Drink plenty of water It may sound simple but no matter how many times it’s suggested, for some of us it’s difficult to drink the eight glasses of water we’re recommended every day. It's very important to drink water and stay hydrated during the warmer weather. Not only is water essential to keeping the brain and body functioning normally, it is also incredibly good for your skin. Your skin is your largest organ and is made up of loads of cells, which are made up of water. If you don’t drink enough, your skin can become dry and flaky and dry skin is more prone to wrinkles. To encourage yourself to drink more, invest in a travel flask or drinks bottle that you can take with you on journeys, outings and even to work to make sure you’re filling up a larger receptacle than those thimble-sized plastic cups at the water cooler. I keep a little tally chart at work, marking off every glass I've drunk, I feel less guilty, the closer I get to 8!
Get a good night’s sleep Sleep is fantastic for your skin in a multitude of ways. Not only does your skin give itself the opportunity to repair itself when you are snoozing, but being well-rested actually often results in a less stressed, calmer persona. Stress can have all sorts of side effects and one of them is spots and blemishes, caused by the excess of cortisol produced in times of stress. Try lavender oil, calming audio books and no caffeine after 6pm to give you the best chance of a restful night. It's easier said than done, I know. Being employed, a parent and a blogger and reduce the amount of sleep you get but you should try and get a much sleep as possible. Turn off the laptop an hour earlier, have a nap during the day with your little person or take turns with your other half for a lie in.
Use sun protection every day – not just when you’re on holiday
If your job involves you sitting in an office all day, like me, you may think you’re safe from the harmful rays of the sun. Well, think again. Research has shown that sun damage can occur through UV rays creeping in the windows in the offices and cars. To ensure our skin is protected as best as we can, it is recommended that we use sun protection every day, whether it’s incorporated into your beauty products or something you add on top. Skin cancer is the most common cause of cancer in Britain, so it’s essential we do everything we can to keep the risk at a minimum. It also stops your skin aging prematurely from sun damage, after all, no one wants to look like a leather handbag!
Give up smoking and switch to a healthier alternative
Smoking is bad for your skin; it decreases the amount of oxygen traveling around your bloodstream, which causes wrinkles, and it also decreases the production of red blood cells, which can give your skin a pale, anaemic-looking hue as opposed to a healthy glow. If you’re not sure you can quit smoking cold turkey, electronic cigarettes are a great alternative. These allow you to continue satisfying your nicotine cravings (which prevent you from reaching for the real thing) whilst ridding you from the toxins and chemicals that damage your body.
Take your make up off properly
As handy and convenient as they are, face wipes or baby wipes alone often aren’t enough to contend with the make up we apply to our skin every day. Often, dirt and debris is just pushed around the surface of your face without being properly removed, which can clog pores and result in blemishes. To give your skin the opportunity to breathe clearly every night, use a proper cleanser and toner after you’ve given your face the once over with that face wipe. On the first day alone, you’ll really notice the amount of extra dirt that comes off onto that pad of cotton wool.
