Great skin requires time and commitment.
The great news is, it’s never too late to start! If you stick to a good routine, it will totally pay off.
Below we have put together a starter plan to help you on your way to smoother, clearer skin!
Cut The Sugar
This is one of the most important steps you can take if you want smooth, clear skin. If your diet consists of sugar and lots of it, then it really won’t matter how many lotions and potions you apply to your skin. Your diet is going to determine its texture and appearance.
As well as contributing to breakouts and acne, high levels of sugar in the blood can also contribute to wrinkles.
As nutritionist, Cassandra Barns, explains, “Glycation occurs when sugar molecules bind to proteins or fats, making them stiff and inflexible. One of the proteins affected is collagen, and this can result in loss of elasticity of the skin, encouraging the formation of wrinkles.”
Cut The Stress
Stress and anxiety will have a direct impact on the quality of your skin. The stress hormone in the body contributes to other hormone imbalances which consequently leads to break outs.
Stress can also lead to dryness of the skin and even patches of eczema. According to a study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, women, who are experiencing high stress situations tend to suffer with dehydrated and irritated skin.
Cut The Chemicals
The level of chemical in certain products can result in skin becoming irritated. If this happens, it may be worth considering switching to 100% natural products.
Look for products that have a high percentage of natural, organic, plant-based ingredients and are free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, and harsh detergents.
Nutritionist, Cassandra Barns adds, “For sensitive and even acne-prone skins, natural pure oils such as extra virgin coconut oil or jojoba oil can be the gentlest option for cleansing and moisturising.”
Cut The Crappy Sleeping Pattern
If you knew JUST how much your sleeping pattern affects your skin, you would be so disciplined on getting your 8 hours each night! If you have trouble sleeping, try a soothing sleep aid such as Deep Sleep Pillow Spray.
Include Avocados In Your Diet
If you want good skin, then you need to eat good food. Up your intake of avocados, smoked salmon, nuts and seeds. Nutritonist Lily Soutter explains why:
“They not only have great hormone balancing effects, which can help prevent spots but also are potent anti-inflammatories, which can reduce symptoms of eczema and psoriasis”.
Try to also include a serving of oily fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines in your diet three times a week.
It goes without saying that you should also up your intake of bottled water. It all makes a big difference.
SPF
Given that prevention is always better than a cure, the most beneficial skincare habit you could possibly develop is the daily application of SPF.
You may not notice a difference right away, but you certainly will in years to come.
Sip Warm Water
Warm water is one of the best things you can drink. Some people like to mix a little fresh lemon into it, others like to drink it on its own. It’s all about preference. Green tea is equally as good.
Get A Facial
Once a month, if you can, treat yourself to a facial or an exfoliating treatment. Treatments that help clear impurities from the skin will pay dividends both now and in the future.
