7 bedtime mistakes that are harming your skin
While we sleep, our skin makes the most of the downtime to repair and rejuvenate. But there are a few common bedtime practices that you might be doing that could be making it hard for this to happen. See if you are making any of these mistakes.
1. Going to bed without cleansing your face
There is a reason this is number one – it’s the most important! Even if you don’t wear makeup, your skin takes on pollutants, dust and grime throughout the day which need to be removed. If you don’t, you’re going to bed with skin that can’t breathe, let alone get rid of dead skin cells. A simple cleanse over the sink is all you need.
2. Using too-hot or too-cold water
But when you do clean your face, keep the water at a gentle temperature. Too much extreme in terms of very hot or very cold water is too harsh on your delicate skin.
3. Waiting until bedtime to wash your face
Normally people scrub just before bed, but why wait? If you wash your face as soon as you get home, it gives your skin a few extra hours to breathe a bit easier before you retire for the night.
4. Only using moisturiser
Once we hit 30, our skin needs more support in the form of retinoid cream. This is in addition to a moisturiser or night cream. You don’t need to head to the dermatologist though, you can pick one up from most department stores or chemists.
5. Using too many products
If you are in the ‘more is better’ camp, you could be spending money you don’t need to on the latest eye creams, scrubs, cleansers and moisturisers. Try sticking to just a couple of products, ideally from the same range so that you know they compliment each other rather than compete.
6. Forgetting other areas of your body
It’s easy to focus on the face, but you want to remember to moisturise all of your skin. Use your face creams all the way down your neck and chest. Then at least once a week, moisturise your whole body after a shower.
7. Drinking coffee or wine before bed
Hydration is the key to softer skin, so it’s best to avoid moisture-suckers like caffeine or alcohol if you want to look your best. Go for a herbal tea instead that will support a good night’s sleep, such as chamomile or valerian.
Have you got any tips for younger looking skin that you would like to share? We would love to hear from you in the comments.