You hear much less about the habits that are ruining your skin than about the good things you should do for it. It’s true that some things you do on a regular basis might be doing more harm than good. And you might not even realize the problem. Well, you aren’t alone, so don’t feel bad. In the end, all we want is glowing, youthful and blemish-free skin, so understanding the habits that are ruining your skin is a great way to get there.
You probably know really well how awful you feel if you forgo a meal. I’m talking lethargic, cranky and weak. We’ve all been there, but did you know that skipping meals is one of the habits that are ruining your skin. It’s true. When you don’t get enough to eat, your skin isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to stay healthy, which can leave you with dry skin as well as early signs of aging. So, eat up!
I am totally guilty of this! I love to buy face creams in cute little jars. So many manufacturers sell them too. However, experts say that the antioxidants in your anti-aging products break down a little bit each time you open the jar and the cream is exposed to the light. The solution? Choose products in tubes whenever possible.
Now, granted you do want to wear your shades in the sun to protect your eyes from sun damage and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes, However don’t just slap them on all the time without cleaning them. With time, bacteria builds up on your sunglasses, which transfers to your face wherever they rest on your skin. Swipe them with an antibacterial wipe a few times each week to take care of the problem.
Or any kind of alcohol, for that matter. You don’t have to skip your nightly glass of red or your weekend cocktail with the girls, but try not to overdo it. That’s because booze really dries out your skin, leaving it prone to the signs of aging as well as the discomfort that comes with tight dry skin. Opt for water as much as possible.
Smoking is really bad for you for a myriad of reasons. But, it can really do a number on your skin. When you smoke, you activate the same muscle groups over and over, which speeds the development of fine lines and wrinkles. At the same time, the chemicals in cigarettes can weaken the elasticity of your skin, further contributing to the issue. Talk to your doctor if you need help quitting.
Sure, that’s what they are there for, but if you go overboard, your skin might suffer for it. If you have a reaction to a certain product and you’ve just swiped it all over your face, you are in trouble. Experts suggest trying anything new on a small patch of skin on the inside of your wrist. That way you know if there’s an issue (and if there is, you can cover it up).
You absolutely don’t have to give up chat sessions with all your friends and family. However, like your sunglasses, your cell phone tends to collect germs and bacteria, which are then transferred to your face when you make a call. Wipe your phone down regularly and use the speaker phone when you can. The skin along your jaw line will thank you.
What’s your worst skin habit? I guess mine is not washing my glasses and cell phone often enough. I hope this list spurs you to better skincare. Do you have any other habits that are bad for your skin to add to this list? Please share.