The Worst Things For Your Skin

My Favourite Sun Lotion - Smells Like Coconut!

Sun

Contrary to popular belief, baking in the sun doesn't clear up spots, especially if it's spots on your face. It might modify your skin tone so they aren't as visible, and it might dry up the outer layer of skin, but it can actually exacerbate* the problem, particularly if you're prone to rosacea* or on medication that's light sensitive*.
   And speaking of sun, don't forget to apply SPF on your chest, neck and hands, as the thinner layers of skin here will show sun spots. You can do everything to maintain a young looking face and quickly give yourself easily away elsewhere. There are great natural and mineral-based sunscreens on the market that don't contain scary chemicals - a small powder foundation is something I keep in my bag for when I re-apply my sun cream. And because it's not liquid it's perfect for on the go. You don't need to pull out the SPF 45 on a daily basis - and you shouldn't avoid the sun completely, since that can result in having a vitamin-D deficiency. Anything in the SPF 15 to 30 range should be enough for everyday. 
   I've said it before, and I'll say it again, if you expose yourself too much to sun throughout your life make sure you see a dermatologist for a full-body check. Skin cancer can be fatal; it's key to catch it early. If you're obsessed with having tanned skin, and make up doesn't cut it - look at fake tanners. There are countless options and brands in shops to give a natural glow. 

Smoking

In addition to all the horrible things smoking can do to your health, it's another way to destroy your health. Not only because you'll get wrinkles around your mouth but because smoking speeds up the aging process of the skin. It's a gross habit, so just try to steer clear of it. 

Dehydration

Your skin is your body's largest organ and it need hydration to function at it's best. Drink pleanty of water and you skin cells will be plump and healthy. 

Picking At Your Face

This one's easy - picking at your face will only exacerbate whatever's going on there. Hands off for a happier complexion. Make sure to keep your phones and glasses clean because they can harbor bacteria that you don't want touching your face. 

One Simple Thing You Can Do Everyday

I know I've pretty much shoved the SPF message down your throats but there's one more thing you need to know. Your lips need protection too. Add a lip balm with SPF into your collection and you're covered. There are tinted ones, so you can be protecting your mouth and prettying up your pout at the same time. 

Which sun cream products do you use? 

Have you joined stoptober? 

xx

*Exacerbate - To make a problem, situation or bad feeling worse. 

**Rosacea - A condition in which facial blood vessels enlarge.

***Light Sensitive Medication - Such as:

• benzoyl peroxide, BenzaClin, Benzamycin
• Accutane (isotretinoin)
• Products containing alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, etc.)
• Antibiotics like doxycyline, metronidazole,erythromycin and Bactrim
• Retinoids like Retin-A, Differin, Tazorac, Ziana