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10 Bad Skin Care Habits

Do you ever go to sleep with makeup on? Or maybe you bite your lip? Many of us are guilty of at least one bad skin habit. While they may seem harmless, these skin care no-nos can keep us from looking our best.

Fixing A Faux Pas

Maybe it's something we suspect we shouldn't do, such as
using old makeup brushes. Or maybe it's something we've
never considered before, such as not changing our sheets and pillowcases enough. Nevertheless, no matter what the bad habit is, there are natural ways to get our skin glowing again!

1. Tanning

This one falls under the "we know we shouldn't do it"
designation. Not only will tanning accelerate our skin's
aging process, leading to prematurely older-looking skin,
but it can also lead to skin cancer�definitely not worth it.

If you crave a golden glow, opt for a natural bronzer or
sunless tanner, available at natural health retailers. And
always make sure to be sun-smart by using a natural mineral-based sunscreen when spending time in the sun.

2. Over-Exfoliating

Although regular exfoliation can remove dead, dull skin
cells, not going overboard is key. Generally, exfoliating
once or twice a week with a natural product (such as one made from oatmeal or sugar) is sufficient. And exfoliation should be avoided altogether for those with sensitive skin prone to allergic reactions, or in the middle of an acne breakout.

3. Wearing Makeup To Bed

Wearing makeup to bed can be tempting on late nights, but
it's a definite no-no. Sleeping with makeup on can clog our
pores so our skin isn't able to breathe, and not removing
eye makeup may even lead to an allergic reaction or an eye
infection.

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser for your skin type,
and use a natural eye makeup remover�even on lazy evenings!

4. Biting Lips

Licking or chewing on our lips can dehydrate them, leading
to dried, cracked, and chapped lips, which can be even harder to leave alone. Although this problem can be exacerbated in the winter, it can happen all year long.

Stop the vicious cycle by investing in an exfoliating lip
scrub to remove rough skin, and then keep lips moisturized
with a natural lip balm. You'll be less likely to chew on
them if they're soft and smooth.

5. Using Old Makeup Brushes

Makeup brushes can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not
properly cared for. Be sure to clean your makeup brushes at
least once a month. Use a natural makeup brush cleaner or a gentle Castile soap, available at health food stores.

Other cosmetic TLC tips include always washing your hands
before applying makeup and not sharing cosmetics or cosmetic applicators (be especially cautious when trying out colours at the beauty counter).

6. Not Caring For Neck And Chest Skin

Don't let your skin care routine stop at your face. Our
delicate d�colletages (our necks and upper chests) are
exposed to the elements just like our faces, so they can
show signs of aging faster than areas we keep covered up.

Incorporate your neck and chest skin into your daily
cleansing, toning, and moisturizing routine�and when you're in the sun, make sure to wear your natural sunscreen on your d�colletage as well.

7. Squeezing Pimples

We may try to convince ourselves that popping or picking
pimples helps, but in reality it only makes acne worse and
can cause scarring. Plus, it can spread bacteria to other
areas of the face, leading to more pimples.

Help clear up pimples naturally with a gel or wash made with tea tree oil. Another option is herbal preparations for the skin that contain thyme, which may have a greater antibacterial effect than prescription acne cremes, according to a new study.

8. Using Too Much Product

When it comes to skin care, keep it simple. Although all
skin types can benefit from a daily skin care routine that
includes a gentle cleanser, toner, and lotion, piling on the products can irritate skin, especially when using products that all have differing formulas and purposes. See the sidebar below to learn which skin type you have and how to best care for it.

9. Taking Very Hot Showers

Sure, hot showers can feel great (even this time of year,
since�who are we kidding?�the cold weather isn't over yet) but they can wreak havoc on our skin's lipid barriers, leading to dry skin. Lukewarm water is also recommended for those suffering from eczema or dermatitis, as it is gentler on the skin. Keep your showers short and the temperature mild.

10. Not Changing Sheets And Pillowcases Often Enough

Our pillowcases and sheets absorb oils from our skin, and
they can reapply these oils and dirt onto our skin later on. Changing pillowcases and sheets frequently is especially important for those with oily, acne-prone skin.