Beauty makeover? Need one? You may not know it, but some bad habits you do daily, could be damaging your skin. Discover seven habits to dodge if you want healthier, happier skin! Read on to find out!
Smoking: Smoking can make your skin look older and contribute to wrinkles. It can also reduce the amount of oxygen in your skin, causing your skin to look dull and gray.
Smoking cigarettes is bad news for your skin. It can cause premature aging and wrinkles. This is because the toxins in smoke break down collagen and elastin fibers. Circulation of oxygen-rich blood and sweat gland activity also decreases. This leads to dry, dull skin. And it can make acne worse.
If you want to protect your skin, the best thing to do is quit smoking.
Drinking Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can cause dehydration, which can lead to dry skin and premature wrinkles.
It's OK to enjoy a glass of wine now and then, but going over the recommended amount can be detrimental to your skin. Excessive alcohol can lead to dehydration, causing dry skin and wrinkles. It can also cause redness, flushing, or broken capillaries on the face and neck. And too much drinking can break down collagen, leading to sagging and more wrinkles. Other effects include: redness, loss of skin tone, visible pores, and rosacea flare-ups.
To minimize damage to your skin, it's important to stay within the recommended daily limits for alcohol consumption: no more than two drinks per day if you're over 65, and even less if you're younger. When drinking, keep in mind what you're consuming, and make sure to drink plenty of water along with your alcoholic beverage. Also, alternate alcoholic drinks with non-alcoholic ones, such as sparkling water or a soft drink.
Not Wearing Sunscreen: Not wearing sunscreen can lead to sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging.
Sunscreen is not just for fun. It can protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays that can cause sunburn, cancer, and aging. If you're out for long or doing activities like swimming or running, sunscreen is a must. Choose one with broad spectrum protection and an SPF of 30 or higher.
Don't forget to reapply – especially if you are sweating or spending lots of time in the sun. Sunscreen won't block all the sun – cover up with clothing and find some shade too!
Not Washing Your Face: Not washing your face can lead to a buildup of dirt and oil, clogged pores, and acne.
Washing your face is a must-do in any skincare routine. Not washing can cause dirt and oil to build up, clogged pores, and acne. For healthy skin, you should cleanse with a gentle cleanser twice a day – morning and night – to remove dirt, makeup and dead skin.
Use lukewarm water to wash your face. Hot water takes away natural oils that keep skin hydrated. Don't use harsh exfoliators or brushes as they could irritate skin and make acne worse.
Moisturize after washing. Choose one according to your skin type for best results!
Not Getting Enough Sleep: Not getting enough sleep can cause your skin to look dull and tired, and can lead to dark circles under the eyes.
The National Sleep Foundation suggests that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep nightly, for optimal health. When you don't get enough sleep, your skin can become dull and unhealthy. Long-term lack of restful sleep can cause wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Dark circles, puffiness, and inflammation can come with not enough sleep. Not just feeling groggy and unproductive during the day, but your skin won't get important vitamins and minerals.
Regular undisturbed sleep is necessary if you want to avoid signs of aging and maintain healthy glowing skin.
Eating Too Much Sugar: Eating too much sugar can cause inflammation, which can lead to acne and other skin problems.
Too much sugar in your diet can have disastrous effects on your waistline and skin. Kick the sugary habit and benefit your complexion in many ways!
Inflammation caused by high-sugar intake can lead to redness, acne, and other skin problems. Simple carbs from sugary snacks cause blood sugar spikes and can increase your risk for diseases like diabetes. Plus, sugary diets are linked to psoriasis flare-ups, collagen damage, and wrinkles.
Fresh fruit contains natural sugars that are beneficial, but refined sugar should be avoided or eaten in moderation. Reducing sugar intake could make a huge difference in your complexion over time.
Popping Pimples: Popping pimples can cause scarring and can spread bacteria, leading to more breakouts.
Avoid popping pimples at all costs. It can cause inflammation, scarring, and even more breakouts from spreading bacteria. The pressure from popping causes the pore wall to rupture, damaging the healthy skin around it and leaving behind areas that may take years to heal. It can even cause infection by introducing harmful bacteria beneath the skin's surface.
The best way to tackle a breakout is to resist the urge to pop. Instead, use products designed for acne-prone skin. A gentle routine with cleansers and moisturizers can help reduce sebum and provide anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory action. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide which fight acne. If breakouts are severe or persistent, consider consulting a dermatologist for advice on treatment plans suitable for your skin type.
Conclusion
Never regret your quest for healthy, radiant skin. Evade habits that can harm your skin and focus on better protection and care. Be aware of the items you employ, and get advice from your healthcare expert. They are there to help!
Dedicating time to self-care will be beneficial for your skin health.
