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50 Skin Care Tips

Woman Applying Clay Mask

Skin is your body’s largest organ. Made up of millions of cells, your skin is constantly evolving and adapting to maintain health so it can protect your body. If you want to improve your appearance, reduce the risk of cancer, or slow signs of aging, try these 50 skin care tips.

#1 – Hydrate

It’s widely documented that drinking the right amount of water each day can be beneficial to your health. For your skin, hydration is important because dry skin is less resilient and more prone to damage and wrinkling. While drinking water doesn’t directly improve your skin, maintaining optimal moisture levels will help your skin cells to function properly, reducing the risk of skin damage aging effects.

Couple in Bed Sleeping

#2 – Sleep

There’s no replacing a good night’s sleep. While you sleep, blood flow to your skin increases and your body naturally repairs skin damage while restoring cells. Skin cells renew about twice as fast while you sleep compared to the time you are awake. If you don’t feel well rested, your skin will likely show it.

#3 – Sunscreen

Always wear sunscreen on exposed skin if you’re going outdoors. A good sunscreen will help prevent wrinkles and age spots, and it can reduce the risk of skin cancer. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen that will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF rating of 30 or higher. If you’re outdoors for several hours you should apply sunscreen more than one time. Many skin experts suggest applying sunscreen daily, even if you’re not going to be outdoors.

#4 – Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can minimize skin damage, increase collagen production, and improve your skin’s ability to heal. This makes it an effective anti-aging ingredient in skin care products and food. A diet with the proper amount of vitamin C can be supplemented with Ascorbic Acid Vitamin C products to improve skin health.

#5 – Shave Carefully

Razor burn, or bumps that appear after shaving means your skin is not happy. Finding the right technique and mixture of products that suits your skin can greatly improve your skin’s appearance. Always use a moisturizing shaving cream. If your skin is irritated after shaving, experiment with “sensitive skin” shaving creams. Shave in the direction that your hair grows, this will reduce skin bumps and razor burn. Make sure you rinse your razor after every stroke or two. If you’re still having problems with bumps and razor burn, try a different razor. Sometimes more or less blades on a razor suits a person’s body better. Also, change the blade if things don’t feel smooth. Most blades will last 4-6 shaves.

#6 – Drink Tea

Unsweetened iced tea is loaded with antioxidants, and it has anti-inflammatory properties that are good for your skin. You’re also hydrating while drinking. Green tea has the added benefit of Vitamins B and E which can help collagen production.

Salad with Avacado and Toast

#7 – Leafy Greens

Spinach, arugula and Kale are loaded with antioxidants that help skin to repair itself . Adding more Leafy Greens to your diet could improve your complexion and your health in many other ways.

#8 – Exfoliate

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead and dry skin cells with a scrub. A buildup of dead skin can clog pores and slow your skin’s natural renewal process. Exfoliating once or twice a week can improve your skin’s texture, reduce the likelihood of blemishes and improve moisture absorption. There are a number of products and techniques for exfoliating depending on your skin type, so experiment with which option best suits your skin. Chemical exfoliating products often contain Alpha Hydroxy Acids and Beta Hydroxy Acids. These are good for acne and blemish prone skin types. Physical exfoliating products are more about the scrub, and the grit and/or exfoliating beads of the product.  Most people do well with a product contains some combination of physical and chemical exfoliants.

#9 – Moisturize

How often you moisturize will depend on how dry or oily your skin is naturally. Everyone should moisturize regularly though. For typical skin that means once a day. Moisturizing can prevent signs of aging while making your skin feel soft, fresh and rejuvenated. You should  moisturize your entire body regularly, and your face once or twice a day. There are many moisturizing products available as creams, lotions, and ointments. You should experiment with different products, and consult your dermatologist to find a product that will be best for your skin type.

#10 – Don’t Smoke

Smokers tend to have more wrinkles on their face from inhaling and exhaling (puffing). Sometimes called “smoker’s lines”, these face wrinkles get more noticeable with age, and the intensity of a person’s smoking habit. Studies have also shown that nicotine causes vasoconstriction, a condition that narrows blood vessels and limits blood flow. This causes wounds and damaged skin to heal at a slower rate.

#11 – Avoid the Sun

Tanned skin is damaged skin. When you tan your skin produces more melanin (pigment) to protect itself. We like the look of tanned skin, but it’s not actually healthy. Avoiding the sun and direct UV exposure will decrease the risk of skin damage, skin cancer and the common effects of aging in your skin. The hours between 10am and 4pm are when the sun’s UV rays are most damaging, so stay inside, cover up, or make sure you’ve applied sunscreen during those hours.

Kettlebell Exercise Class

#12 – Exercise

Working out increases blood flow, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to your skin. Exercising regularly is also known to reduce stress, which can also impact your skin. Working out a few times each week can improve your overall skin health, and many studies have shown exercise reduces the effects of aging on the skin.

