piel clara
/pjel klaɾa/from spelling rules
The English phrase 'clear skin' can be translated into Spanish as piel clara, referring to skin that is light in color or pale.
The phrase piel clara is used to describe skin that has a light or pale complexion. To express the opposite, such as dark skin, you would use the adjective oscura to say piel oscura.
Which one should you use?
While piel clara specifically describes a light or pale complexion, piel oscura is the term for dark skin.
Did you know?
- While 'clear skin' in English often implies a lack of acne or blemishes, using piel clara in Spanish refers strictly to color and can actually describe skin that is oily or imperfect.
- In some Latin American cultures, the term piel clara is linked to the concept of blanqueamiento, reflecting a complex historical social hierarchy based on skin shade.
- While clara means 'clear' or 'light', it is also used in Spanish to describe the egg white, known as la clara del huevo.
Examples in context
- Todos los días me cuido la piel para tener un cutis sano y sin imperfecciones.Every day, I take care of my skin to have clear and flawless skin.
- Mi hermano es de piel clara.My brother has light skin.
- Busco una base para piel clara.I am looking for a foundation for pale skin.
Example conversation
Elena and Javier are discussing their family members' appearances.
- Javier¿Tu madre tiene la piel clara?Does your mother have pale skin?
- ElenaSí, ella tiene la piel clara.Yes, she has pale skin.
- JavierEs muy parecida a ti.She is very similar to you.
- ElenaEs verdad, somos iguales.It's true, we are the same.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
