The road to having a great looking skin starts with treating it right. Unfortunately, some of the things you do or use may contribute to skin damage over time (without fully realizing it). These may include your skin care products, lifestyle, vices, and diet.
Here are some of the habits that can compromise the look and quality of your skin:
You don’t wash your face before sleeping
While the urge to sleep may be strong enough to skip washing your face before bed, the effects of doing so are not worth it. It is likely for your complexion to suffer, as oil and dirt build up can result in breakouts, inflammation, and uneven skin texture. The same is also true for going to bed with your makeup on.
It is best to kick this habit and make sure to use essential skin care products like a mild cleanser and moisturizer before dozing off. And if you’re lazy or tired, using some facial wipes may do the trick, but don’t make it a habit.
You eat too much sugar (and less fruits and vegetables)
Consuming too much sugar, according to some studies, can accelerate the aging process. This is mainly the case for refined sugar or the kind that is commonly used in soda, candies, and other processed and prepackaged foods. This can cause a spike of insulin in the body, contributing to inflammation, health issues, and skin problems.
Cut back on sugar and other processed foods, and load up more on fruits and vegetables. Doing so will not only benefit your skin but also help you maintain a healthy weight.
You pop your pimples
It is only natural that the moment you see pimples, you want it gone immediately. Popping, however, is not the right solution, as it can only result in infection and scars. Keep in mind that picking your skin may only push the bacteria deeper into pores and lead to more breakouts.
A much better approach is using a product with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Just be sure to avoid those that contain high concentrations of the said ingredients, as this can lead to irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin. You can also talk to a dermatologist about other medications and treatments for acne.
You smoke
Cigarettes contain nicotine that can reduce blood flow to your skin, which can then cause premature aging. They also contain other chemicals that can damage the two proteins (collagen and elastin) that give your skin elasticity and firmness. This is why years of smoking can make your skin dull, thin, wrinkled, and aging. It can also slow down the healing of your skin, bones, and other body tissues.
Kicking this habit isn’t easy, but it can benefit your skin and overall health, reducing your risk of diseases. You can get the help of a doctor when quitting or check out these tips from SmokeFree.gov.
You don’t use sunscreen
Too much exposure to sun without protection can lead to premature aging and increase your risk of skin cancers. You should also know that the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin even when it is cloudy or cold outside.
Be sure to slather on sunscreen to keep your skin protected. It is also best to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Don’t forget to apply the product on your face, hairline, under the chin, and your neck.
Make it a habit of taking care of your skin better by eating the right foods, using the right skin care products, and giving up bad habits.