Everyone has a bad habit that they want to give up, and when is the best time to do that if not in the New Year? February? How have you done so far?
Whether it’s leaving wet towels on the bed or sleeping with a full face of makeup, we’re all guilty of something because…we are not perfect. That said, some quirks are worse than others, particularly when it comes to your beauty regime. Your hair, makeup and nail missteps may seem harmless but eventually they could require even more effort to repair in the future.
If you haven’t made any New Year’s resolutions yet or haven’t stuck to any that you set, then you should read this article. From industry expert advisors to Shine’s own beauty team, we are here to help you cut out whatever holds you back from looking youthful and radiant.
What Industry Experts Say
Ditch the drinking straw
“The continued pursing of the lips leads to the formation of lip lines, sometimes referred to as smoker’s lines,” says David E. Bank, M.D., FAAD, Director of The Center for Dermatology, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery. The only way to prevent the lines is to stop the repetitive action that causes them. Years from now, you’ll be grateful you stopped.
Don’t use dull razor blades
Not only do dull razor blades cause cuts and ingrowing hairs, but they also increase your chance of bacterial or fungal infection due to rusty blades. Keep your razor blade sharp by storing it in a dry place after use, which can prevent rust. It’s also important to rinse your razor out thoroughly. If you haven’t tried it yet, give waxing “a go”. Waxing leaves your skin smooth and “worry free” for a few weeks at a time.
Stockpiling products in your bathroom?
Throw your skincare and hair products away after a year, unless less time is stated.
Look for a shelf-life sign on the packaging, it explains longevity of the product after opening. The formula can break down, rendering the product less effective, especially when it comes to sun block and products with salicylic acid and retinol.
Tons of make up is not cool!
“ The concept of an overly contoured face, intensely highlighted skin, and perfectly drawn-on eyebrows has put the focus on completely changing your face, essentially putting on a mask of makeup to feel beautiful”, says Sonia Kashuk, makeup artist and founder of Sonia Kashuk Beauty. “It directly contradicts empowering women. As a beauty brand and a makeup artist, I always encourage women to love themselves, embrace their natural beauty, and feel comfortable in their own skin.”
Change your pillowcases often
Even if you can’t see or smell the nastiness that’s gathering on your pillowcase, it’s affecting your skin. Excess dirt, oil, and makeup accumulate on your pillowcase, particularly if you sleep with a dirty face. Not only can this cause skin irritation, but it also leads to blocked pores and breakouts.
Make sure you double cleanse your face before bed. Otherwise if you are too tired or have a baby and skincare is the last thing you think about, then you can cheat. Keep good quality cleansing wipes by your bedside. Whilst they are not nearly as effective as traditional cleansers, they can do the trick.
Remove your make up before your work out.
Sweaty makeup is never as cute as you want it to be. “From an aesthetic standpoint—unless you’re wearing waterproof—it might be dripping down your face. From a dermatological standpoint, makeup and sweat are never a good combination,” explains Dendy Engelman, M.D., Director of Dermatologic Surgery and Laser Medicine at Metropolitan Hospital, and dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “When you’re hot, the body naturally cools by sweating and sweat escapes through your pores. If you have a layer of makeup over those pores, it’s causing a blockage. So now there’s sweat, bacteria, and makeup trapped in a pore with nowhere to go, which can lead to pimples and even acne.
Quit picking your cuticles!
A surprising number of people bite their nails and pick at their cuticles and get caught in a vicious circle of having hangnails and the temptation to bite them. Regular manicures, hand cream and keratin-based cuticle oil can help to stop you from picking.
Don’t skip the SPF with antioxidants
The most common skincare mistake, is forgetting to apply your sunscreen. Protection is one of the most crucial things to remember.
“The most preventable cause of aging is sun damage from daily outdoor exposure, but common SPF creams prevent only about 50-60% of environmental damage,” explains Dr. Jennifer Myers, board-certified dermatologist of Myers Dermatology. “Environmental exposure to UV rays and pollutants lead to wrinkles, dull texture, brown spots, and even skin cancer. The most effective anti-aging secret is the use of an antioxidant paired with sunscreen every single day.”
We recommend Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Serum to be applied after cleansing, before moisturising and an SPF on top. Alternatively, you can use 2in1 moisturizer and SPF. Our all time favourite is Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50.
What Shine Skin Experts say
We have reached out to our own Beauty Team for the most killer practices we wish our clients would stop doing…
Our lovely Ewa says “The first thing that comes to my mind, are clients who come for facial treatments and admit that they don’t clean make up off properly in the evening or simply use baby wipes. Baby wipes are a big “No” and should be swapped for an appropriate cleanser.”
So that’s two reminders now people!
“Anther common habit is to shave between waxing appointments, which only causes more discomfort during the next wax session and often leads to ingrowing hair problems. Although it can seem like a quick fix, it can be really painful. The simple way to prevent this problem is to have regular monthly waxing appointments.” Ewa
Desi, Beauty Manager at Shine Holistic explains that, “One of the frequent mishaps made is when a friend recommends a product and a client then buys it without considering that their skin needs are individual, as we all have different skin complexions and conditions. Even if the product has an amazing review, it doesn’t mean that it is suitable for you.”
The best product advice to seek is from a professional who can tailor it to your needs.
Dana, Beauty Manager at Shine on the Green, sees a lot of clients with discoloured, damaged nails. She reminds us to, “ Always use a base coat before applying a nail varnish and not to keep the varnish on for more than 3-4 weeks. Longer periods may result in a change of colour and texture of the nail itself.”
And Lastly:
“When applying an eye cream, apply gentle pressure with you ring fingers and work your way from the outer corner of the eye moving inward. Do not rub as it can lead to more stretches and wrinkles. Plus you should never put cream on your eyelid.” Dana.
So there you have it, just a few tips for some habits to break, so that you do not back track in your beauty regime.
Dana Vronska
