Modern life is rough on our skin. Air pollution, makeup, the weather, alcohol and even the water in your shower can all be hard on skin, leaving it dry, tired and sensitive. There are some easy changes you make though to be a little kinder to your skin.
- Ditch the natural scrubs. It might seem that a natural product is better, but exfoliants with natural ingredients like apricot seeds or crushed shells to buff off dead skin are actually very rough on your face. The pieces in these scrubs tug at the face, causing micro-tears. Instead, a chemical exfoliant or one with small, smooth dissolvable beads is much gentler.
- Turn down the shower. A hot shower might feel lovely, but it’s actually very drying for the skin. Instead, turn the shower down to a lukewarm temperature, and try not to stay in there for longer than ten minutes. Too long, and you’ll come out with dehydrated skin. If you live in a hard water area, consider adding a water softening solution, as hard water can aggravate sensitive skin. Find the right system at watersoftener-reviews.co.uk.
- Don’t skip your eye test. Squinting or frowning at things you can’t really see is one of the biggest causes of fine lines around the eyes. Make sure you get your eyes tested regularly to catch any issues.
- Style your hair before you wash your face. It seems the sensible way round to wash your face first before you start to get ready, and then to style your hair. Actually, if you use any hair products, those products will be getting onto your skin around the hairline, which if left, could clog pores and contribute to blemishes. Instead, use any heat protectors or styling products first, then wash your face to clean away any residue.
- Sleep on your back. During the night, your pillow can snag at your skin if you sleep on your side or your front, and those pillow lines can become permanent. Sleeping on your front can also cause the skin to lose elasticity as gravity causes fluid to pool. Instead, try and train yourself to sleep on your back. A horseshoe shaped travel pillow behind your head, or a pillow under your knees can help nudge you into the right position. Silk or satin pillowcases are also kinder to skin, so swap out cotton ones while you’re changing your sleeping habits.
- Don’t overuse product. It can be tempting to slather on a load of cleanser and think that will make your skin cleaner. Actually, too much product can strip your skin of natural oils, leaving it feeling dry and tight. Use a small amount, and make sure you wash it all off properly to avoid left behind cleansers clogging your skin.
- Use an SPF. We all know now we should be using an SPF everyday to protect it from UV rays. Make sure you’re getting all your exposed skin though, not just your face. If you have short hair, or wear it tied back, don’t forget your ears. Apply it your hands too to avoid sun damage that can make hands look old.
