Do you moisturize regularly and lather on sunscreen but are still not seeing the clear, glowing skin you desire? The reason may lie in some of your everyday habits. Even the most seemingly innocent habits can rob your skin of its health and beauty. Louisville plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Maguire reveals common unhealthy skin habits, as well as ways to repair your skin.
1. Skipping Sleep
Sleep is essential for many things, including beautiful, youthful skin. Sleeping less than seven to eight hours a night can interfere with your body and skin’s abilities to replenish and repair themselves. Chronic lack of sleep can also speed up the aging process, causing fine lines, wrinkles and puffy under-eye bags to become more prominent on your skin.
2. Sleeping with Your Makeup On
Maybe you do get enough sleep but still see regular breakouts and blemishes. The reason behind this may be another unhealthy bedtime habit: not washing your makeup off at night. Sleeping with your makeup on can clog your pores and cause your skin to break out. Make it a habit to wash your face using a gentle cleanser at night. Keep a pack of facial cleansers by your nightstand for nights when you are too tired (or too lazy) to wash your face.
3. Too Much Sun, Not Enough Sunscreen
The effects of sun damage are many, from increasing the risk of skin cancer, to sunburns and premature wrinkles. Sunscreen is a key defense against sun damage. Unfortunately the majority of Americans do not regularly use sunscreen, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. You should wear broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you go outdoors (including during cloudy, winter weather). Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours.
4. Overindulging in Coffee and Lattes
Coffee dehydrates your skin, causing it to look dull and dry. Ultimately, skipping your morning latte is a small price to pay for bright, luminous skin. Make it a habit to limit your coffee intake and instead, drink plenty of water throughout the day.
How to Repair Skin Damage
Even individuals who practice a good skin care regimen may need professional help. Physician’s Center for Beauty offers an array of skin treatments to treat sun damage and premature aging. Among our popular treatments is laser skin resurfacing, which uses tiny pulses of light energy to strip dead cells from the skin and promote the production of healthier and younger-looking skin.
To discuss your skin care goals with our team, schedule a consultation. Contact Physician’s Center for Beauty by sending us an email or calling (502) 897-7546 today.