Tips for keeping skin red-carpet-ready

Skin care of the stars

Certain facial features are universally beautiful. Big, almond-shaped eyes and pouty lips are popular turn-ons, but beautiful, clear, glowing skin transcends cultural ideals of beauty. That's exhibited by the celebrities we see on the big screen. Here's how to get and keep your skin red-carpet beautiful, based on your skin type.

For acne-prone skin

Acne-prone skin is typically oily by its very nature. You might say, "But my skin feels so dry!" That's probably because you're using a harsh, chemical-packed cleanser. It may seem like the best way to fight acne, but it's more like fighting fire with fire. Cleansers heavy in salicylic acid can fight acne temporarily, but can dehydrate the skin with extended use, ultimately causing more acne than before.

The top tip for glowing, acne-free skin is to let your skin balance itself out. Stop stripping it of its much-needed oils. Use a gentle cleanser to wash away dirt and makeup. Wash with cleanser only when something needs to be removed from the skin. Otherwise, simply splashing warm water on your face will do. Exfoliate dead skin away occasionally by gently swiping a warm washcloth over your face. It might sound crazy, but applying honey to your face will help hydrate and simultaneously dry up acne, leaving nothing but a glowing epidermis behind.

For dry or aging skin

Skin that feels consistently dry is crying out for moisture, and it's your job to keep it hydrated from the inside out. It seems like a no-brainer, but drinking water can help balance most complexions, especially those that are dry. From the outside, adding moisturizers to the skin is crucial to maintaining a healthy glow. Heavy creams can get greasy, so start with a moisturizer that absorbs well but doesn't leave a greasy sheen on the face.

To add a little extra moisture to the skin, mash up an avocado and honey mask. Crush a full avocado into a bowl, then add three tablespoons of honey. It will feel sticky and heavy on your face, but after 30 minutes, it will leave behind moisturized, glowing skin.

For every skin type

Whether your skin is dry, oily or somewhere in between, some basic principles of skin care apply to everyone. First, eat healthy. Sure, it's easier said than done, but foods like avocado, walnuts, blueberries and more are packed with antioxidants that enhance skin's glow. Bottom line: Get lots of exercise, limit your stress and drink plenty of water.

Watch: How to make your own all-natural face masks

Tired of spending a lot of money on facial products that don't work? Try on some masks made from items you already own. They're all natural and good enough to eat!

More red carpet beauty

Making (and keeping!) hair red-carpet ready
After the glamour: Best ways to repair damaged hair
Secrets to keeping your hair on the hot list

Photo credit: Ian Wilson/WENN.com