Getting glowing and youthful-looking skin may seem like an impossibility to some. However, this may be the case because of some bad skincare habits you may have. Here are 10 of the most common habits to start avoiding right now.
Smoking & Alcohol
First off, your skin hates smoking and alcohol. Both can cause your skin to lose moisture and elasticity, and give you wrinkles and lines years before their time. Because of this, cutting down, or cutting the habits out of your life completely can be a game-changer for your skin.
Looking up how to get a vape prescription, for instance, can instantly help you cut down on smoking, and having an “alcohol schedule” of sorts can help limit when and how much alcohol you drink on a daily and weekly basis.
Hot Showers/Baths
Another small thing that you may be doing every day that is stopping your skin from looking its best, is showering or bathing with very hot water. The biggest issue with this is that the hot water strips your skin of the natural oils and moisture your skin needs.
Instead, shower or bath in lukewarm to warmish water. If you need to shower in very hot water because it is cold, avoid getting water on your face, and then wash your face with lukewarm water after the face.
Not Letting Your Skin Breathe
While putting on foundation and makeup every day is a must for some, it isn’t the best for your skin. One of the best and easiest things you can do for your skin is to simply let it breathe.
If you do need to or want to wear makeup, be sure to clean it properly at the end of the day and not sleep with makeup on.
Forgetting to Exfoliate
As we age, the rate at which new skin cells come to the surface slows down, meaning you need to exfoliate to help speed up the process. It helps to clear away old skin cells and opens up your pores.
However, it is important to remember that you shouldn’t exfoliate every day, as excessive exfoliation can remove your skin’s oils and moisture. Instead, exfoliate once or twice a week, or when needed, such as when you break out.
Inadequate Sun Protection
This is a quick and easy one, but it is vital to put sunscreen on every day, no matter the weather. UV rays from the sun can damage and age your skin, and quickly applying a layer of sunscreen before heading out the door can make a world of difference.
Not Enough Water
Water is another essential aspect of healthy skin. It gives your skin the moisture it needs to protect itself and prevent wrinkles, dark marks, etc. An easy way to drink enough water is to always have a reusable water bottle with you and to drink as much as you need every day.
Processed Foods
Processed foods are another major culprit when it comes to ageing your skin. The excess sugar, fats, and refined carbohydrates don’t help your skin and, in some instances, can make it worse. For instance, many people experience breakouts a day or two after eating a fast-food hamburger.
Instead, try to avoid processed foods and stick to healthier options. Don’t confuse this with needing to be on a super-strict, healthy diet; rather, choose healthy options. There are also plenty of fruits and vegetables that can help give the skin that glow you are looking for.
The Wrong Skincare Products
Another all-too-common mistake is using the wrong skincare products. While this sounds silly, it is an easy mistake to make. Many people may be using a moisturizer that is too strong, which causes outbreaks because their skin is already too oily, but they just don’t know it.
Instead, visit a skincare professional and have your skin analyzed correctly. This will give you a full picture of the issues you have, and more importantly, tell you which products you should use and which to avoid.
Touching Your Face Too Much
We touch our faces far more than we think, and this could easily be one of the reasons your skin isn’t looking or feeling its best. Our hands get very dirty, very quickly, especially when we are out and about at work, the mall, or another public space.
While it is very difficult to avoid touching our faces completely, the best solution is to get into the habit of washing your hands regularly to ensure that when you do touch your face, your hands are clean, or at least clean enough.
Too Much Stress
Stress can be another hindrance when it comes to getting and maintaining healthy-looking skin. Stress raises your cortisol levels, which can affect multiple aspects of your mind and body, including your skin.
Stress also has secondary problems, as it can lead to eating unhealthy food, drinking, etc, all of which are things we have already established as being problematic for your skin. Therefore, find some healthy ways to deal with stress; your skin will thank you.
