Many people invest a lot of money in expensive skincare products and treatments to maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin. However, there are some habits that can significantly damage your skin and make you look older faster.

In this article, we’ll explore 30 habits that you should avoid in order to keep your skin looking its best.

Habits That Damage Skin

1. Smoking

Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your skin. It causes wrinkles, age spots, and can also lead to skin cancer.

If you’re a smoker, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, as well as the health of your skin.

2. Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol dehydrates your skin, making it look tired and dull. It can also lead to broken blood vessels and inflammation, which can cause premature aging. Limit your alcohol intake to maintain healthy-looking skin.

3. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Lack of sleep can lead to dark circles, puffiness, and dryness around the eyes. It can also have an impact on your overall complexion, making your skin look dull and tired. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night for optimal skin health.

4. Not Wearing Sunscreen

Exposure to UV rays can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature aging. Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outside for extended periods of time.

5. Not Removing Makeup Before Bed

Sleeping with makeup on can clog your pores, leading to breakouts and irritation. Always remove your makeup before bed, and follow up with a gentle cleanser to ensure that your skin is clean and clear of any impurities.

6. Eating a Diet High in Sugar

A diet high in sugar can lead to inflammation, which can cause premature aging. It can also accelerate collagen breakdown, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks for healthier-looking skin.

7. Not Drinking Enough Water

Dehydration can cause your skin to look dry, tight, and dull. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water each day to keep your skin moisturized and hydrated.

8. Using Harsh Skincare Products

Using skincare products that are too harsh for your skin can cause irritation, inflammation, and breakouts. Choose products that are gentle and specifically designed for your skin type to avoid damaging your skin.

9. Over-Exfoliating

Exfoliating is important for removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, but over-exfoliating can lead to irritation, redness, and sensitivity.

Limit your exfoliation to once or twice a week, and choose gentle products that won’t damage your skin.

10. Skipping Moisturizer

Moisturizer helps to keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness and flakiness. Skipping it can lead to premature aging, as well as a dull and tired-looking complexion. Choose a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type and use it daily.

11. Rubbing Your Eyes

Rubbing your eyes can cause friction, leading to irritation, puffiness, and wrinkles. If you have an itch, gently pat your eyes, rather than rubbing them, to avoid damaging the delicate skin around your eyes.

12. Using a Dirty Cell Phone

Your cell phone can harbor bacteria and germs, which can cause breakouts and irritation on your skin. Clean your phone regularly with an antibacterial wipe to keep it germ-free.

13. Not Changing Your Pillowcase Often Enough

Your pillowcase can collect dirt, oil, and bacteria, which can transfer to your skin while you sleep. Change your pillowcase at least once a week to keep your skin clean and clear.

14. Using Hot Water to Wash Your Face

Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Use lukewarm water to cleanse your face, and follow up with a moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.

15. Not Getting Enough Exercise

Exercise helps to increase blood flow and oxygen to your skin, which can improve its overall appearance. It also helps to reduce stress, which can have a positive impact on your skin.

16. Stressing Too Much

Chronic stress can lead to inflammation, premature aging, and skin problems like acne and eczema. Find ways to manage your stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

17. Not Getting Enough Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which can help to keep your skin firm and elastic. Make sure that you’re getting enough vitamin C in your diet through foods like citrus fruits, berries, and broccoli.

18. Not Using Eye Cream

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the skin on the rest of your face. Using an eye cream can help to keep it hydrated and prevent wrinkles and fine lines.

19. Applying Skincare Products in the Wrong Order

The order in which you apply your skincare products is important. Apply them in order of thickness, starting with the thinnest product and ending with the thickest product. This will ensure that each product is fully absorbed into your skin.

20. Not Getting Regular Facials

Facials can help to deep cleanse your skin, remove dead skin cells, and improve its overall health and appearance. Aim to get a facial every 4-6 weeks to maintain healthy-looking skin.

21. Using Tanning Beds

Tanning beds emit UV rays, which can cause sun damage and increase your risk of skin cancer. Instead of using a tanning bed, opt for a self-tanner or spray tan to achieve a healthy glow.

22. Not Getting Regular Skin Cancer Screenings

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Make sure to get regular skin cancer screenings to catch any potential issues early.

23. Using Dirty Makeup Brushes

Makeup brushes can collect bacteria and germs, which can lead to breakouts and irritation. Clean your brushes at least once a week with a gentle brush cleaner to keep them germ-free.

24. Not Using Hand Cream

The skin on your hands is often exposed to harsh elements, like wind and cold weather, which can lead to dryness and cracking. Use hand cream regularly to keep them moisturized and soft.

25. Not Protecting Your Skin in Cold Weather

Cold weather can cause your skin to become dry, red, and irritated. Wear gloves, scarves, and hats to protect your skin from the elements, and use a heavier moisturizer to combat dryness.

26. Using Body Soap on Your Face

Body soap can be too harsh for the delicate skin on your face. Use a gentle, facial-specific cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils.

27. Not Using a Humidifier

Dry air can lead to dry skin, especially during the winter months. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and keep your skin hydrated.

28. Not Wearing Protective Clothing in the Sun

Wearing protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and hats, can help to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This is especially important if you’re going to be outside for extended periods of time.

29. Not Using Retinoids

Retinoids are a type of vitamin A that can help to reduce wrinkles, sun damage, and skin discoloration. Incorporate a retinoid into your skincare routine to maintain healthy-looking skin.

30. Over-Indulging in Processed Foods

Processed foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can lead to inflammation and premature aging. Opt for whole, nutrient-dense foods to maintain healthy-looking skin.

Conclusion

There are many habits that can damage your skin and make you look older faster.

By avoiding these habits and incorporating healthy skincare practices, like wearing sunscreen and using gentle products, you can maintain healthy and youthful-looking skin for longer.