When it comes to skincare, it's not all as simple as it seems. There are some common skincare mistakes we're making, when in reality, they're so basic they're incredibly easy to fix.
We have identified 3 of the worst offenders so you can kick off your New Year with one seriously perfect (and polished) routine.
You don't have acne if you have a couple of spots
Okay, so one spot appears on your chin and you automatically run to purchase a whole acid-based routine to clear it up. Not only is this super damaging to your skin, it's just plain wrong.
Just because you have a couple of breakouts on your face, it doesn't mean you have acne. In fact, using acne-targeted products may cause you to break out even more because they're too strong for your skin.
If you have one spot, have a think about why it could be. Had a few late nights recently? Indulged in a few too many chocolates over the festive period? Add more water, fruits and vegetables into your routine, get a good night's sleep and you should see those spots clear up in no time.
If you have played all your cards right and you're still breaking out, it could be hormonal fluctuations. Pop a little of the Origins Super Remover, which contains pore clearing ingredients to take that spot right down.
Take it slow with exfoliation
New Year hits, and we automatically want to reinvent ourselves, our wardrobes and our skincare routines. That however doesn't mean scrubbing your skin to within an inch of its life.
It can be easy to read all about acids and physical exfoliants which promise brighter and more clarified skin, and introduce them all straight away 7 days a week.
Have a think about what your skin needs though. Is it sensitive? Is it acne-prone? Do you have pigmentation you want to correct? Get to know your skin and you'll choose the right product. Once you've done that? Introduce it slowly.
Let your skin adjust to the change in its routine and it will be healthier and happier for it. Our favourite exfoliant to introduce to any skin type is Pixi's Glow Tonic. Loved my supermodels and skincare heroine Caroline Hirons, it contains a gentle blend of acids to slough away dead cells while a nourishing blend of ingredients soothe and calm. It's literal perfection.
Just remove the makeup before the gym
We've all done it, and it''s one of the worst skincare mistakes you can make. Not removing your makeup before you hit the gym is just asking for trouble.
Now, we know. If you have been breaking out or have a skin condition such as eczema you might not want to go barefaced, but honestly just embrace it. You're beautiful as you are, and you're not going to do your skin any favours by covering it up as you sweat and fall off a treadmill.
Take all makeup off with a gentle makeup remover, let it breathe, and watch as it slowly starts to become healthier and more radiant. We love the Burt's Bees Sensitive Facial Wipes, which are easy to carry and won't irritate delicate skin.
Don't forget, you also need to do a deep cleanse after working out with an actual liquid cleanser; don't just rely on those facial wipes.
