It’s a new year, which means you have the perfect excuse to adopt some new skin-care habits that will help you enjoy that flawless, smooth look you crave.
After all, it’s not that expensive serum or once-a-quarter facial treatment that makes or breaks your appearance-it’s the everyday routine. If yours is rushed, stressed, and fueled by fast food and sugar, your skin will suffer.
Check out these good-skin habits instead, to see what may be missing from your daily regimen.
1. Get at least 7 hours of sleep.
As we noted in a previous post, a recent study found that just five nights of poor sleep doubled the amount of fine lines and wrinkles, with participants suffering three-quarters more brown spots. Lack of sleep also hindered the skin’s ability to repair itself after exposure to the sun or pollution.
According to a 2010 study, sleep-deprived people were rated as less healthy and less attractive than those who got a normal night’s sleep.
Make it a habit to get at least 7 hours every night of the week, no exceptions. Look in the mirror after just two weeks of this and you’ll see the difference.
2. Protect your skin at all times.
The sun is the biggest factor in accelerated aging. It causes fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots and hyperpigmentation, and sagging and bagging. Use a broad-spectrum daily sunblock with an SPF of 30-50. Even if you work inside all day, your skin needs the protection. Don’t forget to reapply as needed.
It’s a mistake, however, if you rely exclusively on sunscreen for protection. It’s easy to miss a spot, or forget to reapply, and sunscreens aren’t perfect. Some UV radiation can still get through, which can lead to long-term damage. Don’t forget hats, umbrellas, protective clothing, and other protective tools.
