As it is the largest organ of the human body, our skin is incredibly important. When you were a baby, your mom probably used special soaps and lotions (unless you came after a bunch of siblings, then she probably used whatever she had left and hoped for the best). As you became an adolescent, you probably started caring about how to reduce acne. Most people have a daily routine that involves some sort of washing or moisturizing, but there is a lot more to consider when talking about skin care.
1. Don't use harsh cleansers.
So many products that kill bacteria on your skin have added chemicals that destroy your skin and cause dryness and irritation. Changing the pH of your skin with a harsh cleanser can lead to more acne. If you use an exfoliant, try not to use it every day. Over-exfoliating can actually cause more flaking. Try a brand like Aveeno or Origins instead.
2. Wear sunscreen.
I'm as pale as can be and couldn't get a tan even if I tried. For me, sunscreen makes sense if I don't want to come from the beach looking like a lobster. However, even if you do tan, some sort of SPF is so important. Otherwise, you are opening yourself up to wrinkly skin and a potential for skin cancer. The tan may look good now, but imagine having to get chunks of your skin removed or looking like leather as you age. Tan more gradually or maybe even spray tan if that is your thing (even putting that on your skin is healthier than no sun protection).
3. Drink lots of water.
Drinking water can help clear skin and keep it hydrated. If you have bad eating or drinking habits, the water can help balance out some of the bad stuff you are putting into your body where your skin is concerned.
4. Avoid excess sugar or caffeine.
If you drink coffee and put sugar in it, I'm sorry. Sugar and caffeine can cause breakouts and make skin look tired and dry. The good news is that lots of water can help dilute these and their negative effects.
5. Don't sleep in your makeup.
Most girls are guilty of doing this at least every once and a while. I do it way more often than I should. Sometimes I even try to get away with wearing the same makeup the next morning (thanks to Urban Decay's setting spray). Try keeping some cleansing wipes by your bed or near your toothbrush. Taking off your makeup at the end of the day feels so good and will reduce bacteria that would have started to grow from the makeup. Plus, you're giving your skin a breather.
6. Go to the dermatologist.
The dermatologist can tell you so much about how to take care of your skin and skin type. They can help you get rid of acne and check your skin for anything that seems suspect.
7. Use some natural alternatives.
While companies try to sell you harsh skin care products, you have many natural items at your disposal in your own house. Some of these things include raw honey, sea salt, avocado, and coconut oil. Research some ingredients and find face mask recipes like these for your skin type.
Nourishing and protecting your skin will pay off when it comes to health and your overall appearance. You may hate having to spend time lathering on the sunscreen, but you'll love looking ten years younger than everyone else at the reunion.
