You’ve probably resolved to lose weight, get in shape and stop procrastinating – why not give a nod to healthy skin by avoiding these 6 skin care sins too?
- Poor Nutrition. As the body’s largest organ, your skin reflects your diet with unhealthy eating habits resulting in unhealthy skin. Load up on fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats, foods that pack nutritional power. Steer away from sodas, sugary treats and fast food. Devoid of nutrition, they also add unnecessary calories. After a season of overconsumption, our bodies will appreciate it.
- Going To Bed With Make-up On. Your mother told you to wash before bed for good reason. Make-up can clog pores leading to breakouts and blemishes. The odd night here and there isn’t going to do significant damage, but try to cleanse with a gentle cleanser before retiring. Try La Roche Posay Physiological Cleansing Gel or M2 Exfoliating Cleanser with mandelic and malic acids for oilier skin types.
- Harsh Cleansers and Treatment. In addition to stripping away protective oils, overly harsh cleansers can break down your skin’s natural protective barrier paving the way for dry, irritated and red skin.
- Hot Water. Like harsh cleansers, overly hot water can strip away natural oils, leaving skin feeling tight and dry. Combine the two and you have a recipe for very unhappy skin. Switch to lukewarm water instead.
- Skimping on Your Sunscreen. If you don’t know it already, I’ll repeat it here. Nothing ages skin more than unprotected exposure to UV rays. Find a well formulated UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen and use it every day year round. Your skin will thank you in years to come. Choose from extensive selection of Anthelios sunscreens or shop our sunscreen store. Oh, and skip the tanning beds, okay?
- Smoking. If you smoke, try to quit – not only for your skin, but for your health in general. In addition to contributing to the development of fine lines and wrinkles, smoking releases free radicals that damage skin, making it age prematurely and look unhealthy.
To great skin in 2011 and beyond!
