10 Things I Do For My Skin

There are some things that I wish I had started doing earlier as far as taking care of my skin when I was younger or knew better but it's never too late to develop good skin habits. I actually get asked about my skin care quite often so here some things that I do for it in addition to my product regimen. I really think that no. 9 has some truly incredible anti-aging and skin clearing benefits.

1. I drink plenty of water and start the day with a cup of hot lemon water everyday.
Skin is hydrated from the inside out. Drinking water helps skin to be moist and glowing and reduces the appearance of fine lines/wrinkles. I swear by lemon water for a daily detox to keep my skin clear. It also has loads of other incredible benefits btw!

2. I eat a balanced diet that includes healthy fats.
There is something to be said about feeding your skin and I believe that healthy eating leads to healthy skin.  I'm a part-time vegetarian and I try to eat clean most of the time concentrating on lean proteins and foods rich in antioxidants and healthy fats like Omega-3s that are good for your heart and can keep your skin looking soft, supple and radiant. I haven't given up french fries or pizza but I don't eat them very often.

3. I make sleep a priority.
Beauty sleep is not a myth and sleep does wonders to reset our skin as well as our bodies. If I don't sleep enough it definitely shows up on my face and my skin appears dull and tired so I try to get my 7 - 8 hours every night and take advantage of the repair cycle.

4. I use sunscreen daily.
Getting into a good SPF habit is a key for preventing aging and decreasing the risks of skin cancer. I got into a habit of using a broad spectrum sunscreen everyday no matter the weather so it's something I don't ever have to worry about.

5. I never go to sleep without washing my face.
I used to do this in college and it was so bad. Over the day, environmental pollutants accumulate on your skin and bacteria can build up. Grossness factor aside, this can lead to clogged pores and generate breakout causing free radicals. Even if I don't a full on double-cleanse, I always make sure my face is clean before bed.

6. I exercise.
Exercise boosts circulation and improves muscle tone. It also generates endorphins which have anti-inflammatory and mood lifting benefits not mention it helps with my energy levels.

7. I regularly use wash-off and sheet masks.
I'm a big believer in targeted skin care so masks play a role in my skincare routine to treat ongoing issues like hyperpigmentation or deal with seasonal skin concerns like dryness. I even make my own masks.

8. I switch up my skincare seasonally.
The condition of my skin definitely changes with the weather so I adjust my skincare routine accordingly, like using products that build up a better moisture barrier to prevent dry skin during the winter and using stronger SPF during the summer.

9. I don't eat sugar.
I gave up sugar years ago and I wasn't even fully aware then what a fantastic thing I was doing for my skin as well as my body. Refined sugar causes Inflammation that produces enzymes that break down collagen and elastin. Glycation occurs when digested sugar attaches to the collagen in your skin. This causes aging and aggravates any existing skin conditions like acne and rosacea. My intake is limited to an occasional treat and usually a few bites. Honestly I don't miss it at all.

10. I exfoliate regularly.
I use a number of mild exfoliating products/methods a few times a week to slough off the dull top layers to remove impurities and reveal new, healthy, glowing skin while minimizing wrinkles, acne and dry spots. Exfoliation also helps my products to work better.

What do you do for your skin? I'd love to know!

Photo: Sure Korea