10 Habits that Completely Changed My Skin

Is it just me, or are today’s youth completely skipping their awkward stages? What happened to suffering for years with bad haircuts, braces, pimpled skin, and yearbook photos that will haunt you for years to come?

The simple answer is, education. There are so many more resources available to them—YouTube is flooded with makeup tutorials; beauty blogs are constantly educating men and women on the newest skincare tips and tricks (wink wink); and celebrities are sharing their best-kept beauty secrets. All I had was a bottle of baby oil to completely fry my skin tan in the sun and clearance makeup from the drugstore, yikes.

I was never told that tanning would ruin my skin or that moisturizing doesn’t actually cause breakouts. Water was never forced down my throat; and I never worried about washing my pillow cases. There is so much I wish I knew growing up about the health of my skin. I’ve realize that there is a lot of damage already done, that can’t be reversed, thanks tanning bed! But there are also things that can be done to prevent future skin damage and improve the health of my skin.

 

Here are 10 skin care habits I have adopted over the past year that have completely changed my skin for the better.

1. Moisturize. I’m sure this beauty tip is nothing new to to you. Over the years many bloggers and celebrities have swore by moisturizing multiple times a day to uphold their beautiful skin. Well, you’re about to hear it again! Many people don’t moisturize because they think it will cause breakouts—which is quite the opposite. When your skin is dry it overproduces oil trying to make up for the lack of moisture. Which in turn, causes more breakouts. Remember that not all moisturizers are made equal. Find one that works for your skin type.

2. Keep your surroundings clean. When is the last time you washed your pillow case? What about your makeup brushes? Should I even bring up your cellphone? Bacteria grows on surfaces very quickly. These germs and bacteria case easily be transferred to your skin causing infection, irritation, breakouts, and even serious illness. Clean your makeup brushes every day if you can, wash your pillow at least once a week, and wipe down your phone after every phone call. And STOP touching your face!

3. Cut the chemicals. Did you know that it only takes 20 seconds for chemicals to enter your bloodstream after being applied to your skin? Start looking at the skin care products and learning more about their ingredients. Introduce more natural products into your routine and your skin will look a lot more youthful and radiant!

4. Indulge in moderation. Again, another tip you have probably heard over and over again, but it’s so true! Have you ever noticed breakouts after a weekend of binge eating pizza and Pringles? Your skin is a reflection of what you put inside of your body. Sticking to a healthy diet, with indulging in moderation, will dramatically clear up your skin in no time. So the next time you want to go through the McDonald’s drive-though, you might as well order some extra clogged pores with a side of huge blemishes to go with that cheeseburger…just sayin’.

5. Use SPF. One of those things I wish I knew when I was younger. We all need vitamin D and sunshine to stay happy and healthy—but like anything, you need to do so in moderation. And when you are in the sun you should be wearing SPF, even in the winter months. My favorite way to incorporate sun protection into my beauty routine is using a BB cream/foundation that has SPF in it. You can also mix SPF with your favorite foundation.

6. Exfoliate! Getting rid of the dirty, oils and grime that tend to layer on your skin, filling your pores, will help keep your skin fresher. You can create your own exfoliating masks using baking soda and orange juice – the baking soda helps draw out impurities and the orange juice will infuse your skin with vitamin C, a known skin protector, or for a real facial treat consider getting a microdermabrasion peel.

7. Detox. The art of detoxing can take many forms—baths, teas, juices, food, and more. Personally, I love them all. Any way that you can rid your body of impurities and toxins will do wonders for your appearance. Not only will you see an improvement in your skin but your overall health as well.

8. Drink water. In addition to other forms of detox, drinking water is a great way to rid the body of chemicals and toxins. Your skin will also look more plump, moisturized, and youthful. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses a water a day—and more if you are working out.

9. Stop being afraid of oils. This goes along with my moisturizing tip. Certain essential oils are wonderful for your skin! They can provide anti-aging benefits as well as moisturizing benefits. Some of my favorites are Frankincense, Tea Tree, Coconut Oil, and Lavender.

10. Take precautions for exercise. Rule #1: Do not exercise with makeup on. Rule #2: Always shower as soon as you can after completing your workout. The mixture of makeup and sweat are horrible for your skin.

11. Learn to relax. Easier said than done, right? With kids, jobs, finances, there is a lot to not be relaxed about. But if you don’t learn to take a chill pill, your skin is going to pay the price.

12. Increase your antioxidants.  Eating more fresh fruit and berries, or adding supplements to your diet with antioxidants will help your body fight the free radicals that are harming your skin.

13. Eat more collagen!  All those winter bone soups are helping your face come summer time! As the sun and elements do damage on your skin, the collagen helps your skin bounce back and remain elastic. Collagen can be found in bone broth, animal based gelatin products, as well as in many supplements.

 

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What are some of your favorite ways to keep your skin looking fresh and radiant?