Call it wishful thinking, but I thought once high school was over all of my skin problems would disappear and, man was I wrong. I’m no esthetician, however I think it’s safe to say caring for your skin and its condition is an endless responsibility. In no way does it need to be treated like a chore! Developing what products and practices work for you can be enjoyable.
As someone who has struggled with acne for years, tried the advice of multiple dermatologists, and tested countless products, I may not ever achieve the clear glowy skin every woman wants. However, I’ve gained a few helpful tips around skincare habits.
Keep it Simple It’s easy to get wrapped up into wanting to try the newest products that your favorite bloggers are reviewing, but more often than not it isn’t worth it. Everyone has different skin types, so finding what works best for you is essential. Social media tends to promote aesthetically pleasing and trendy beauty brands. Do more research into what’s in those fun looking products. So many cleaners and moisturizers are filled with harsh chemicals that are stripping your skin and harming the environment. I’ve observed that when I put less on my skin and use products with less ingredients my face actually looks healthier. The same goes for acne treatments, don’t over do it.
Work from the Inside Out This may go without saying, but consuming an adequate amount of water daily makes all of the differnce. The same goes for reducing the amount of refined sugar you eat. Small improvements in the kitchen will leave your skin happier. Tune into yourbreakouts, sensitivity, and inflammation, because that could be the best indicator to what’s going on inside of you. Consider adding supplements to your routine and see if you notice changes. There has been a lot of research showing the connection between taking probiotics for gut health and the positive effects it has for the skin. These might be the most necessary steps to see a dewy complexion.
Don’t Forget the Little Things I tend to have a lot of habits like twisting my earrings or playing with my eyelashes when I’m in the middle of a lecture or zoning out, but I have to remind myself to keep my hands away from my face. Putting your dirty fingers on your face adds so much extra dirt, oil, and bacteria that your skin doesn’t need. Another obvious step to achieving clear skin is taking off all of your makeup before bed. While this seems like a no brainer, it’s something we’re all guilty of doing once or twice out of pure laziness. After a long night out on the weekend it seems like a burden to wash your face, but if you can drunk text your ex, you can at least wipe off your makeup and wake up with only one regret in the morning rather than two. While we are on the topic of sleeping, don’t neglect washing your pillow cases. A lot of built up oil from your hair and excess makeup clings to the fabric. This should be done at least once a week if not more depending on your skin type. Silk fabric is also recommended since they do not absorb oils like cotton sheets do.
To further develop your everyday routine consider the small things that will make a bigger difference in your complexion. When picking out which new products to play with remember to not over treat your skin or simply buy things because of their packaging. As in any industry, avoid those marketing traps if you are in it for the results.While taking care of your skin may seem exhausting it will pay off in the long run.
Isabelle Vogell
Edited by Annie Stibora