Each of us engages in some sort of beauty routine daily to upkeep our hygiene and appearance. But everyone is going to have a different routine as they may have different focuses and beauty issues (e.g., acne) to combat. In the end, many of us do similar things to maintain our beauty from wearing makeup to using wrinkle cream.
Unfortunately, however, it’s not uncommon that we receive false beauty information, some of which is contradicting. That said, let’s discuss what beauty mistakes are the most common and how we can dodge them.
15. Relying only on lotion for dry skin
When we have dry, flaky skin, our first reaction is to apply a thick layer of lotion. At times, it seems that lotion instantly hydrates our dry skin…temporarily. But if dead skin cells are to blame for dry skin, proper exfoliation is key. If skin is constantly dry, this calls for hydrating the skin from the inside out by drinking more water.
There are many health benefits of drinking water for the skin. According to one study, the skin is made up of 30-percent water and is vital for upkeeping the skin’s appearance. Being dehydrated reduces elasticity, resilience, and plumpness of the skin. If you can’t remember to drink enough water, make a chart to keep track of your intake.
14. Washing your face too often
A major misconception is that if you have oily skin, you need to wash your face more often. While it is true that some may need to wash their face more often than others, be careful with this. Washing your face more than twice a day can strip the natural oils of the face. In turn, dryness and premature aging may be results.
Instead, stick to washing your face once in the morning and once before bed. Never over-scrub the face to use large amounts of soap. Additionally, never use soaps that are not designed for the face. Soap that is meant for the hands, for instance, is not intended for the delicacy of the face.
13. Brushing hair when it’s wet
Many brush their hair right after washing it, especially those with very long, curly hair that’s hard to tame. But doing so is not a good idea. When wet, the hair is at a more fragile state and is more prone to breakage. That said, avoid brushing wet hair. You may brush damp hair or use a large-toothed comb on wet hair if you must.
12. Not getting enough sleep
Lack of sleep can contribute to premature aging, and as many of us know, bags under the eyes. Of course, sleep deprivation can also cause moodiness. When we don’t feel our best, we don’t look our best. Additionally, research found that apart from lack of sleep, certain sleeping positions may contribute to the early formation of wrinkles.
Everyone requires different amounts of sleep each night. The average adult may require around eight hours of sleep on average. If you can, try sleeping without an alarm to ensure you get the proper sleep you body requires.
11. Applying mascara on the lower lashes
The primary goal of mascara is to emphasize the lashes to make the eyes appear larger and less fatigued. However, some apply mascara to both the top and bottom lashes. The problem with applying mascara on the bottom is that it makes the eyes look droopier and darker. It tends to contradict the enhancement of mascara on the top lashes.
To look your best, apply mascara just on your top lashes. Only apply one or two coats to ensure your lashes don’t end up chunky.
10. Frequently using harsh tooth whiteners
Using damaging tooth whiteners can cause tooth sensitivity as it can break down the tooth enamel. Instead, try opting for home remedies. Every one to two weeks, apply a pea-sized amount of baking soda on the teeth with a toothbrush. Another great home remedy is to use activated charcoal or charcoal toothpaste to whiten the teeth quickly.
9. Using the same moisturizer(s) year ‘round
As the seasons change, your skin will have different needs. Maybe your skin is more hydrated in the summer and drier in the winter. Maybe the reverse is true. That said, switch out your moisturizers to fit the current state of your skin. Being versatile is key. If you suffer from extraordinarily dry skin, you may require an additional product.
8. Not eating enough healthy foods
It’s not enough just to work on the outside of your body. Also work on the inside. When your insides are healthy, this can translate into your appearance. But lacking nutrients, you won’t be giving your hair, skin, nails, and teeth what they need to look their best. Eating too many greasy, fatty, sugary foods will only contribute to acne and other issues.
As much as you can, try to eat healthier and eliminate bad foods and alcohol. If you suffer from vitamin deficiencies, get this sorted with supplements or an increased intake of certain foods.
7. Applying new polish on the nails before removing chipped polish
While many will remove their current manicure or pedicure before applying new polish, not everyone does. Applying polish over chipped polish, even the same color, will make your manicure or pedicure look thick, uneven, and choppy. Always remove your old polish before applying a new coat.
As well as this, try to let your nails breathe for a bit between polishes or even fake nails. Otherwise, bacteria and fungus may nestle within the regions between the polish or fake nails and your real nails. Nail discoloration, delayed nail growth, and brittle nails are also common.
Check out dermatologists’ recommendations for healthier nails available from the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
6. Failing to wear sunscreen daily – even in the winter
Sunscreen is vital to ensure the skin is safer from the harmful effects of the sun. Even if you don’t spend much time in the sun, its damaging rays can cause leathery, wrinkled skin. Apply sunscreen daily – year ‘round – especially to the delicate, wrinkle-prone face if you don’t already wear SPF makeup.
5. Not using primer before applying makeup
If you wish for your makeup to go on smoother and last longer, you’ll need a good face primer. Not using primer, however, can show fine lines and wrinkles under the makeup. When you pick the right primer, you may temporarily help fade those pesky lines and wrinkles. Try using primer every time before using foundation.
4. Applying products in the wrong order
Whether applying makeup or different skin care products, applying in the wrong order is never a good thing. When applying products, use the thinner items first, then the thicker products on top. Doing this can ensure the products you apply are more effective. Remember your routine for which to apply first and last.
3. Using expired makeup
If your makeup is expired – whether it’s foundation or lipstick – toss it. Using it past its expiration date may cause breakouts or other issues as there is bacteria present in older products. Mount Nittany Health has a helpful list for the maximum lengths of time to keep different makeup products.
2. Not using deep conditioning treatments on the hair
Many use both shampoo and conditioner to wash their hair. However, less individuals also use deep conditioners. This is not the same as conditioner. Rather than being washed right away, deep conditioners are left on the hair/scalp for a bit before being washed out. These treatments can leave the hair softer and shinier than conditioner.
In fact, one study discovered that coconut oil and other similar oils can assist with dry, damaged locks and scalp dandruff. Coconut oil may be applied on freshly-washed, wet hair and left on for 10 to 15 minutes once a week. You can also find deep conditioner products that contain coconut oil.
1. Failing to apply wrinkle cream to the neck and chest
When it comes to wrinkles, we tend to focus on the face. Smile lines, crow’s feet, forehead lines, and bags under the eyes tend to be our most frequent concerns. But wait, what about neck and chest wrinkles? These too are common issues, especially in women.
To reduce the appearance of neck and chest wrinkles, find a quality anti-wrinkle product safe for these regions. When applying to areas of the face, be sure to also apply your cream to the neck and chest area.
There’s no shame in engaging in beauty mistakes as these can always be avoided from here on out. After all, we frequently come across beauty tips that are not the healthiest or most logical. But with proper research, we can decide what to do or avoid to obtain beautiful hair, skin, nails, and teeth. Do what’s right, and you will get positive results.