Achieving a youthful glow is a dream for most of us. Even though you might be using the best anti-aging creams, a few small mistakes in your skincare routine could be sabotaging the whole process, leading to premature wrinkles and fine lines. Shocking, right? The key to attaining that smoother, firmer-looking skin is to pay attention to the details. Here are 5 skincare mistakes that you need to stop doing now!

5 skincare mistakes that cause premature aging

Stepping out without sunscreen
The most overlooked anti-aging skincare procedure is applying sunscreen before you step out of the house. The damage caused by the harsh UV rays of the sun and free radicals is the primary reason for premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and even for every other severe skin disease. So, always slather sunscreen with SPF 30 or above, and reapply it every two hours or more, especially if you engage in swimming and other outdoor activities. In addition, use a hat whenever you step out of the house because it can offer an extra layer of protection against the scorching heat and UV rays.

Sleeping with makeup on
Sleeping with makeup is a very bad habit as it not only clogs your pores and results in acne breakouts and skin irritation but also expedites the aging process. The chemicals in makeup products hamper the skin’s natural repair process and makes it look dull, rough, and far from plump and luminous. So, thoroughly cleanse your face and indulge in overnight deep moisturizing before climbing into bed to enjoy your beauty sleep. Also, always read the ingredients used in your cleanser to make sure that they don’t trigger acne, redness, or irritation.

Not drinking enough water
It’s absolutely true when they say water is essential for your overall well-being. When you moisturize your face, you hydrate it from the outside and not the inside. Just like every other organ of your body, your skin also needs to stay hydrated to function properly. Dehydration severely affects the skin’s elasticity and makes it prone to premature aging. As per many health experts, healthy skin has around 10-15% water, and lack of hydration causes these levels to drop down quickly. So, you must consume at least 6-8 glasses of water every day to rejuvenate your face and keep the aging signs at bay. Also, it has been witnessed that an appropriate amount of hydration reduces your chances of developing any kind of skin disease. So, stay hydrated!

Over-exfoliating your skin
Scrubbing off the dead, dull cells from the face is extremely necessary to reveal smoother and even-toned skin. Timely exfoliation prevents clogging of the pores, acne, inflammation, and premature aging. However, as they say – excess of everything is bad, and over-exfoliation is no different. Using an exfoliator more than needed can cause your skin to dry, disrupt its ability to repair, and result in wrinkles and fine lines. So, exfoliate only once, or at max twice a week. Moreover, don’t use harsh exfoliating products or agents as they harm the natural barrier that could result in skin disease.

Poor food habits
Maintaining a radiant glow is not just about using exceptional quality topical skincare products. Feeding your body with all the superfoods as well as avoiding certain food items is just as crucial. For instance, excess sugar consumption is a common reason for cell damage and premature signs of aging. A large amount of sugar consumption is known to increase the production of enzymes that block collagen and elastin production, resulting in a face that lacks luster. Similarly, it is advised to limit the consumption of deep-fried food items as they can cause inflammation and sagging. Instead, switch to healthier alternatives and modify your lifestyle.

Often, people reiterate the use of anti-aging products to prevent the signs of premature aging but that’s not all. The secret to nourished skin lies in finding, acknowledging, and avoiding the small mistakes in the skincare or healthcare regimen. The above-mentioned are some of the common mistakes that we commit regularly and must stop immediately. Only then can you achieve that healthy glow from within.