Save The Skin You Are In
Skin care is cumulative. The earlier proper skin care is started, the better the long-term results. Small changes such as using a daily cleanser and applying sunscreen will prove beneficial. The key is to create a positive skin care routine that becomes a habit. Below are 4 changes that will lead to big results.
Change #1: Create a morning and nighttime skin care ritual
Consistency is key. Creating a routine will ensure that skin care becomes a habit. The best results will not be after a couple of days or a few new products. The best results will come after consistent use of quality products and repeating the same steps day after day. Once a person starts seeing results, then the habit becomes easier.
Change #2: Don’t overcomplicate
When in doubt, have a good cleanser and moisturizer. There are hundreds of skin care products on the market. But skin care doesn’t need to be complicated. Serums and exfoliants and chemical peels all work, but this is not the only way to healthy skin. There are cleaners and moisturizers for all skin types: dry, oily, and combination skin. Oily skin is not an excuse to skip moisturizer or use harsh products. Skin produces sebum to help keep moisturized. Oily skin produces an excess of sebum. Trying to rid the skin of sebum will have the reverse effect; the skin will produce more oil. Individuals with oil-prone skin should look for lightweight and oil-free products. This can extend into makeup choices as well.
Change #3: Don’t sleep with makeup on
This is a big don’t. By the end of the day, makeup is not the only thing on the face. There are likely allergens and other microscopic bacteria that have been acquired from being in a work environment or out in public. Sleeping with makeup on can lead to clogged pores. This hinders the skin’s ability to repair. Sleeping with makeup on can quickly become a bad habit.
Change #4: Wear sunscreen
Sun damage is cumulative. Even when the sky is cloudy, the sun’s harmful rays still reach earth. Damage done one day cannot be undone the next. Finding ways to work SPF into daily skin care will be very beneficial both short- and long-term. There are countless moisturizers and makeup products with SPF built in. This is an easy way to ensure the skin on the face stays protected. When not wearing makeup, applying sunscreen during any outdoor activity is crucial, especially when tanning. Any exposed skin becomes a potential target for sun damage. Apply sunscreen everywhere.
Bonus tip: food affects skin
Skin health and nutrition are closely linked. Unhealthy eating habits can cause weight gain and damage to internal organs. These habits can also lead to premature aging of the skin. The skin acts as a barometer for what is going on internally. Foods high in healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins, micronutrients, and beta-carotene will leave the skin looking healthier.
Simple is best
Skin care doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple acts such as washing off makeup before bed and wearing sunscreen daily can lead to long-term positive results. The key is creating a skin care routine that can be stuck with. For more tips on forming a good skin care routine, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.
