Every day we are bombarded by ads for various skincare products as well as advice from beauty gurus and social media influencers. Sometimes it’s hard to know what our skin really needs to be clear and healthy. This post will guide you through 14 healthy habits that can help you achieve and maintain healthy, clear skin.
1. Cleanse Your Face Twice Daily
Cleansing your face regularly removes dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities that can clog your pores. Washing your face twice daily is more effective for maintaining clear skin compared to washing once daily. However, over-cleansing can dry out your skin, so twice a day is the optimal balance.
Recommendation: Be sure to use a gentle cleanser that preserves your skin’s natural oils (especially if you have dry skin). Some great options include The Honest Company Calm on Foaming Cream Cleanser, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser with Hyaluronic acid (fragrance-free), CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser.
2. Moisturise and Hydrate
Moisturising is an often-underrated step in your beauty routine. It not only helps achieve a clear, dewy, flawless complexion but is also one of the simplest anti-aging practices you can adopt. Moisturisers help your skin stay plump and supple.
Additionally, staying hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water supports your skin’s health, making pores less visible, reducing imperfections, and achieving a more radiant appearance.
Recommendation: Try Isispharma Teen Derm Hydra, Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel with Hyaluronic acid for effective hydration.
3. Use Sunscreen Daily
Sunscreen is your best defence against the harmful effects of UV rays from sun overexposure. Too much sun can lead to skin discolouration, age spots, freckles, and even skin cancer. Sunscreen also helps prevent premature skin aging. Always use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, regardless of the weather.
Recommendation: consider using ISNtree Hyaluronic acid Watery Sun Gel, bondi sands SPF 50, Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer SPF 50 for broad-spectrum protection.
4. Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can clog your pores and make your skin look dull. Regular gentle exfoliation will leave your skin feeling smooth, looking clear, and appearing more vibrant. However, it’s important not to overdo it – once or twice a week is sufficient, as over exfoliation can lead to dryness and irritation.
Recommendation: Reviva Labs Gentle Exfoliating Fruit Enzyme Mask, The Honest Company Beauty Sleep Resurfacing Serum, Isispharma Glyco A Soft peeling are all excellent choices.
5. Monitor Expiration Dates on Products
Make it a monthly habit to check the expiration dates on all your skincare products. Using expired products may be harmful to your skin or make your skincare routine ineffective.
6. Don’t Pick at Your Skin
While it may be tempting to pick at a pimple, doing so can introduce bacteria from your hands to your skin, increasing the risk of infection or scarring. If you have a particularly painful pimple, see a dermatologist or esthetician for a professional, safe extraction to minimize the risk of infection or scarring.
7. Practice Good Makeup Hygiene
Makeup is a powerful tool for enhancing your natural beauty, but it’s essential to use it wisely to avoid skin issues and promote overall skin health.
- Start with a clean canvas; always cleanse before makeup.
- Choose non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic makeup products.
- Clean your makeup brushes regularly.
- Always remove makeup before bed.
- Give your skin a break; embrace makeup free days.
8. Get Your Beauty Sleep
Sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and appearance of your skin. During sleep, your body goes into repair mode, rejuvenating and replenishing skin cells. Lack of sleep can lead to dullness, puffiness, and dark circles under your eyes. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to wake up with a refreshed and glowing complexion.
9. Destress and Relax
Stress can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to breakouts, dullness, and premature aging. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is essential for maintaining clear and radiant skin. Engage in activities that help you relax and unwind. Such as meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature. Prioritising self-care and engaging in healthy habits and activities that bring you joy, and peace can positively impact your skin’s appearance.
10. Be Cautious with Ingredients in Your Hair Care Products
The ingredients in your hair care products can affect your skin. Whatever is in your hair has the ability to get on your face and neck, especially when you’re working out or sweating from daily activities. Avoid products with pore clogging ingredients like isopropyl myristate, coconut oil, sodium lauryl sulfate, particularly if you’re prone to breakouts.
11. Eat Foods that Support Clear, Healthy Skin
Your diet plays significant role in the health of your skin. Some foods or drinks that spike hormones, trigger acne. To avoid having breakouts, change your diet and incorporate skin-friendly foods:
- Low glycemic foods like legumes, fruits, and grains.
- Foods rich in vitamins A & E like carrots, eggs, broccoli, lettuce.
- Leafy vegetables.
- Herbs such as turmeric, garlic, cilantro, milk thistle.
- High-fiber foods like avocado, oats, lentils.
12. Cut Down on Sugar
Over consumption of sugary foods and drinks can negatively impact your skin and contribute to acne breakouts. To protect your skin, reduce your intake of high glycemic foods, limit processed carbs like white bread and baked goods, and cut back on sugary sodas and sweets.
13. Say No to Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol can both take a toll on your skin. Smoking narrows the blood vessels in your skin, reducing blood flow and oxygen supply to your skin. This leads to a dull complexion, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption can dehydrate your skin and cause inflammation. Reducing or eliminating these habits can greatly benefit your skin’s health.
14. Seek Professional Advice
While these healthy habits can greatly improve your skin’s health and appearance, it’s important to recognise that everyone’s skin is unique. If you have specific skin concerns or conditions, consider consulting a dermatologist or skincare specialist for personalised recommendations and treatments tailored to your skin’s unique needs.
In Conclusion
Achieving and maintaining clear, healthy skin requires consistent effort and a holistic approach. By adopting these healthy habits into your daily routine, you can nourish and protect your skin, helping it look and feel its best. Remember, taking care of your skin is an investment in your overall well-being.
