There many other things that affect how your skin looks and feels, it's not just what you physically apply topically that is important.
I thought today I'd share with you some of the main factors that contribute towards healthy skin.
- Dehydration/not drinking enough water
This is one of the main things that makes you look older, tired, etc. If you are dehydrated your skin is likely to have a 'tight' feeling, look dull, and you can often suffer with headaches. If you are dehydrated you can still suffer with spots, people often confuse dehydrated skin with dry skin. For more info on dehydration & dry skin, read this post here. The best thing to do is drink plenty of water, and also use products containing hyaluronic acid & glycerin. I'm guilty of not drinking enough water, I find carrying a bottle around with me encourages me to drink more.
- Lack of Sleep
This really shows, your skin regenerates the most whilst you sleep, so of course, if you don't get much sleep it's unable to regenerate. Get a good nights' sleep and it'll do your skin good.
- Alcohol
Drinking increases redness in the skin, dehydrates it, and just generally makes it look bad. Of course we all enjoy the odd drink now and then, just don't overdo it.
- Sugar/Salt/Junk food
We all like take aways, eating out, and crave chocolate and sweet things from time to time. Just try to think about what you're putting in your body, as well as what you put on it. Too much salt can make your face & eyes puffy, too much sugar can give you spots. Your skin is a great reflection of what's going on inside your body.
- Environment/Weather
If you work outside, or are in and out a lot, it can really affect your skin. The changes from warm to cold, etc, mean that you should change your skincare products accordingly, with the seasons. (For example: it's best to use a different moisturiser in the Winter, than you do in the Summer.) If you work in an office with air con on all the time, try and get some fresh air and actual oxygen to your skin.
- Products
This is one of the most important ones. Don't strip your skin with foaming cleansers, or aggravate it with a harsh cleansing brush, or starve it of moisture by using oil free products when you probably need oil. Have a proper, consistent routine, don't be lazy. Make an effort and your skin will thank you for it. As I've said before, make time for your skincare routine, just as you do (or should do) for brushing your teeth or having a shower.
