The 7 Deadly Skin Sins

Winter can be hard on our skin, but what can be even worse is a pattern of neglect. Skin damage can be insidious; you don’t even notice that damage is being done until the results of poor skin care are visible on your face.

Keeping your skin looking its best doesn’t require vast amounts of time or money, but what it does require is a little bit of both. With the start of the New Year, try to resolve to not fall victim to any of the following skin sins.

1. Not cleansing skin thoroughly every day.

You’re guilty of this skin sin if you go to bed without removing your makeup. If you’re a guy, you’re guilty if you go to bed without washing your face. Dirt, grime and oil left on the skin seeps into pores, eventually making them large and unsightly. Clean your face every day, at least once a day. Your pores will thank you.

2. Using cheap products filled with chemicals and fillers.

You can spend a lot on fancy skin products, but you don’t have to. Instead, look for quality products at a reasonable price. But don’t fall for the off-brand, cut-rate stuff in the dollar bin. You get what you pay for, and that stuff is worthless.

3. Failing to use sunscreen every day.

Can you hear your dermatologist cheering? This is a biggie. Most skin damage is a result of sun exposure. Damage builds up over time, but the effects of the sun are premature aging and wrinkles, liver spots, a leathery texture, excessive freckling and loss of elasticity. Use sunscreen every day. SPF 30 is ideal.

4. Picking, peeling or pulling on your skin.

The tendency to pick can be a very hard habit to break, but the end results of picking, peeling or pulling on skin can be permanent damage and scarring. Find something else to do with your hands.

5. Tanning – indoors or out.

Want to speed up the aging process and look as old as possible? Sign up for an indoor tanning membership.

6. Not seeing a dermatologist or skin care professional regularly.

Regardless of your age or specific skin issues, a dermatologist can help identify problems, treat them effectively, and help you get on a skin care regimen that will keep your skin looking radiant and healthy.

7. Putting off skin care “until you need it.”

If you wait until you begin to notice signs of wear and tear, you will have missed the opportunity to prevent those signs of skin damage and premature aging. If you use quality products, have regular facials and maybe even get a light chemical peel now and then, you can dramatically improve the appearance of your skin.