The world of skincare is filled with a lot of misinformation and bizarre trends. From the blue-light mask fad to snake venom as an anti-aging ingredient, it can be tough to know what’s real. And because so many products are marketed as ways to achieve flawless skin, it’s easy to feel like there must be a secret tip or trick that others just know. But there really isn’t anything magical about keeping your skin moisturized, drinking water, and using sunscreen consistently. The secrets to great skin are actually much simpler than all these gimmicky trends would have you believe. Great skin is the result of habits, not one-off tricks or expensive products (although those can help!). So if you’re interested in creating healthy habits around skincare that will lead to glowing, confident skin… scroll on!
You’re using the wrong cleanser.
When you’re cleansing your face, you’re removing built-up oils and other impurities that can clog your pores and cause breakouts. But cleansers can vary in texture and ingredients, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for your skin type and needs. For example, if you have dry skin, you definitely want to avoid using a cleanser that is super heavy and will strip all of your natural oils. Instead, look for something that is gentle and designed for sensitive skin. If you have oily skin, you want to look for a cleanser that is designed to help control that type of skin and remove excess oil without overdrying and stripping your skin.
You’re not using sunscreen.
Sunscreen is the most important anti-aging product you can use. It’s the single best thing you can do to prevent wrinkles, dark spots, and other signs of aging. Even if you don’t see a difference right away, consistent sunscreen use will help prevent long-term damage. You need sunscreen in your 20s not just to prevent aging, but also because your skin is at high risk of developing skin cancer. Many people think they’re not at risk of sun damage or skin cancer because they’re younger, but that’s actually not the case. UV rays are damaging at any age. And while you might not see the effect right away, consistent sun damage can lead to things like wrinkles, dark spots, and even skin cancer.
You’re exfoliating too much.
Exfoliating is something you hear about a lot as an important skincare step. But it’s important to be selective about how often you do it and what types you choose. Exfoliating removes dead cells on the surface of the skin that can lead to dullness and uneven texture. It can help your makeup look smoother and last longer, and also help skincare products penetrate more deeply into your skin. Exfoliating too often, however, can lead to redness and irritation, especially if you’re using a scrub that is too harsh for your skin. Exfoliating once or twice a week is sufficient for most people, but if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to do it less frequently.
You’re over-trying hydrating products.
There are tons of amazing moisturizers on the market and they can be a wonderful addition to your skincare routine. But you don’t need to use one every day, or even every week. In fact, over-moisturizing can have a reverse effect and actually cause your skin to produce less natural oils. It’s best to stick with a daily moisturizer and use a hydrating product maybe once a week or when your skin feels a little drier than normal. And it’s important to remember that not every moisturizer is created equally. Some skincare products promise to plump and hydrate the skin, but don’t actually do much of anything. So it’s important to find a moisturizer that works for you, is affordable, and comes from a trusted brand.
You’re not drinking enough water.
This one might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people overlook it. If you want your skin to look youthful and glowy, drinking enough water is an essential step. It hydrates your skin, flushes toxins from your body, and helps keep your skin looking bright and smooth. The recommended daily amount of water is around eight cups or two liters, but that can change based on factors like your weight, age, and activity level. And if you’re wondering what kind of water you should drink, filtered is always better than bottled. Not only does it save the environment, but it’s also safer and more hygienic than bottled water. And make sure to add a splash of lemon or a few mint leaves to your water to make it more refreshing.
And finally, you’re not giving your skin time to rest.
Your skin doesn’t operate on a 24-hour cycle but it does have a cycle that changes throughout the year. Exposure to UV rays, stress, and other environmental factors can cause your skin to become dull and appear “dull” and “tired.” To combat this and keep your skin looking its best, it’s important to follow a consistent skincare routine and a few simple tips: Lastly, it’s important to remember that skincare takes time. It’s unrealistic to expect your skin to be perfectly smooth and glowy after one week of following a routine. Give it time to adjust to the products you’re using and for your skin to bounce back from any damage it might have sustained.
Conclusion
Great skin comes from consistent skincare practices that are tailored to your individual needs. And while there are a ton of amazing products and technologies out there, there isn’t a single secret that will give you flawless skin. The only way to achieve great skin is to follow a consistent skincare routine and avoid making these common mistakes.