BEAUTY TIPS
1- Protect Yourself from the Sun
Sun protection is a top priority in beauty and skincare practices. Constant sun exposure leads to early signs of aging, from dark spots to wrinkles. Worse, you can increase your risk of skin cancer from exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Wearing sunscreen is a must and a non-negotiable. Whenever I go out, whether the sun is bright or it’s grey out, I apply sunscreen to my face and neck. When the sun is out, I will reapply sunscreen before I go out. I am very sensitive to the sun and use one that offers 30 SPF to guarantee strong protection against UV rays.
2- Always Moisturize After Cleansing
Moisturizers provide the hydration that your skin needs to remain healthy and glowing. Every time you wash your face and body, you don’t just get rid of the dirt on your skin but also the natural oils that make your skin healthy.
Moisturizing immediately after cleansing traps the water on your skin rather than getting pulled in the air, only to disappear. Don’t completely dry your skin after washing to maximize the moisture your skin will get.
3- Drink a Lot of Water
Hydration applies to the inside and outside of the body. According to research, an increase in water intake can positively impact skin physiology, especially for people who drink less water than they should.
Drinking the appropriate amount of water helps to keep your body healthy. A healthy body easily reflects that outside through the condition of the skin. I love to have a full glass of water next to me when I am working, otherwise I completely forget to drink.
4- Gently Handle Your Skin
Be gentle when handling your skin. Some habits and routines can unknowingly damage your skin, so be actively conscious of what you do with it.
Limit your bath time and avoid hot baths to prevent stripping the natural oils from your skin. When drying your skin, pat it dry instead of rubbing the towel against it. When shaving, use shaving cream or lotion to protect your skin from the razor.
5- Give Yourself a Facial
Facial treatments can be pretty expensive at the medical spa or salon, and some people may be worried about the initial redness or breakouts associated with these types of treatments. Fortunately, you can give yourself a pampering “facial” at home without all of the same chemicals they use at the salon.
At home facial should remove dead skin with some form of exfoliation before massaging and moisturizing the face.
6- Never Use Too Many Products
Using too many products on your skin can do more harm than good. The layers of all the different products clog your pores, leading to issues like acne and skin irritation. You’re also not sure how the ingredients in the products will react to each other.
Choose your skincare and beauty products meticulously. Look into the ingredients of the products you’re planning to avoid chemical reactions between them.
7- Keep Your Hands Away From Your Face
Stop touching your face when it’s not necessary. If possible, touch your face only when doing your skincare routine or applying makeup.
I know it’s extremely hard, but don’t pop your pimples too. While it may seem satisfying, it can worsen your acne, cause infections, and leave unpleasant scars, especially if your hands are dirty.
8- Eat Healthy Meals
A healthier diet contributes to your overall health, including your skin. Maintain a healthy diet by eating nutritious meals rather than junk foods and sugary treats.
Add leafy vegetables and lean proteins to your regular meals. Whole grains and fresh fruits can also enrich your diet. You can also look into foods rich in omega-3, like salmon, tuna, and chia seeds, which claim to regulate skin oil production and help with acne breakouts.
Choose your skincare and beauty products meticulously. Look into the ingredients of the products you’re planning to avoid chemical reactions between them.
9- Exercise Regularly
Exercise increases the blood flow in the body. The increase in blood flow ensures that oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the skin cells, clearing the impurities in the skin. The activity also helps with anxiety and stress management, which can decrease the risk of skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Exercise at least 30 minutes every day to keep your blood pumping and your body healthy. From running to cycling, choose an activity you enjoy so it won’t have to feel like a task, and just have fun.
10- Daily Moisturize Day and Night
The skin needs regular hydration to prevent signs of premature aging like fine lines and wrinkles. For optimal results, moisturize your skin twice a day and the ideal time to do it is after a bath. The water removes the natural oils from your skin, and moisturizing can nourish the skin again.
Religiously apply moisturizer after you shower, or after you brush your teeth if you shower in the morning, and before going to bed. I like to make it a part of my evening routine, so you never forget it.
11- Exfoliate Moderately
Exfoliation refers to the removal of dead skin cells through scrubbing and peeling. The effects of exfoliation depend on your skin type. While I find it beneficial, I know many people who don’t like what it does to their skin. Often, this is because they don’t know what the best exfoliator is to use
Exfoliate the right way. For those with dry and sensitive skin, use a mild exfoliator and a washcloth to scrub your skin. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, you can use a stronger chemical exfoliator, just be careful to avoid parts of your skin with blemishes or scars.
Choose your skincare and beauty products meticulously. Look into the ingredients of the products you’re planning to avoid chemical reactions between them.
12- Pay Close Attention to Your Cleanser
Be meticulous when choosing your cleanser. Stay away from aggressive cleansers that can cause dryness and irritation. Washing your face strips the natural oil from the skin, and using the right cleanser is essential to avoiding possible damage to the skin.
If you want a cleanser that’s effective but won’t damage your skin, look for glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Use the cleanser two times a day, before going to bed and after you wake up.
13- Deep Condition Your Hair
Your hair is one of the first things people notice about you, and if you haven’t taken proper care of it, it might suffer. If your hair feels damaged, dry, brittle, or has lost its shine and bounce, it’s time for a deep conditioning treatment.
14- Change Your Hairstyle
This one doesn’t have to be drastic. A new hairstyle is a great way to change your look, especially if you want to completely change your image. Look at magazines or browse photos online for inspiration, especially if you’re unsure what hairstyle will suit you.
Once you find a hairstylist, show them the images for inspiration or try to explain what type of new look you’re going for. A talented stylist can work magic on you, depending on your desired dramatic change.
15- Mix Up Your Wardrobe
Does your current style make you feel confident, or are you questioning whether it’s time to reevaluate some of the choices in your closet? Whether you want to completely overhaul your wardrobe or select a few new pieces, this is a great way to give yourself a makeover, and it doesn’t have to be expensive.
Don’t hesitate to donate or give away clothes that no longer suit your style. Some places may even offer you a credit towards gently used or consignment clothes if you donate.
16- Give Yourself a Manicure
If you can’t afford a regular visit to the nail salon, set up a manicure station at home and do your own nails. You can do this simply by cutting, shaping, and polishing your nails. If you want to get fancier with it, invest in a set of manicure tools, treat your cuticles, and moisturize and soak your hands.
Tired of the colors you already have at home? Pick a nail color for your new outfit, or keep it simple with a neutral shade.
17- Start a Fitness Routine
Increasing movement and working out is a great way to make your body feel better, even if you don’t have a specific goal to lose weight or get ripped. Staying fit at 50 has never been easier, and more and more people over 50 are taking the plunge and moving their bodies like never before. Even walking regularly or lifting weights can improve not only your appearance but your overall mood and well-being. Yoga or stretching are both valid forms of movement if you can’t go to the gym or do a more involved workout.
Everyone is different when it comes to fitness. You should always consult a doctor or specialist about your needs and concerns before changing or adding a workout routine.
18- Change Your Eating Habits
Did you know that there are foods believed to improve not only your overall health but your skin and appearance? For example, some healthcare professionals believe that foods high in antioxidants and healthy fats can benefit the look and feel of your skin.
The foods you can eat to improve your skin may include fatty fish like tuna and salmon and fresh fruits and vegetables like strawberries, oranges, and broccoli. There are also some benefits associated with fermented foods like kefir and kimchi.
BEAUTY’S GOT A NEW ID,
it's time to redefine what it means to be beautiful
