Between the large amount of choices in skincare products and skin care myths, making well-informed decisions can be difficult. From facial exercises (which can make wrinkles deeper) to DIY masks, the beauty industry is just as trendy and gimmicky as any other. But the good news is that there are some tried and true ways to make sure you’re getting the best skin possible, along with some new research that is giving us even better insights into how to keep our skin happy and healthy. Here are the top picks for real-deal skincare do’s and don’ts.
Do: Beautify From the Inside
The funny thing about beauty is that it really does come from the inside. Even though you can slather on all the most expensive skin care products in the world, if you’re not taking care of it from the inside, there’s only so much good that creams and gels can do.
Salmon, blueberries, spinach, tomatoes, yogurt and sweet potatoes are all excellent sources of nutrients that your body and skin need. What it doesn’t need is excess sugar in the form of candy bars and soda. New studies show that adolescent acne has less to do with age and more to do with processed sugar than we thought, since so many countries without processed sugar also have such a high incidence of teenagers without acne.
Do: Hydrate Like Your Skin Depends on It
Getting your skin properly hydrated takes daily effort. Figuring out how to get more water into your body every day could mean the difference between fine lines and deep wrinkles one day, not to mention it can help you avoid an acne outbreak right now. Moisturizing every single day is a no-brainer, but if you live in a more arid climate or your skin is just naturally dry, consider an intensely moisturizing regimen multiple times per day.
Do: Wash Your Face the Right Way
Common face-washing mistakes include: not using makeup remover first, not exfoliating once a week, not washing your hands first and using dirty hand towels to dry your face. Dermatologists agree that everyone, whether they wear makeup or not, needs to wash the day off their face every night and wash old skin cells every morning. Be wary of overwashing, though. The only time you should wash your face more than twice is right after a sweaty workout.
Don’t: Make Cell Renewal Harder
Smoking and wearing makeup are two of the easiest ways to clog your pores and prevent cell turnover. This results in everything from wrinkles and acne to dull, rough skin. If you’re noticing wrinkles that feel premature or out of the blue, this is just another reason to quit smoking.
And then there’s makeup. We are all guilty of going to bed with our makeup on, but if you know you’re going to have a long day (or night), give your skin a chance to breathe. Forego the powder and foundation and opt for just concealer and eye makeup. Or give your skin a breather the next day and skip makeup altogether. Giving your skin a day off from being smothered by foundation, powder, highlighter and other products that cover your skin is a simple and easy way to keep major skin issues at bay.
Sophia