#13 – Sweat

While it is important to wash soon after sweating, sweat does have some benefits for your skin. The process of sweating opens and cleans pores. This can reduce blackheads and other blemishes. Wash (especially your face) soon after sweating though, or the debris you just cleared from your pores can settle back into your skin and cause breakouts. Use a mild facial cleanser and warm water to clean your face after sweating to avoid any problems.

#14 – Peptides

One of the best ways to naturally reduce the signs of aging in your skin is to help  stimulate the production of collagen. Collagen helps your skin look and feel firm and smooth. It’s production reduces as you age. Peptides are chains of amino acids, when applied topically, they can penetrate the skin and help stimulate collagen production. There are a number of peptides skin care products on the market, usually in the form of a cream or lotion.

#15 – Don’t Sleep in Makeup

You skin restores itself while you sleep, so it’s important to always remove makeup before bed. Makeup can clog pores and trap dirt and bacteria on your skin’s surface. This can lead to break-outs and skin damage.

Woman Washing Face in Sink

#16 – Don’t Wash Your Face with Hot Water

Wash your face with warm water, not hot. Hot water can actually cause your skin to dry out because natural oils are stripped away by extreme heat.

#17 – Drink Less Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates the body, including skin. It also causes inflammation, which can lead to redness. If you do drink, give your skin some time to recover by taking days off, and be sure to drink plenty of water everyday to keep your hydration up.

#18 – Visit a Dermatologist

Just like a medical checkup or a routine dental visit, it’s a good idea to have a skin check-up periodically as you get older. This is especially true if you have any new moles, or skin markings that are growing in size. A complete skin check-up will allow you to understand your skin’s condition, and how to best maintain it in the future. Most importantly, skin cancer can be cured if caught early.

#19 – Avoid Waxing

Waxing your skin to remove hair can cause redness and skin inflammation. Waxing can lead to ingrown hairs and it can sometimes damage pores. Consider other hair removal methods such as laser hair removal.

Woman Receiving Spray Tan

#20 – Self-Tanners Are Safer Than the Sun

If you like looking tan, use a self tanner. Indoor and outdoor tanning damages your skin and increases your risk of skin cancer. Self-tanners are generally sold as lotions or creams that are applied directly to your skin. Sunless tanning products can give your skin a nice bronzed look without exposing it to UV rays.

#21 – Get a Lymphatic Drainage Massage

The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove toxins from body tissue. A Lymphatic Drainage Massage discourages fluid to build up in certain areas. This type of massage can improve circulation and reduce swelling. This can decrease puffiness in the skin, and smooth skin without using harsh products. It’s also a great stress reliever.

#22 – Don’t Touch Your Face

Hands are usually dirty. Resting your face or neck on your hand allows dirt, allergens and bacteria to transfer to your face. Holding your hand on your skin for long periods of time allows that dirt to work its way into pores, which can lead to blemishes. It might seem like a small thing, but keeping your hands off your face can really make a difference in your complexion. If you are acne-prone, this is especially important.

#23 – Cover Cuts and Wounds

Use Band-aids to cover any skin injuries soon after they occur. Wounds heal faster when covered. Uncovered wounds can dry out, which slows new cell growth and the skin’s ability to repair itself. Wounds that dry out will form scabs that can be more apparent, and can potentially cause scarring.

Woman Applying Clay Mask

#24 – Clay Masks

A clay face mask is good for removing dirt and bacteria from your pores. A 10-15 minute application a couple of times each week can refine pores, reduce the shine of oily skin, and decrease the likelihood of breakouts.

#25 – Keep Your Pillow Case Clean

Your pillowcase collects dirt, sweat and other debris from your face while you’re sleeping. It also collects dust and dirt from your bedroom while you’re not sleeping. Changing your pillowcase regularly will ensure your skin is resting on a clean surface that won’t put dirt in contact with your face.

#26 – Sleep Right

If you sleep on your side or stomach you’re likely to get sleep lines on your face. If you can comfortably sleep on your back, or in a position that doesn’t put pressure on your skin, you could reduce facial wrinkles later in life.

#27 – Protect Your Hands

You hands get all sorts of abuse. Wear gloves when working in the yard, bike riding or doing any activity where your hands could get cut. Gloves will protect your skin from the sun, reduce the likelihood of a cut or bruise, and you’ll reduce the risk of calluses and blisters. Over many years, this little tip could reduce the appearance of aging in your hands.

Woman Receiving Facial

#28 – Get a Facial

A professional facial provides a personalized treatment that will help prevent many skin problems including: wrinkles, dryness, dark circles, enlarged pores, sagging lids and more. If it’s in your budget, a facial once a month is a good investment for your skin.

#29 – Reduce Sugar

Sugar causes the collagen and elastin in your skin to be less effective, which decreases their ability to keep your skin looking young and healthy. Sugar is also known to make acne and other skin conditions more pronounced. While the benefits may not be dramatic, reducing your sugar intake can certainly improve your complexion over time.

