Many people who are prone to pimples or have oily skin gravitate toward
exfoliators and cleansers that dry things out. In theory, this seems
like a good idea, but they actually strip the skin of all its good oils
and diminish its own natural protective barrier, explains Noelle Herzog,
brand president of Karin Herzog skincare. This actually accelerates oil
production and will increase breakouts.
2. Using products in jars
Anti-aging products contain antioxidants, which break down with repeated
exposure to light and air. "Jar packaging lets that occur with each
use," says Bryan Barron, research and content director for BeautyPedia. "So your anti-aging products become less and less effective." He suggests using tube-packaged products.
3. Skimping on sleep
We all know how a good night's rest can benefit our energy levels,
metabolism, and mood. But, it also has a great effect on our skin, even
beyond those dark, under-eye circles, explains Dennis Gross MD, the creator of Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare.
"When the skin is getting less than optimum fuel, it can become dull
and pale," he says. "Lack of sleep can be so stressful that it actually
causes our bodies, including our skin, to generate free radicals."
4. Using cotton pillowcases
Persistently pressing your face into a pillow (especially if you are
getting your eight hours) can cause trauma to your skin, including
permanent creases as our collagen breaks down. Gross suggests swapping
out your cotton pillow for satin or silk as they cause less friction.
Also, pillowcases accumulate a buildup of residue, so if you're
acne-prone you should try to wash your sheets once a week.
5. Talking on the phone too much
No, we would never say you can't talk on the phone — but speaker phone
may be a better option. Your cell gathers bacteria on its surface, so
while it's important to clean it often, it's actually the pressure on
your face (from any object) that traps oil in and causes zits.
6. Going to bed with your makeup on
Gross says one of the biggest mistakes women make is not properly
cleansing and removing makeup at night. This clogs oil glands and
impacts your makeup into your pores, which makes them appear larger.
When your collagen levels decline as you get older, your pores will not
snap back after becoming enlarged. Additionally, leftover makeup can
lead to inflammation, which can generate free radicals and lead to
breakouts.
7. Using too many products
We all have our beauty routine, or are trying to find the right one. But
you may be using too many active products at once, tipping the scales
toward irritation rather than being beneficial. "If your skin has become
sensitive, red, or flaky, chances are you're overdoing it," says
Barron. He suggests alternating a soothing product every other day with
your peels, retinoids, and active serums.
8. Applying products out of order
One of the keys to getting the maximum benefit from your skincare
regimen is to apply products from thin to thick consistency after you
cleanse, i.e. toner, serum, cream. Heavier products can block
lighter-weight ones from penetrating the skin and doing their job, says
Gross.
9. Popping pimples
When a dermatologist drains a pimple, he or she will apply downward
pressure perpendicularly to the skin's surface, explains Gross. But when
people try to do it themselves, they usually squeeze from the side,
which causes the infection to go deeper — a major backfire that can
permanently enlarge pores. "However tempting it may be to pop a pimple,
try to resist," says Gross. "If the temptation is too much, try washing
your face with a clean washcloth. If the pimple is ready to 'pop,' this
is all the pressure needed to drain it."
That's The Buzz!
XOXO
QB