Your skin is your body’s beautiful shield that needs to be protected and loved. Here are some tips for my people who need to feel more confident in their skin:
1. Never go to sleep with makeup on. I know it’s tempting, especially on those nights when the last thing you want to do is stand in front of the mirror for even five more minutes when you could be under your covers, but your skin (and pillows) will thank you.
2. Wear sunscreen everyday. Yes, it might be winter, it might be cold, but the sun is still there, laughing at us for thinking we’re safe. Sunscreen protects you not only from redness, sunburn and acne, but also from possible skin cancer. Just make sure to wash it off once you’re back inside, and to use non-oily sunscreens that are made for your face. If you want to double team, find effective face lotions with sun protection, such as The Body Shop Vitamin C Daily Moisturizer.
Photo Courtesy of IMfree.com
3. Eat yummy, healthy foods that are also great for your skin. Eating right for your body has an infinite amount of benefits, but certain foods can also help keep your skin clear, such as sweet potatoes, oily fish like tuna and salmon, and almonds. Try to avoid fast foods and candy that can cause breakouts. (But if you give in to In-N-Out once in awhile because of a hard test or a bad day at work, we’ll forgive you. We’ve all been there.)
4. Find a face wash, lotion and any other skin products you choose to have that work for your unique and beautiful face. Over the years, I’ve learned that my skin is sensitive and prone to reacting to products that don’t fit its special type. I currently use Neutrogena lotion for sensitive skin, which I apply twice a day, and makeup wipes for sensitive skin. But, everyone’s skin is different, so what works for me might not be the best for you. Do your research, experiment, and talk to a dermatologist or doctor if you have additional questions.
5. On that note, wash your face twice a day. This is a must. Your future self will thank you.
6. Exercise, but make sure you take care of that sweat after. Whether it’s yoga, soccer, dance or swimming, exercising not only keeps you heart pumping and muscles working, but it also nourishes your skin cells and keeps them vital. Just make sure to shower after to keep lingering sweat from creating acne. (If you can, don’t wear makeup while working out, as it can clog your pores. Save that cute highlight for after the trip to the gym.)
Photo Courtesy of IMfree.com
7. Find skin makeup that is actually good for your skin. If makeup is your thing, that’s awesome! Just wear it responsibly by making sure you’re using products that benefit your skin rather than make it worse. Foundations such as Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation or Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation are super cute, but also way better for your skin than many popular products on the market today. Keep making us proud with that flawless cat-eye.
8. No picking! It might be tempting, you might think it’ll make the problems go away but it WON’T! Picking will give your skin acne scars and create a bigger mess than you had in the first place. As hard as it is, leave your skin to heal itself on its own.
9. Get some rest. This is pretty much the most difficult thing on earth in college, but having a regular sleep schedule and getting your eight hours will help your skin immensely. Take advantage of having the opportunity to go to bed early.
10. For any more questions or a more in-depth analysis, visit your dermatologist. Acne pills are a blessing. Birth control can often be a skin blessing. Ask your dermatologist for specifics about your skin, the best solutions for acne, and products that will work the best for you.