5 Things To Avoid for Hydrated Skin
If you want bouncy, soft jelly skin all year round then the number one thing to keep in mind is your skin's hydration levels.
Dehydrated skin is no-one's idea of skin goals - it's tight, dry, and uncomfortable. However unlike dry skin, which is a skin type, dehydration is a skin condition caused by external factors. That means there's plenty you can do to avoid and prevent it.
Let's take a look at what causes it and some tips for what to do instead.
5 Things to Avoid for Hydrated Skin: Extreme Temperatures
The temperature outside (and inside!) can impact more than just your outfit and mood. It also affects your skin. You'll find your skin is most susceptible during the change of seasons (due to the high variance in daily temperatures) and the extremes of summer and winter. Even more so if you have a skin condition like rosacea, which can be triggered by heat and wind.
What to do instead? Take measures to protect your skin from extreme temperatures.
In the same way you pull out your big coats and throw on a few extra layers during winter, do the same for your skin by adding in a rich, creamy serum and thicker moisturiser.
In summer, opt for lighterweight gel textures and use lighter layers. A nourishing essence toner and sleeping mask are perfect.
5 Things to Avoid for Hydrated Skin: Overdoing Artificial Air
Whether you’re in the midst of winter with the heater blaring, or the sweaty depths of summer in air-con, if you're relying on artificial air to keep you warm & cool it can contribute to dehydrated skin.
The AC tends to zap moisture that may have been in the air, which can cause dry, dull skin over time. Similarly, artificial heating causes skin to loose its natural oils, which leads to dryness, cracking and irritation.
If you are finding yourself battling against artificial air remember to take a break for some fresh air whenever possible, and up the level of oil in your skincare routine. If the idea of using a face oil is too much for you, try a moisturiser that's rich in oils instead.
5 Things to Avoid for Hydrated Skin: Not Drinking Enough Water
We know, we know... if you spend any time on the internet you'd be forgiven for thinking that the root of all skin problems is not drinking enough water.
And while we wish it were that simple, it's true that skipping out on hydration isn't exactly great for skin either.
If you’re slacking on the ol’ hydration, your skin is going to start showing it in the form of tightness, flaking, even increased fine lines.
That means it’s a good idea to grab your emotional support water bottle and drink up!
5 Things to Avoid for Hydrated Skin: The Wrong Routine
Believe it or not, using the wrong skin care products for your skin type or misusing them can lead to dehydration as well.
If you’re not cleansing after wearing makeup or sunscreen and are skipping the exfoliation, you’re going to be left with build-up on your skin.
Worse, the products you use afterwards won’t be able to penetrate and hydrate your skin either, which can further contribute to dehydration.
What to do instead?
Get a good cleansing and exfoliating routine down pat and don't forget to incorporate products like retinol, which can help speed up the skin renewal cycle.
5 Things to Avoid for Hydrated Skin: Scalding Showers
Don't hate us. We love a hot shower as much as the next person but scorching hot water is one of the worst things you can do for your skin.
Particularly when it comes to washing your face, make sure you stick to lukewarm water. Better yet? Avoid the temptation of cleansing your face in the shower altogether. It's not as fun to use scorching hot water coming out of the tap (ask us how we know)