11 Common Skin Care Mistakes You May Not Realize You’re Making

  • Poor dietary choices can lead to skin issues.
  • Inadequate sun protection accelerates skin aging and damage.
  • Neglecting hydration affects skin health significantly.
  • Overusing skin products may disrupt the skin barrier.
  • Stress management is critical for maintaining healthy skin.

Understanding how daily habits affect skin health is crucial. Many might think that external products are the key to achieving flawless skin, yet significant internal and lifestyle factors play overriding roles. Below, these habits will be explored in detail, providing insights on how they contribute to skin damage without individuals realizing it.

Poor dietary choices can lead to skin issues. The connection between diet and skin health cannot be overstated. Consuming high-sugar and processed foods can trigger insulin spikes, which in turn exacerbates conditions like acne. When insulin levels rise, it encourages oil production, leading to clogged pores. Research has shown that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins can enhance skin vitality. For instance, fruits and vegetables are loaded with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress which damages skin. On the other hand, a diet with excessive refined carbs and sugars may promote inflammation, manifesting as breakouts or dullness. It becomes essential to make conscious choices about nutrition. Incorporating foods rich in fibers, vitamins, and healthy fats will not only nourish the body but also the skin.

Another common oversight is inadequate sun protection. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from sun exposure can cause both immediate and long-term damage to the skin. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate the skin. Without proper protection, collagen and elastin—the critical proteins providing skin structure—can degrade leading to premature aging. Skipping sunscreen can result in sunburns, which manifest as redness, pain, and peeling. Over time, cumulative sun damage can result in skin cancers and photoaging, characterized by sagging, wrinkles, and pigmentation. Thus, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 should be a daily essential. Regular reapplication, especially during prolonged outdoor activities, is vital.

Neglecting hydration affects skin health significantly. The skin’s hydration levels are crucial for maintaining its barrier function. Dehydrated skin can appear dull, flaky, and more prone to irritation. Water intake plays a significant role in how skin behaves; it helps maintain elasticity and allows the skin to function effectively. In addition to direct water consumption, foods with high water content, such as cucumbers and oranges, can contribute to overall hydration. When the body is well-hydrated, skin cells can turnover more effectively, effectively eliminating dead skin and promoting a healthier complexion. Yet, many overlook the simple act of drinking adequate water daily, thus compromising skin quality.

Overusing skin products may disrupt the skin barrier. In pursuit of clearer skin, individuals often fall into the trap of trying multiple products simultaneously. This can lead to irritation and damage, especially when potent ingredients like retinoids or acids are used without appropriate guidance. The skin barrier, essential for protecting against environmental pollutants and pathogens, can weaken under the assault of excessive products. Signs of a damaged barrier can include redness, peeling, and increased breakouts. Establishing a simplified skincare routine that focuses on essential active ingredients while monitoring skin reactions is advisable. This allows for the preservation of the skin’s natural oils which provide essential moisture.

Stress management is critical for maintaining healthy skin. The connection between stress and skin conditions is widely acknowledged, with stress leading to changes in hormone levels that can trigger conditions such as eczema, rosacea, and acne. When the body experiences stress, it produces cortisol, increasing oil production and inflammation. This community feedback loop can worsen existing skin conditions and create new issues. Engaging in regular practices like mindfulness, exercise, and adequate sleep can mitigate stress effects. Activities such as yoga or meditation may not only improve mental health but also contribute to clearer skin.

On another note, sleeping with makeup can have harmful consequences for skin health. It is essential to give the skin a chance to repair itself overnight. When makeup isn’t removed, it can clog pores and foster an environment conducive to growth of bacteria. This can lead to breakouts and irritation. Moreover, makeup residues can interfere with the skin’s natural processes of renewal. Ideally, a simple yet effective cleansing routine before bed can prevent these issues, allowing the skin to breathe and regenerate during sleep.

Another common mistake is neglecting to exfoliate properly. Exfoliation plays a vital role in maintaining radiant skin. When dead skin cells accumulate, they can cause the skin to feel rough and look lifeless. Nevertheless, over-exfoliating can strip the skin of essential moisture and compromise its barrier. Proper exfoliation frequency varies according to skin type. Generally, using gentle exfoliants, such as alpha-hydroxy acids or beta-hydroxy acids, one to three times a week can promote cell turnover without undue harm. This balance is key to revealing fresh skin and avoiding issues such as sensitivity or breakouts.

