How You Ruin Your Skin
We are in the age of information and innovation, y’all. Every year the surprising new gadgets and products that come out with the aim of taking our skincare glow-up to the next level are numerous. It is not surprising, however, that we can be easily bamboozled by promising claims only to find out that the results are found lacking or instead usher in consequences. Here are five things you may be doing that are ruining your complexion:
1 // Using products that are too potent
Even if your skin can handle the highest, most powerful form of vitamin c, that doesn’t mean you should use it. It definitely does not mean you should use it within a skincare routine containing potent retinols and a plethora of exfoliating acids. Take the time to find out what your skin needs and how you can achieve results with a balanced combination of actives. If you are using a retinol, try switching to a milder exfoliator like mandelic, azelaic, or lactic acid. Include soothing and reparative products in your routine that boost hydration like niacinamide, peptides, or ceramides.
2 // Not moisturizing your oily/combo skin
Every skin type needs hydration and protective moisture. That moisture may differ depending on your skin type; however, it should still exist in some form in your beauty routine. Many times, combo or oily skin is worsened (read more oily) when over compensating for a lack of moisture replenishment after a strong cleanser and treatment routine. Invest in a light but effective moisturizer that used actives like hyaluronic acid to promote deep skin hydration without the weight of oils.
3 // Under or over-cleansing skin
When I was a teenager, my go to skincare technique was to use the strongest cleanser I could find. I wanted my skin to be squeaky clean, literally. The problem with this is that it reduces the integrity of the skin moisture barrier and causes the skin to go into overdrive to protect itself. This means that your skin will be more sensitized, oily, and breakout prone. Go for a gentle cleanser or even just water in the mornings to gently cleanse your skin. For my friends who like to fall asleep in your make-up or with your sunscreen on your face, let me the 400th person to tell you, don’t do that! Sunscreen and make-up breakdown during sleep and will cause clogged pores and skin stress. Double cleanse your way to skin health!
4 // Sandblasting your skin
I was one of the long-time users of the, now defunct, Clarisonic brush. I would use it too often and with too much pressure to be beneficial. After ending the long love affair, my skin became smoother and softer without having to constantly repair the micro-scratches and irritation caused by my fervent scrubbing. Beware of tools that promise at home ease without the professional know-how of high intensity treatments like acid peels and microdermabrasion facials.
5 // Know thyself skincare enthusiast
If you are using the perfect skincare routine for dry skin but you have combination skin on the best days and an oil slick on the worst, your skin will not benefit and you will likely incur clogged pores for all of your hard work and invested dollars. Similarly, know how your skin behaves in different types of weather and how you can change your routine to accommodate vacation or Christmas in a wintry locale. Not sure you know what your skin wants? Visit your local dermatologist or esthetician to learn more about how to best care for your skin!
Anything not on this list that was wrecking your skin? Share the wealth so we can all get our glow-up!
