Healthy skincare habits can lead to a clearer complexion, reduced signs of ageing, and increased confidence. Many of us create skincare routines to get beautiful, glowing skin, but some habits can damage your complexion even if you have a great skincare routine. Let’s look at skincare habits that could damage your complexion.

Skincare habits that damage your skin

Popping pimples

It can be tempting to pop pimples, but it can cause irritation, swelling, infection, skin redness, and scarring. A scar formed by popping pimples can remain for a long time. So, give your skin time to heal naturally and use products that promote healing.

Eating the wrong foods

Some foods can trigger breakouts in chronic skin conditions such as rosacea (spicy foods, alcohol, tomatoes, chocolate, etc.), eczema (dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, fish, etc.), and acne (sugary drinks, processed food, white bread, etc.) symptoms. You can consult a dermatologist to review the foods you consume and track any changes or increases in your symptoms.

Not drinking enough water.

Water hydrates the skin, removes toxins, improves elasticity, and can help regulate oil production, leading to a brighter and healthier complexion. Conversely, dehydration can cause the body to retain moisture for other crucial functions, leaving the skin dry. Ensure you drink adequate amounts of water to help reduce skin dryness.

Forgetting to remove makeup.

Cleansing your face is a crucial step in your skincare routine. Regularly falling asleep with makeup on due to tiredness or fatigue can lead to oil build-up and dead skin cells, clogging pores and fostering bacteria. Prioritise cleaning your face, especially if you are wearing makeup, even if you are tired.  

Not using sunscreen.

Sun exposure can cause the skin to age prematurely, lead to sunburn, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Some people only apply sunscreen on beach days or while outdoors. Since UV rays can still reach the skin even on cloudy days, using a broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen daily is essential.

Not cleaning makeup brushes or sponges.

Makeup sponges and brushes absorb and retain makeup and moisture, harbouring bacteria and mould. Regular cleaning can help prevent infections and breakouts. Use a gentle shampoo or cleanser with lukewarm water to massage brush bristles until clean. For sponges, use an antibacterial soap. Leave your brushes and sponges to air-dry thoroughly before using.

Choosing the wrong exfoliant or not exfoliating.

Exfoliating can help unclog pores, remove dead skin cells, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and prevent breakouts. Some people associate exfoliation with harsh scrubs that can damage the skin, so they either use an abrasive product or don’t exfoliate. However, there are gentle exfoliants you can use a few times a week to improve skin cell turnover and keep pores clear.

Remember, a dermatologist can assess your skin and provide guidance on improving your skincare routine, so you’ll look and feel great. Use FindYello.com to search for dermatologists, stores, pharmacies, and related businesses that offer the products or services you need to transform your beauty regimen.

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Sources: US Dermatology Partners, Vogue, Healthline, WebMD, NCBI, Hopkins Medicine, and Skin Elite.