#30 – Look for Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a healthy fat that can help protect skin cells against inflammation and sun damage. Either through food or supplements, try to make omega-3 part of your diet.

#31 – Have a Lemon Water

While you’re hydrating with water, your skin also get the benefits of Vitamin C. Vitamin C can reduce the likelihood of wrinkles, and prevent damage from the sun.

Avacados and Avacado Oil

#32 – Avocados

Avocados contain antioxidants and Vitamins C and E, which are all good for your skin. They also contain the healthy fat, omega 9 fatty acid, which helps maintain your skin’s moisture while repairing damaged skin.

#33 – Be Gentle With Your Face

Anything too abrasive on your face can damage your skin. Wash your face gently with warm water. Don’t scrub vigorously, this can irritate your skin and cause redness. Wash using your fingertips and/or a soft cloth.

#34 – Try Retinol for Anti-Aging

Retinol increases collagen production and encourages skin cell renewal. Available in creams and serums, this Vitamin A product reduces the appearance of wrinkles and age spots, while evening the skin’s overall tone.

#35 – Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are applied to the skin and then peeled off. In the process, debris and dry skin is removed. A chemical peel can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while encouraging healthy bacteria grow.

#36 – Cold Compress

A cold compress (many people use cold cucumber slices) under your eyes will help tone down the puffiness. The cold will reduce any swelling in this area.

Woman Applying Bug Spray

#37 – Fend Off Bugs

Bug bites not only cause unsightly bumps on your skin, many insects are dangerous to your health. If you’re going to be outdoors, cover up and spray your clothes with an insect repellent that contains DEET. Use a 100% natural bug repellent on your skin. If possible, avoid being in areas where there are lots of insects when they are most active; at dawn and dusk.

#38 – Sex

Sex reduces stress, increases blood flow and boosts the production of collagen, all of which benefit your skin. A little sweat doesn’t hurt either, as sweat opens your pores and flushes impurities from your skin.

#39 – Eat Less Salt

Too much sodium robs your skin and body of moisture. If your skin is especially dry and dull in appearance, this diet change could be a huge help.

#40 – Sweet Potatoes and Carrots

Foods with high levels of beta-carotene can make your skin softer while brightening your complexion. These foods are a way to naturally improve pale skin while providing dozens of other health benefits.

Women Wearing Sunglasses

#41 – Sunglasses

Wearing sunglasses will keep you from squinting when out in the sun. This will help prevent crow’s feet and other wrinkles. Get a good pair of sunglasses with large lenses and UV protection. This can also protect the sensitive skin around your eyes from damaging rays.

#42 – Milk Bath

Adding a few cups of milk to your bath can make you skin feel softer. The lactic acid acts as a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells.

#43 – Consider Indoor Sun Exposure

Most people don’t think about applying sunscreen when indoors, but have you considered how much sun exposure you get inside your home? UV rays can be reduced with UV protecting windows, or with window coverings. If you have lots of natural light in your home, reducing the direct rays could benefit your skin.

#44 – Indoor Lighting

Many indoor lights also emit low levels of UV light that can harm your skin. Don’t sit too close to indoor lights, and when possible use LED or  Incandescent Bulbs rather than fluorescence and halogen lights.

#45 – Foam-up

If you have oily skin avoid harsh washes. Oil and alcohol based products are not great long-term either. To avoid irritation, use a gentle foaming face wash. The foaming action will remove excess oil and refresh your skin without harsh ingredients.

Man Receiving Microneedling Procedure

#46 – Microneedling

Microneedling is a process that stimulates collagen growth and increases the absorption rate of skin products. A roller or pen type tool uses small needles to prick the skin, reducing wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. Many skincare experts provide microneedling, and there are also at-home kits.

#47 – Protect Your Skin While Flying

It’s easy to forget about your skin on a long flight, but airplanes let in a lot of sun, and they can quickly dry your skin out. Wear sunscreen when flying, make sure you drink plenty of water, and if you have dry skin, pack a moisturizer or hydrating spray.

#48 – Pimple Makeup Trick

If you wear makeup and have a pimple you’re going to cover up, apply liquid bandage first. Makeup can slow the healing process. With the liquid bandage in place, the makeup will not touch the blemish.

#49 – Eat Salmon

Not only is this fish healthy and high in protein, but it also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which nourish your skin and help protect against inflammation and sun damage.

Skincare Bottles and Jars

#50 – Perfect Your Routine

You skin appreciates consistency. If you’ve spent some time experimenting with various products; moisturizers, exfoliators, etc., try to find the minimum number of products and skin care steps you need, and stick to that routine. Keep things as simple as possible. Remember, many products and treatments can take weeks or months to be effective, so be patient. If you have any issues that you can’t address on your own, visit a dermatologist for some expert advice.

Need help perfecting your skin care routine? Schedule a consultation with our Certified Advanced Esthetician, Helen Carey, by calling 503-227-7117.

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