If you start a good skin care routine early on, you can keep your skin beautiful and blemish free for years to come. Poor skin care practices leave you more prone to acne and premature signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. Avoid smoking as part of caring for your skin. According to the Mayo Clinic, smoking causes the breakdown of collagen and elastin. You should also avoid exposing your skin to harsh chemicals and soaps that can be drying and damaging.
Step 1
Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Spending too much time washing your face can irritate it and dry it out. In the morning and at night before bed, wash your face with a cleanser labeled oil free and noncomedogenic to remove makeup and skin care products.
Step 2
Wear sunscreen daily. Sun exposure can not only increase your chance of skin cancer but also cause wrinkles, freckles and age spots. Wear protective clothing items, such as sunglasses and hats, and apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. Reapply the sunscreen every 30 minutes that you are out in the sun.
Step 3
Take short, lukewarm showers. Long, hot showers can dry out the skin by removing the protective oils from the surface. Keep moisture in the skin by patting it dry and applying a moisturizer while the skin is still damp.
Step 4
Keep irritants away from the skin. Don't touch your face and keep your hair pulled back to keep oil from clogging the pores. Wear lightweight cotton clothing to avoid irritating the skin and exposing it to dirt and oil.
Step 5
Choose oil-free makeup and skin care products. Opt for mineral-based powder and foundations that won't clog the pores and lead to breakouts.
Tips and Warnings
- Eat a well-balanced diet and drink plenty of water to keep your skin healthy. Eat mostly fruits, whole grains and vegetables, and drink eight glasses of water per day.
Things You'll Need
- Gentle cleanser
- Sunscreen
- Moisturizer
- Oil-free makeup
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