Additionally, not considering seasonal changes can lead to skin issues. Skin responds dynamically to environmental fluctuations, including changes in humidity and temperature. During winter months, for instance, indoor heating can deplete skin moisture, while hot summer sun can lead to increased oil production. Adapting skincare routines to reflect these seasonal changes can enhance overall skin health. Incorporating thicker creams during dry months and lightweight moisturizers in the summer allows for better regulation of skin hydration. Recognizing when to adjust product use is an often-overlooked yet viable approach to maintaining healthy skin.

Lastly, ignoring the importance of supplements can also contribute to skin ailments. While a balanced diet should provide the necessary nutrients for optimal skin health, sometimes diet alone is insufficient. Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins C and E, can complement dietary efforts. These nutrients play roles in skin repair and protection. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplements, as individual needs may vary.

In addressing these common mistakes, it becomes evident that many habits interfere with skin health without people even realizing it. From dietary choices to skincare routines, a host of factors plays a role. By making informed choices regarding diet, sun protection, hydration, skincare products, stress management, and seasonal adaptations, anyone can foster improved skin health. Taking these proactive steps can lead to a healthier, more vibrant complexion, reflecting overall well-being and lifestyle balance.

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Source Description
Never put this on your face! Even natural ingredients can cause skin problems if misused. In this video, I’ll share 11 things you should never put on your face. To achieve healthy, clear skin, avoid these common skincare mistakes.

Watch these next for more tips on healthy skin and healthy hair:
▶️ https://youtu.be/4x3Tk0JiiGc
▶️ https://youtu.be/Hx5vxhx6fsU
▶️ https://youtu.be/l_iJt5AIoCI

0:00 Introduction: Skincare mistakes to avoid
0:20 Skin damage explained
1:28 What not to use on your face
2:31 Lemon juice and sun exposure
5:25 Rubbing alcohol and bad skin products
7:07 Topical steroids and skincare mistakes
8:30 More skincare do’s and don’ts

Your skin is the largest organ in your body. On top of the skin, especially the face, is the acid mantle. This acidic, protective barrier houses millions of microbes that protect you.

Putting the wrong products on your skin can negatively affect this environment, leading to redness, rashes, acne, dry skin, and other skin problems.

Avoid the following 11 products that ruin your skin!

1. Apple cider vinegar
ACV is too acidic for the skin. It can cause irritation and redness. If you want to use it on your skin, dilute one teaspoon into 8 ounces of water.

2. Lemon juice
Don’t put lemon juice on your face or hair! It contains a phytochemical that can cause problems when you’re exposed to sunlight.

3. Essential oils
Some essential oils, such as cedarwood and tea tree oil, are simply too strong for the skin.

4. Bergamot
Combining bergamot with sun exposure can cause skin inflammation.

5. Baking soda
With a pH of 9, baking soda is too alkaline for the skin. It can damage the acidic environment, compromising the beneficial microbes on the skin.

6. Toothpaste
Harsh ingredients like peroxide and fluoride should not be used on your skin.

7. Rubbing alcohol
Alcohol kills the microbes on the surface of your skin. This can allow the overgrowth of unfriendly bacteria. Many creams and lotions contain alcohol, so be sure to check the ingredients of your skin care products.

8. Hydrogen peroxide
This is effective for removing stains on the teeth and for cleaning, but it’s not suitable for use on the face.

9. Hair dye
Hair dye used for your eyebrows and eyelashes can be very dangerous to your eyes.

10. Topical steroids
Redness, irritation, and flakiness are often treated with topical steroids without second thought. Topical steroids stop the growth of skin cells and the production of collagen.

11. Exfoliating scrubs
Frequent use of exfoliating scrubs can scrub off the microbiome of your face.

It’s beneficial to get a filter for your shower head to reduce skin exposure to chlorine and fluoride. Opt for makeup that is free of chemicals and fragrance!

Dr. Eric Berg DC Bio:
Dr. Berg, age 60, is a chiropractor who specializes in Healthy Ketosis & Intermittent Fasting. He is the Director of Dr. Berg Nutritionals and author of the best-selling book The Healthy Keto Plan. He no longer practices, but focuses on health education through social media.

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Disclaimer:
Dr. Eric Berg received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1988. His use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to himself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Berg is a licensed chiropractor in Virginia, California, and Louisiana, but he no longer practices chiropractic in any state and does not see patients, so he can focus on educating people as a full-time activity, yet he maintains an active license. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose, and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, prescription, or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Berg and you. You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

#health #keto #ketodiet #weightloss #ketolifestyle #intermittentfasting #lowcarb

Thanks for watching! I hope these skincare tips help you achieve healthy, clear skin. I’ll see you in the next video.