As the largest and most exposed organ on the body, the skin tends to get hit with a lot of damage. You may be thinking environmental damage like UV radiation or even pollution. However, most of the daily damage happens because of poor skincare habits. But, you cleanse and exfoliate. And you even bought an expensive moisturizer. So, why isn’t your skin picture perfect yet? Well, it’s most likely due to daily, seemingly harmless things that are slowly damaging your skin. If you want to know what you’re doing wrong, look no further–read our list of bad skincare habits, below!
Bad Skincare Habits:
Overdoing it!
One of the biggest ways you can make your skin look better is to stop overdoing it. Over-cleansing, over-exfoliating, and over-treating problematic areas can cause more harm than good. That’s not to say you shouldn’t wash your face nightly, but over-cleansing and exfoliating strips away your skin’s natural oils. Instead, use an oil-based cleanser and an exfoliator brush. And the same concept applies to moisturizers, serums, and creams. Too much will clog your pores and cause acne and blackheads. Make sure to start with a small amount, dabbing gently into the skin. Add more as needed. Remember: a little bit goes a long way. These tips will keep your skin clean, healthy, and balanced.
The Basic Tenants Of Healthy Skin:
- Drink Plenty Of Water!
- Exercise Daily
- Eat A Healthy, Balanced Diet
- Get Your Moles Checked Yearly
- Wash Your Face Every Night!
Eat Well For Beautiful Skin
You already know you should be eating lots of leafy greens and other veggies each day. But, did you know that your diet also affects your skin? When you eat too much sugar, salt, booze, and caffeine your skin looks duller and works less efficiently to turn over new skin cells. In addition, salt, caffeine, and alcohol are dehydrating to your body and your skin. And it shows. Not to mention, sugary foods break down collagen and elastin, which causes much more wrinkles and fine lines. These are all safe in moderation. If you must satiate that sweet tooth, opt for zinc-rich foods like blackberries and dark chocolate. In terms of alcohol, you can choose an antioxidant rich red wine. And you could also switch out your cup of joe for some green tea chock full of nutrients and antioxidants.
Healthy Skin Tips:
- Stop popping those pimples – this can lead to early discoloration and wrinkles. Instead, find a salicylic treatment and leave it on overnight.
- Smoking – you already know all of the dangers of smoking, but here’s another: smoking breaks down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and saggy skin. Quit already!
- Wash your pillow cases once a week – this stops bacteria from congregating in your pores. Also, opt for satin, silk, or Egyptian cotton sheets for softer and soothed skin. And use a gentle detergent to reduce skin inflammation.
- Get enough sleep – if you get less than 7 hours of sleep, you may start noticing duller skin and more and more fine lines. And turn off the TV late at night, as the bright screen can mess up your melatonin, causing your skin cells to work less efficiently. Again, causing wrinkles and dullness over time.
- Cool it down – in the cold of winter, there is nothing better than a hot shower. However, that heat is hurting your skin. Bring it down a few degrees to dodge early wrinkles and inflamed skin.
Start Protecting Your Skin Yesterday
We know, we know – a golden glow makes you look radiant, young, and healthy. But, the leading cause of wrinkles, discoloration, and other aging signs is sun exposure and damage. In fact, 90% of wrinkles are due to unprotected sun exposure. Basically, we can’t emphasize enough how important it is to protect your skin against UV radiation. Make sure to wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more every day. Even on a cloudy day, make sure your skin is covered. And also make sure you’re getting all of your skin. There’s currently an epidemic of skin cancer on the ears, hairline, and jawline. So, make sure to slather it on from your face all the way to your chest for the most protection. And if you must have a golden glow, opt for a spray tan or an over the counter darkening lotion.
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