Skincare Do's and Don'ts

So we all know there are skin do’s and don’ts, but most of the time there is a disagreement about what they are. Elle magazine had a really interesting article on skincare do’s and don’ts., which I found really interesting.

Water

Don’t take too many showers. Although it can by hydrating, water can have a drying effect on your epidermis (or skin). To ensure you keep you skin looking great, make sure you moisturize after showering. I guess no more long hot showers for me.

Do drink plenty of water. Drinking 64 ounces of water daily is essential for a healthy complexion as it helps flush out toxins and keeps your insides running smoothly.

Moisturizers

Don’t go the top with rich moisturizers as heavy creams can create a barrier preventing your skin from absorbing the moisture. Also remember in summer you can lighten up on your moisturizer. Think and heavy isn’t always better.

Do use a night cream as skin-cells regenerate faster at night, so take advantage and use a great night moisturizer (and here I thought night was time for rest. Not for your skin. Maybe that’s why I’m tired of a morning….). 

Doubling Up

Don’t apply too many products at once (this is a biggie for me as I’m always trying out new products). If you use too many products you can irritate your skin and not see the full affects.

Do nourish your skin with a nutrient moisturizer. Look for a product that tackles multiple of your skin care concerns. Vitamin C is a really good ingredient that has many wonderful effects.

Coffee!

Don’t drink too much coffee! A cup of coffee a day can have it’s benefits, but too much can also be really dehydrating.

Do use coffee based products on your skin because caffeine can help tighten your skin and also sooth 

redness (so I guess coffee is awesome after all).

Scrub

Don’t use harsh scrubs or scrub too often; general exfoliating rule is twice a week. Also make sure you avoid nuts in scrubs as they can make tiny abrasions.   

Do exfoliate with natural fruit enzymes. Fruit acids dissolve dead skin cells but in a gentle way. A good tip is to add lemon juice to your current scrub if you are happy with it but want something a bit more brightening and buffing.

A really great product for this is Origins Peel Pads. It’s not so much a exfoliate as a mask-esque product, but it has fruit enzymes and it is an amazing product!

Vegetables

Don’t rely on commercial drinks to give you the nourishment that your skin needs.

Do use a juicer if you have one to make your own juices. This is a great way to ensure that you are getting the most out of your vegetable intake. Another great tip is to take anti-inflammatory supplements (omega-3s, B vitamins, querecitin), which prevent acne flare-ups, help encourage moisture absorption and retention.

Blemishes

Don’t use a strong alcohol-based toner or toothpaste on blemishes, because this will strip the skin of moisture only causing more oil.

Do use an appropriate treatment on the blemish as soon as you notice it. Lactic acid is really good for cysts and salicylic acid or benzyl peroxide is great for minor to moderate breakouts.

Do you have any skincare dos and don’ts?

Nat xoxo