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3 Habits That Are Aging Your Skin Faster Than It Should Be + What To Do
Habits form the backbone of our well-being. The food we consume, the workouts we complete, and the mindful activities we engage in all contribute to how we feel each day. This principle extends beyond general health to your skin and complexion as well.
While genetics undeniably play a significant role in how our skin ages, our daily habits have an equally profound effect. To help optimize the aging process of your skin—not just for aesthetics but for its overall health—it’s crucial to be mindful of common mistakes that can accelerate skin aging. Here are three habits to reconsider:
1. Skimping on Whole & Natural Foods
There is a strong link between what we eat and the condition of our skin, often referred to as the “gut-skin axis.” A healthy gut creates a beneficial environment that positively impacts the appearance and health of your skin.
While it’s important to focus on foods that support gut health—like those containing probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber—it’s also critical to pay attention to your antioxidant intake. Antioxidants, commonly found in whole and natural foods, help combat free radicals. If left unchecked, these free radicals can lead to oxidative stress, contributing to accelerated skin aging.
Tip: Prioritize antioxidant-rich foods in your diet. For an added boost, consider incorporating a beauty supplement with antioxidants.
2. Forgetting to Wear (and Reapply) SPF
It’s a sobering fact: around 80% of visible skin aging is attributed to UV damage from the sun. The good news is that much of this damage can be prevented by taking your sun care regimen seriously. It’s not enough to merely apply SPF when heading to the beach or lying out for a tan; it should be a consistent part of your morning routine—rain or shine.
During days spent outdoors, especially in direct sunlight, it’s essential to reapply your SPF diligently. Experts recommend reapplying every two hours, particularly if you’re swimming or sweating.
Tip: If you wear makeup, consider using a brush-on SPF or a tinted moisturizer with SPF—these can make reapplication much easier throughout the day.
3. Overwhelming Your Skin Barrier
The old adage that “beauty is pain” has led many to use harsh exfoliants or to overdo retinol treatments. Fortunately, there’s an emerging emphasis on caring for the skin barrier instead of overwhelming it. The skin barrier is vital for maintaining overall skin health, and research has shown it is linked to various health issues caused by chronic inflammation.
Guidelines for Healthy Skin Barrier:
- Do: Use moisturizer when your skin feels dry and consider barrier creams for additional support.
- Don’t: Use retinol products that cause itchiness or inflammation.
- Do: Protect your skin with SPF to prevent burns and skin cancer.
- Don’t: Exfoliate daily if your skin becomes sensitive.
- Do: Nourish your skin’s microbiome with prebiotic toners and serums.
- Don’t: Use cleansers that strip your skin of moisture.
By evaluating and adjusting your daily habits, your skin will thank you for prioritizing its health. Embracing these changes can lead to graceful aging and a healthier complexion.
The Takeaway
When it comes to skin aging, our daily habits are critical. Focus on consuming antioxidant-rich foods, wearing and reapplying SPF daily, and maintaining a healthy skin barrier to contribute to a more youthful appearance. For more skincare tips that suit your complexion, check out additional resources for guidance.
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