Skin Care for Back to School
It’s August and time to think about preparations for back to school. School supplies, new wardrobes, and dorm essentials are definitely on the top of the to-do-list, but unfortunately we tend to forget some of the most important elements of our daily routine including skin care. Three important factors need to be considered this month for a successful school year.
First, consider making changes to your skin care needs that have probably been neglected over the summer. Cleansing your face twice a day is important in removing impurities and excessive oils that block pores and cause breakouts. Never go to bed without washing your face, no matter how tired you are! Makeup can clog pores and trap bacteria increasing the likelihood of waking up with a few unwanted pimples. Also, choose an effective cleanser for your skin type that won’t strip your face of essential oils that are needed for healthy skin.
Once your face is clean, consider investing in a good exfoliator and mask. Over 85% of young adults and teens suffer from acne problems. By using a gentle exfoliator twice a week, you will help eliminate dead skin cells that cover pores filled with bacteria that eventually cause blemishes. Another effective product to use in your skin care routine is a clay mask, which can effectively draw out impurities in the skin. The clay mask can also be used as a spot treatment for pimples by applying a small amount directly on the pimple. By leaving the clay mask on overnight, you can reduce the inflamed area and eliminate the blemish. Avoid popping the pimples since this only spreads the bacteria. Use a green based concealer to reduce the appearance of redness while treating the infected area with acne solutions.
Next, summer is ending and our time spent outdoors is decreasing. However, don’t forget to still apply a daily sunscreen along with an appropriate moisturizer. This does not have to complicate your morning routine during a busy school year! Choose a light weight moisturizer that already contains a sunscreen. Despite what you might think, moisturizers are extremely important and will not make your skin feel oily. Choose the correct moisturizer for your skin type and you will experience hydrated skin with reduced pores and fewer blemishes.
Along with a simple but effective skin care routine, pay attention to what you eat. Summer is over and a healthy diet is extremely important for a successful year. You can spend a lot of time and money on products designed to enhance your skin on the outside, but if you are not focusing on what your body is ingesting, you will not reap the full benefits of the purchased products. A healthy glow starts from the inside! Skip the oily, sugary, fatty foods, and refined carbs. Instead eat more fruits, vegetables, greens, and lean proteins. Also, avoid an excessive amount of caffeine and sodas. Find a way to drink lots of water during the day to keep your skin looking hydrated and allow your body to flush out all the toxins that can seep through your pores.
Finally, the lazy days of summer are giving way to the stressful months of school. Exercising is a great way to alleviate stress and deplete unwanted toxins. Find time to relax in a fragrant bubble bath, and get a good night’s rest with a soothing eye mask. Reducing stress will enable you to maintain great looking skin and a healthy glow!
Have a great school year!
Categories: skin care