Ever wondered why your skin was too oily, too dry, too acne? Well, granted, all of us are genetically predisposed to have a certain skin type, some seemingly more desirable than the rest... but that doesn't mean that you can't be the change. Want to know how? Read on for 11 simple tips that changed my life, and can work wonders for yours!
1. Let's start simple! Wash your face with soap every night right before bed. (It's easiest to do so in the shower). Make sure you find the best face wash for you! I use a gentle wash - Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser -because my skin is so sensitive. Remember, no one knows your skin better than you do. However, if you do have questions, always feel free to seek a dermatologist's advice. Moreover, don't be afraid to experiment. If you feel that you may have sensitive skin, work your way up from the more gentle cleansers in order to avoid incurring a negative reaction.
2. Drink LOTS OF WATER! This is so, so important. I went from drinking one small glass of water a day (with oily skin), to a gallon (not a pimple in sight). You don't have to go this far, but make sure you drink at least the recommended 8 cups per day (this may vary according to gender, weight, and daily athletic activity, but there are plenty of online calculators which will help you figure out the best option for you). Remember, more is better!
3. Detox teas. Similarly to water, detox teas will flush toxins from your body as well as clean out your pores. I like to use a simple green tea, as well as the Mate Factor's "Detox Medley with Ginger and Turmeric," both of which I drink daily.
4. Breathe. Sounds silly right? Well, listen. When you're stressed out, you're more likely to break out. Breathing deeply not only works to clear your skin, but a simple daily 5-minute meditation can work wonders for both your body and your mind.
5. On the same note, let your skin breathe! Working out and sweating, or simply spending more time outside and exposing your skin to fresh air, will allow you to have fresher, clearer skin in no time!
6. Make sure you're washing your face the "right way." What do I mean by this? Two things - one, take off your makeup first! This plays a major role in how clean your skin will get. Two, make sure you wash your face with cold water - the colder the better. While hot water can be harmful to your skin, ice water will actually work to shrink your pores.
7. Steam your face once a week if necessary. Don't over-steam because it can actually have a negative affect. If you're starting to see acne, steaming your face over essential oils is an easy, relaxing way to clear your pores.
8. Try not to touch your face too much. If you have sensitive skin like me, over-touching your face is a fast-track to breakouts. Try to avoid contact with oils (like the ones on your fingers) as much as possible.
9. Don't overuse acne products. Ever had that pimple that just wouldn't go away? I totally get it... you apply product day after day until you've finally conquered that bugger, but don't overdo it. Sometimes pimples will come back if you continue to apply cream after they are mostly gone, so make sure you are watching the changes in your skin carefully. Take a break for a few days if you start to see your skin becoming irritated.
10. Witch hazel. Never heard of it? That's totally okay. But you're about to start seeing a lot more of it. This simple liquid solution has worked wonders for my skin, and it can easily do the same for yours. Simply apply (I use a cotton ball) this solution to your entire face each night before bed, and you will ensure a thorough cleansing of your pores.
11. Eat healthy. This goes with drinking a lot of water, and honestly, just about everything else you just read. Whatever you are doing for your skin is also benefitting the rest of your body, and even your mind! While eating a lot of junk food can contribute to bad skin, eating healthy can make all the difference on the inside and out!
I hope this article helped you get a better idea of how to incorporate skin-care into your daily life! And of course, if any of you have questions, as always, please feel free to reach out!(:
