The ultimate skin care guide for porcelain complexions

Cate Blanchett. Nicole Kidman. Michelle Williams. If you’re blessed with a porcelain complexion the benefits extend from skin clarity to enhanced radiance. The trick to maintaining that translucent tone however, is to safeguard against the signs of ageing. In particular, UV exposure, which is the number one cause of non-chronological ageing in Australia. Here’s how to look after your lighter Caucasian skin tone through the ages. 

Your biggest skin concerns

Dr Véronique Delvigne, Scientific Director at Lancôme is blunt: “When compared to Asian or dark skin, this skin type shows the signs of ageing earliest.” Ageing signs are often more prominent, and less pigment means an increased likelihood of premature and greater skin wrinkling, sagging and sun damage. Skin also tends to get drier as it thins over time.

Skin care treatment tips

SPF is important. According to dermatologists, it’s the most important weapon we have against premature ageing, pigmentation and skin cancers. Opt for a broad-spectrum formula with a SPF of 50 and apply to clean skin before your base. Don’t overlook other issues however, like “skin firmness and shadow areas that can appear around the eyes and nose, colour variation and redness, and general modification of the skin colour and darkness. All of these are significant and will transform the global aspect of the face,” notes Dr Delvigne. Antioxidants such as vitamins A, C and E also offer excellent benefits—these neutralise cell damage when skin is exposed to pollution and sunlight, boost collagen and minimise inflammation.

The good news for fair skin

This skin type often appears fresher for longer. “Without the barrier of melanin, we can see the different skin layers,” explains Dr Delvigne. “Light reacts with these layers and is reflected.” To maintain a fresh, clear complexion, opt for skin care products that contain lighteners like vitamin C, hydroquinone and niacinamide and don’t forget that daily application of broad-spectrum 50+ sunscreen! It’s your new daily mantra.

Porcelain skin essentials:

La Mer The Intensive Revitalizing Mask

shu uemura TSUYA skin youth infusing eye concentrate

Clarins Double Serum

Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Hydrating Milk Cleanser

Origins Plantscription Powerful Lifting Cream

Ultraceuticals Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF 50+

Want to try the highlighting trend but can't get it to look right against your porcelain complexion? This is the makeup hack you need to try.

Get more skin care advice from the marie claire beauty team at marieclaire.com.au

Main image credit: Getty