Damage you don’t know you’re doing to your skin…

A while back we talked about damage you didn’t know you were doing to your hair. So now I bring you the sequel – damage you don’t know you were doing to your skin. Take notes people!

Falling asleep with make-up on:
Whilst some of us think it’s okay to have a big night out and then fall asleep in our make-up hoping we will still look like sleeping beauty the next day… IT’S NOT! Falling asleep with your makeup on can lead to bacteria infections, clogged pores, and more pimples. Not to mention the germs and stains you will have on your crisp white 1000 thread pillowcases! If you’re anything like me and your hand-eye coordination is a little off after a few vodkas, keep a pair of make-up wipes on your bedside table so they are in reach when you hop into bed.

Popping pimples:
This one is pretty self-explanatory, DO NOT POP YOUR PIMPLES! Picking and popping the surface of your skin will only cause more dirt to enter your pores, and push more bacteria deeper into the follicle. Don’t also be fooled by thinking that releasing pus means you are getting rid of the bacteria – as it can still build up underneath the skin and cause more blemishes. Popping pimples can also cause more scarring, so try to follow a ‘no pop policy’.

Shower power:
Whilst it’s an amazing feeling to put our face under the showerhead – the pressure from running hot water on your face is doing you more harm than good. This can burst tiny blood vessels and cause broken capillaries on your face. So in saying this, it’s best to stick to splashing hot water on your face with your hands.

Not getting enough sleep:
Getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep a night will keep skin looking refreshed, rejuvenated and avoid dark circles under your eyes.

Not changing your sheets enough:
When we sleep we shed dead skin – so the thought of rolling around in your own dead skin should be enough to put you off using the same sheets for weeks on end. Change them once a week to avoid bacteria building up. According to beauty guru Zoe Foster, it’s also wise to invest in a silk pillowcase if you want to avoid wrinkles.

Over exfoliating:
Over exfoliating can strip your skin of its necessary oils it needs to maintain your natural glow, and exhaust skin cells. Exfoliate your skin gently once to three times a week (depending on your skin type) to keep it healthy.

Not cleaning your brushes:
Just like your hair, clean your brushes often with shampoo to get rid of all the gunk that can build up after extended use.

Stopping at your chin:
You see those models and celebrities with an amazing chest? Their décolletage is just as important as their face when it comes to their daily routine. A good beauty regime should involve cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising all the way down to your chest.

Not wearing sunscreen:
Invest in a daily moisturiser that has an SPF of at least 15 to ensure you are getting the right sun protection throughout the day, otherwise apply sunscreen before your moisturiser. Also separate your day cream from your night cream by investing in a hydrating serum for the night, and keep the SPF for daytime.

Not wearing eye cream:
Whilst some of us might not look like we need eye cream, early prevention now will reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles in the future.

Using your fingers:
I know that a lot of make-up artists have their own personal preference when it comes to using their fingers or a brush to apply foundation, so I’m not going to argue. However I do believe you should not use your finger to apply concealer, as the oil from your skin could potentially spread an infection – especially if you’re covering a pimple.

Over exposure in the sun:
This is why fake tan was invented ladies! Whilst sunbaking might keep us looking tanned and glowing in the meantime, it’s only causing further skin damage in the long run, and not to mention the growing skin cancer rate in Australia! To be quite frank, I would personally prefer to look like a pale white girl then die.