If you’re anything like us, the approach of summer—the rising temps, giant iced coffees, online bikini shopping—means conjuring up that annual, mental checklist of things we have to do before summer’s end. At the top of that list, one major, must-have: glowy, hydrated, radiant skin. 

Here’s the thing, when it comes to what goes on our skin we’ve got it down pat, evidenced by our stocks of SPF and fancy serums that promise a makeup-free highlight. But the truth is, that *glow from within*, actually starts within. As our body’s largest organ, our skin is a direct reflection of what’s happening on the inside. So what’s the 101 on getting that glow? Here are our top three tips for glowing skin. 

But first, water.

64oz to be exact. Water helps detoxify your body of all the stuff you don’t need which, in turn, keeps your skin clear and hydrated. Hydration is key to a supple, plump, and, you guessed it, glowy complexion. Without it, our skin becomes dry, tight, and more prone to wrinkling. Bottom line: water is your BFF. Trust. 

Collagen is key.

The not-so-good news: in our mid-20s, things like stress, pollution, and sun exposure, cause our bodies to produce less collagen. Collagen is an anti-inflammatory protein responsible for keeping our skin firm and supple. The good news: in your early-20’s your skin is still super resilient and can repair itself quickly. Because collagen is ‘activated’ by vitamin C we can boost our natural collagen production by eating vitamin C-rich foods or taking supplements (hello, Good to Glow) with hydrolyzed collagen in them. Bonus: not only will collagen give you glowing skin, but it’s also one of the best vitamins for hair and nails.  

Say it with us: Ash-wa-gan-dha.

Ashwagandha is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from free radicals and damage. It also slows down the aging process by firming up the skin for a more glowy, luminous look. In short, yea, it’s sort of a miracle product.  

And there you have it. Three ways to nourish your way to glowing, effortlessly-beautiful skin. Got questions? Comment below!