By: Julie Proszynski
Anti-aging remedies are a major topic in today’s beauty conversation. From the most innovative serums to tried and true remedies, the goal of graceful aging remains. However, those pesky fine lines sometimes still appear, even after following your favorite skincare expert’s recommendations. Though experts know all the tricks of the trade, keep in mind that bad skincare habits may diminish your results as well as your skin’s tone and texture. Here are a few of the top offenders.
Face and Pillow Contact
Have you ever applied copious amounts of moisture-binding products at bed time, only to wake up to tight, dry skin? Traditional cotton pillow cases have gotten a lot of flak in recent years due to their moisture-absorbing abilities. While absorbability is a huge asset in many ways, when it comes to reparative treatments, they are ideally absorbed by our skin. Silk and satin pillowcases are much gentler on your skin, and won’t leave you with deep creases on your cheek the following morning.
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Going Without SPF
Ask any esthetician and they will tell you SPF is an essential. No matter the weather or climate, apply early and often. When it comes to aging, there are intrinsic (internal) and extrinsic (external) factors. Much of the aging process can be attributed to extrinsic factors, including the sun’s UVA/UVB rays. Protecting your skin early with a quality SPF is like life insurance for you face. Many skin issues ranging from hyperpigmentation and sun spots to telangiectasias (broken blood vessels) can be greatly avoided with preventative measures. And remember: Sun damage is not instantaneous. So, while you may enjoy a deep tan now, it may result in something less luxurious later.
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Lack of Protective Eyewear
Crow’s feet around the eyes are typically the first to furrow. The skin on your face is much more sensitive than the rest of your body, particularly the delicate skin around the orbital bone. During the day when the sun is bright, don’t forget your sunglasses. Your body’s natural reaction to squint and filter the bright light can cause your facial muscles to strain over time. In addition to crow’s feet around the eyes, consistent squinting can lead to deep wrinkles in between the brows.
Not Moisturizing
As we age, our collagen and moisture levels begin to drop- hence why enthusiasts credit lack moisture as the first sign of aging (think wrinkles). The once youthful glow may not be as prevalent, however a fantastic way to counteract skin dehydration is by moisturizing consistently. Using creams and moisturizers that protect the skin’s acid mantle, a naturally secreted protective barrier composed of fatty acids and natural oils to help balance and protect the skin, will keep your complexion supple and hydrated.
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Picking at Your Skin
By far one of the hardest habits to break, picking at the skin on your face can lead to a plethora of issues, the most notable being scarring. Whether you are suffering from papules or pustules, only have a professional perform extractions. Otherwise you run the significant risk of deep, pitted scars. Likewise, popping pimples incorrectly may push the bacteria back down deep into the skin and cause it to spread to surrounding areas, eventually leading to more pimples and infection. While it may be hard, a beneficial way to avoid picking is to take part in an at-home skincare routine, and dedicate time every four to six weeks for a deep cleansing facial and exfoliating treatment.