Taking care of your skin is a lifelong process that extends far beyond washing your face in the morning and using anti-aging serums once you notice a wrinkle or two. When it comes to keeping your skin healthier and happier lifelong, it’s never too early — or too late — to get started.
Whether you’re a total skincare junkie or a young newb, we’ve compiled a list of must-dos to get your skin health up to 100%. Start doing them now to reap the benefits later.
1. Wear sunscreen
The sun is one of the most intense skin-damaging factors out there and sometimes we can’t escape it. So it’s important to start the process of protecting against the sun as early as possible. Not only does sun damage your skin, but it can also cause other issues like an increased risk of skin cancer. Make sure you’re using an SPF at all times, even when it’s cloudy out — at least an SPF 30 should do the trick.
2. Quit exfoliating everyday
Exfoliation removes the outer layer to reveal the newer skin beneath. This removal of the outer layer unclogs pores, keeps the skin clean, improves texture and tone and helps prevent acne breakouts. Exfoliation is important, but do it too often and it can actually break down your skin’s moisture barrier and cause damage over time. The key is to use a gentle exfoliant like Polish and only use it 2 - 4 times a week.
3. Start using Bakuchiol
You might not have heard of it, but I can bet you have probably heard of Retinol. Bakuchiol (bah-koo-chee-ole) - the first ever plant-based, vegan alternative to retinol. Retinol has been long touted as the holy grail in skincare ingredients, but it comes with side effects - like extreme sun sensitivities. Bakuchiol, found in Tailor Illume, is a Retinal alternative without the negative impacts. Intrigued? Read more about this anti-ageing, anti-acne, powerhouse ingredient here.
4. Omega-3’s; chia and flax seeds
You’ve probably heard Omegas been thrown around before but instantly you think of fish. Vegans rejoice - Chia and Flax seeds to the rescue! These tiny seeds both pack a big punch and are rich in Omega-3 (ref). Throw a teaspoon of each into your smoothie and prepare to reap the benefits. Not only do they help strengthen the skins barrier and keep it protected from environmental harm, they work wonders for your inner health too.
5. Stay hydrated
Drinking enough water every day is good for your whole body, but it can be especially helpful in taking care of your skin for life. Especially if you tend to have dry and dehydrated skin, making sure your face is nourished and hydrated could be the difference between dry, damaged skin and healthy, dewy skin. So how much should we be drinking to stay hydrated? Aim for 6-8 cups a day! (ref)
6. Eat clean and exercise
This goes in line with staying hydrated, but it’s true that eating clean and taking care of your body can radiate an impact over every inch of you, including your skin! While you should always make sure to wash your face after a workout and avoid inflammatory foods, looking after your health in general can help you glow from the inside out.
7. Quit smoking
If you haven’t quit smoking yet or if you still take a puff here and there, quitting as soon as you can is the best way to make sure it impacts you as little as possible in the long run. Tobacco can cause all kinds of skin problems — from wrinkles to discoloration and even sagging. Quitting can be hard, but it’ll ultimately be worth it. Check out Quitline NZ for some handy tips on how to quit.
8. Take off your makeup before bed
Leaving dirt, sebum, and makeup on your face before you go to bed can not only cause irritation and damage to your skin but can also clog your pores and cause breakouts. The sooner you start a nighttime skin care routine, the better — even if it’s minimal. Tailor Oil Cleanse + Towel is the perfect, simple night time cleanser and nourishment in one. Effortlessly remove makeup and grime, whilst leaving your skin glowing and hydrated. Who says you can’t get your glow on before bed?
9. Never pop, squeeze, or pick
Although popping and squeezing your pimples and spots can be tempting and even gratifying, it can, unfortunately, be quite rough on the skin. Whether or not you have sensitive skin, popping and squeezing your spots can cause abrasion and damage that takes a long time to recover from. You might even end up with lasting scars or discoloration from keeping your hands too involved in your face. If you can’t wait for the blemishes to pass, try heading to a professional.
10. Use vitamin C products
Vitamin C is a newfound skincare secret that many people have been turning to recently, and for good reason. Vitamin C products can help strengthen your skin’s protective barrier, which helps to protect your skin from things like sun damage, discoloration, blemishes, and scars. Don’t just grab any Vit C product from the shelf though. Vit C is a highly active ingredient, but it doesn’t have the best shelf life once it is mixed with water. Because we know how important active Vit C is for our skin, we designed a powder based product that lets you get the full benefits every time you use it. Read more on that here.
Helping your skin age healthily
No matter what your skin care preferences and routines look like, it’s never too early to start caring for your skin and preparing for years to come. By taking simple steps to protect your skin from damage and nourishing it effectively, you can start preparing your skin for a healthy life whenever you want. Which of these habits are you ready to start right now?
Mia Barnes is the Managing Editor of Body+Mind and a writer on all things beauty and wellness. Her favorite topics to write about include sustainable skincare and nutrition.