Why beautiful, plump skin is so hot this winter
Plump skin celebrates a supple, healthy look and is the latest fresh-faced finish to go viral. Here is how to achieve that glow-from-within aesthetic.
In recent years, we’ve seen everything from glazed ‘donut skin’, ‘glass skin’ and ‘cloud skin’ trending in the skincare community, and now plump skin is the latest skin finish du jour.
Also known as ‘jello skin’ to describe its jelly-like sheen, plump skin is all about supple hydration from the inside out and glowing from within.
For those wanting to achieve the look at home, Queensland dermatologist Dr Leona Yip suggests a combination of topical skin care, adequate sun protection and healthy lifestyle principles.
“Establish a consistent skincare routine that maintains skin hydration and supports collagen stimulation,” Dr Yip says.
“I recommend active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that are suitable for all skin types.
“It’s also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep, stay hydrated, quit smoking and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.”
Dr Yip recommends incorporating a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and proteins to support skin health.
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Healthy lifestyle actions for plump skin
Adequate H2O is the way to go
Water and its relationship with hydrated skin has long been documented, with adequate water intake linked to offsetting transepidermal water loss which, in turn, can help to improve skin hydration.
According to the Australian Dietary Guidelines, women should consume around two litres or roughly eight glasses of water daily, but factors such as weight, height and certain medications (for example, diuretics) can influence water consumption recommendations.
“Maintaining proper hydration and a balanced diet is especially important,” Janis McNicholas, Head of Medical Sales and Training, Pierre Fabre Australia, says.
“Nourishing the body from inside out will promote collagen production and supple skin.
“One of the biggest contributors to premature ageing and loss of plumpness is excessive sun exposure, so using SPF every day, including winter, and reapplying regularly will contribute to keeping a supple and plump complexion.”
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Adjust your lifestyle
A healthy diet, adequate sleep and regular exercise provide the blueprint for radiant, plump skin – which can be further enhanced by a diet rich in essential fatty acids.
EFAs have also been linked to a more supple skin texture since these compounds strengthen cell walls that allow your skin to better retain moisture and nutrients.
Adequate sun protection is also important.
“One of the biggest contributors to premature ageing and loss of plumpness is excessive sun exposure, so daily sun protection can help your complexion remain supple and plump,” Janis says.
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Improve your skincare IQ
The importance of keeping your skin moisturised – especially in the harsh, dry months of winter – isn’t a new concept, but certain skincare ingredients can provide a bigger hydration boost than others.
“Key ingredients play an important role in supple and plump-looking skin,” SA Skin clinic director and dermal therapist Sophie Austin says.
Make these two ingredients part of your go-to skincare routine:
Hyaluronic acid
“Hyaluronic acid helps to retain moisture and is a great hydrating ingredient that can be used topically or as a supplement.
“It can also be acquired through consuming citrus fruits, nuts and seeds, leafy greens, root vegetables, and tofu.”
According to Sophie, retinol – a form of vitamin A – is another important ingredient for plump skin. “It works by encouraging cell renewal, which enhances collagen production,” she says.
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Collagen
Collagen is important in skin care because it’s largely responsible for youthful, plump skin. Unfortunately, natural collagen production levels drop with age, which is why collagen-boosting foods such as dark leafy greens, eggs and bone broth are often recommended.
Alternatively, collagen supplement use has been found to increase skin hydration, elasticity and dermal collagen density.
“Collagen is what gives our skin its strength and elasticity, and it’s what keeps our skin looking fresh and plump,” Sophie says.
“There are lots of ways to try to stimulate the synthesis of collagen within the skin; creams and serums with collagen-boosting ingredients can help at home.”
Sophie says another option to offset collagen loss is through treatments such as microneedling, chemical peels, LED light therapy and laser resurfacing.
More on skin finishes, plus the latest must-have skincare ingredients:
- Why ‘glazed donut’ skin is the look celebs are fawning over>
- How to nail the ‘cloud skin’ trend
- Why ‘slugging’ could be the key to smooth, glass-like skin
- Why polyglutamic acid has the beauty world buzzing
- Witch hazel: Why Gen Z are loving this skincare classic
Written by Charlotte Brundrett.
