirs?” — Alison F., Grand Rapids, MI

Keri says…

You’re right! There was a definite trend on the Red Carpet, and it wasn’t statement earrings. We were so distracted by starlets like Jennifer Lawrence, Lupita Nyong’o, and Sandra Bullock who sported extra radiant skin that we almost missed the speeches! But don’t think luminous skin is out of your reach. We know celebs have personal trainers, chefs, and even skin care teams to help them look their best, but it’s 100% possible to get A-list looks without paying for it like a star. In fact, there are many natural, easy ways to get that red carpet glow, simply by making a stop in the kitchen. So stop asking Google where Reese Witherspoon got her pre-Oscar’s facial, and read on.

Caffeinated coffee can do more than pull you out of your morning slump. When applied to your skin, coffee grounds have been shown to improve fine lines, wrinkles, and discoloration of the skin. This is because coffee is an alkaloid, which when applied topically, eliminates UV-damaged skin cells and reduces skin roughness.
The scrub below also uses yogurt, which contains lactic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid that helps remove dead skin cells and moisturizes your skin to give it a smooth glow. Yogurt will also stimulate collagen production for a youthful appearance. You’ll be so radiant, the papz just might start following you around.

Caffeinated Yogurt Scrub:

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tsp coffee, ground

Mix coffee and yogurt until well blended. Exfoliate by applying to dry areas and gently massaging skin in a circular motion with hands. Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat skin dry. Apply moisturizer.

You’ve seen cucumber slices placed over women’s eyes (perhaps even in pictures of your great grandmother). The reason cucs are a forever beauty food, is because they are so…effective. What could a small slice of cucumber possibly do just by sitting on your eyes? This green veggie packs a pretty powerful punch of phenols like caffeic acid, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It provides protection against skin damage, and skin care products add it in for its ability to soothe skin irritations and reduce swelling. Cucumber is also an astringent (translation: causes contraction of the skin), which means it helps to close pores, prevent oiliness, and refreshes your complexion.

I love this cucumber mask because it uses honey, which has antibacterial properties. Honey has been shown to reduce many types of bacteria on the skin. This mask also contains papaya and lemon juice. Both ingredients which are full of vitamin C, a nutrient known to increase collagen and elastin production. Vitamin C is key in countering the effects of sun damage and regulates your sebaceous glands, which keep the skin from drying out.

Cucumber Mask

• 1 cucumber, washed, skin on
• 1 papaya, peeled, seeded
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

Chop the cucumber and papaya into 1 inch pieces and blend together in a food processor or blender. Stir in the honey and lemon juice until the paste reaches a smooth consistency. Transfer the mask into a small bowl and apply an even layer over your face, neck, and any other dry areas. Let sit for 30 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Avocado has been a mainstay in natural skin care for a while now. It is high in sterolins, compounds that help soften and moisturize skin. Avocados are also high in vitamin E, which enhances collagen production for smoother skin while sealing in moisture. For a new way to reap the benefits of this natural skin-booster, try avocado oil. The oil penetrates deep into skin rather than staying on the surface, helping to nourish and rejuvenate. So go ahead and practice that red carpet strut because this skin care routine will have Cate Blanchett asking you what you do!

Avocado Moisturizer
Mix 1 teaspoon avocado oil with your favorite body lotion and apply to body, hands, and neck for an extra boost of moisture. Apply right out of the shower to prevent any excess moisture loss.

— Terri MacLeod & Keri Glassman