Skin sins: Ways we abuse our skin without knowing it

Adrianna Mejia

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Skin sins: Ways we abuse our skin without knowing it
Read on for the things we tend to overlook about skin care
 

MANILA, Philippines – Our skin is probably the organ we neglect the most. Whether it’s because of our busy schedule, or we simply forget or get lazy; we can ignore the importance of it. 

Considering the pollution we’re exposed to everyday, the stress from work, lack of exercise and unhealthy food we eat, the skin is already exposed to enough abuse without the help of our mistakes. The only thing that we cannot stop is aging. But even if we cannot reverse time, practicing a proper daily regimen and letting go of habits that may affect our skin are things that we can control. It requires only a little bit of discipline.

We can still turn things around and be aware of the things that we tend to overlook when it comes to skin care. Here’s a list of skin sins:

1. Ignoring skin type 

Skin care products are often categorized for a particular skin type – oily, normal, dry, sensitive or a combination. Skin type varies per individual, it can even change due to weather, hormones and stress levels, and the products that we use on our skin have a huge impact. In order for us to prevent acne, allergic reactions and also get the best results of the products we purchase, we must know what our skin type is and choose the right maintenance for it.   

2.  Skipping lotion

GOOD NIGHT'S SLEEP? Make sure your skin is also moisturized!

When we head out for the day, we tend to forget to put on lotion. Maybe we’re rushing out or we ignore the fact that our skin can easily become dry especially with the hot weather. How about after a night out or a busy day in the office? All we want to do is lie on our bed after a shower. But did you know that skin repairs itself at night? So to help our skin become healthy, put some lotion before starting the day and before sleeping.

3. Not using SPF

FUN IN THE SUN. Your skin also needs protection everyday especially when you are exposed to UV rays.

Sun damage may not be noticeable right away, but the UV rays from the sun (even if the sun isn’t out) can affect the skin’s fibers called elastin. Sun spots and wrinkles can be avoided if we use sunblock – especially when out on the beach. But did you know that even your computer screen emits rays that can cause aging? So best to use a product with SPF daily. 

4. Using harsh soap on our skin

BE GENTLE. Soap will only strip away moisture in skin so better think again what products you use.

Moisturizing is very important. But certain products actually strip skin of precious hydration. Some of us may already have preferences with our bath products. While others just use whatever soap is in the shower. However, certain soaps can dry your skin.

Choose cleansing bars or liquids that have moisturizing qualities to make your bath time also good for your skin.

5.  Not drinking enough water

DRINK UP. Water is not only good for your health but also good for your skin.

For years, we’ve been told how important moisturizing is and that drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, or at least 2 liters of water, not only helps our body from the inside, but can also help us avoid dry, tight and flaky skin. But drinking water can only go so far and so we need to find ways to better utilize the benefits of water to our skin, such as using topical products that keep skin moisturized 24/7.

The science of skin care

But what is the science behind something that seems to be skin deep?  

Moisture is actually linked to aquaporins, a protein in the cell membrane that helps form water channels allowing water to flow freely from cell to cell in our skin. Increasing aquaporins helps our skin better hydrate and moisturize itself. 

While practicing good hygiene is a must, using the right personal care product is just as important. Knowing and understanding how these products affect the skin will help you choose what’s best for you. Rappler.com

All graphics by Mara Mercado.

With the development of the Hydra IQ technology by the makers of NIVEA, there are now products that allow your skin to moisturize itselfClick on the links if you want to find out more.

 

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