Maintaining a beautiful complexion
From those restless nights to indulgent evenings out, your skin often says it all. Stick by these tips for healthy skin to keep you looking radiant whatever life brings.
Tip one: sleep without make-up and sleep a lot
Sleep is one of your skin’s best friends, as Lisa Artis from the Sleep Council explains, “When you’re fast asleep, the body goes into repair mode and regenerates skin, blood and brain cells, as well as muscles.” Lack of shut-eye can lead to increased fine lines and dark circles, so make sure you’re getting the recommended eight hours to keep your youthful glow. Before you hit the hay, clean and clear skin by removing the day’s make-up and dirt with a good make-up remover. Choose a product that removes everything, including that long-lasting mascara, but is still gentle on your skin. Then apply a night cream - many work through the night, giving your skin a hit of hydration to leave your skin re-energised come morning.
Tip two: know your skin type
We all have very different skin, whether oily, dry, sensitive or combination, you need a product that’s just right for you and your unique skin. Here are a few helpful hints to suss out your skin type:
• Oily: Your pores usually appear larger and you never leave home without blotting papers
• Dry: Skin often feels tight and you sometimes notice small red, flaky patches
• Sensitive: Your skin is easily irritated leaving it feeling itchy and red
• Combination: You’ve got different sized pores in different areas. Some areas are oily and some are dry
Once you’ve got to grips with your skin type it’s time to find the right products for you. It can take a few attempts, so test out a few products with some samples.
Tip three: healthy from the inside out
Maintaining a healthy balanced diet, including drinking plenty of water, is a great way to make sure your skin is being fuelled right. Here are a few healthy skin vitamins and antioxidants to tick off:
• Vitamin A (or retinol) helps give skin a health kick
• Vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) helps aid healing whilst protecting tissues and cells
• Vitamin E helps to maintain and protect the structure of cells and their membranes
• Selenium (a mineral) helps protect cells and tissues from getting damaged
• Vitamin C & E and selenium (antioxidants) also help protect against sun damage
Tip four: sunshine happy skin
Last but by no means least, invest in a good SPF and UV face protection. Whether it’s in your BB cream or a specially designed facial sun protection, make sure your skin’s protected from the harsh rays come rain or shine. Help to stop squinting and reduce lines with a trusty pair of UV protection sunnies.