Everybody wants to feel beautiful to some degree. However, that doesn’t mean you should follow every beauty trend you see online. Many are just random, made-up stories or old wives’ tales that have circulated for years. You can easily damage your skin using some of these ‘trends.’
The biggest issue with beauty trends is that they don’t work for everyone. Everybody has unique skin, including its own set of problems. The most common skin problem in the U.S. is acne, which affects about 50 million adults annually.
Imagine using a lotion on your acne that you see trending online only for your face to burn and break out more. This isn’t an uncommon thing!
Dermatologists shake their heads at most new beauty trends. These experts know how to handle just about any skin issue. Here are some beauty trends to steer clear of and a few tips to keep your skin smooth and healthy.
DIY Sun Tanning Lotion
Tanning isn’t a new trend. It has been a significant issue for decades. Although tanning isn’t good for you because of how damaging it is to your skin and how it can increase your chance of getting skin cancer, DIY tanning oil is especially bad. Try to avoid using tanning oil or lotion at all, especially those with unusual recipes you find online.
Botox in a Box
If something sounds too good to be true, believe it. This applies to both skincare products that promise Botox-like results and discounted at-home Botox treatments. Botox can only be administered by a licensed medical professional, such as a doctor, nurse, or physician assistant. There is no online certificate you can quickly get.
Nail Polish Remover on Pimples
Pimples can be incredibly painful and annoying. It’s so annoying that you’re desperate to find ways to shrink or pop it. Although products like alcohol and witch hazel work, you should never apply something as drying or strong as nail polish remover to your face.
Sunscreen Contouring
Did you raise your eyebrow at this title? Sunscreen contouring is a technique where you don’t rub sunscreen into specific areas of your face to achieve a ‘natural contouring’ look. Dermatologists warn against this practice as it can lead to sunburns and damage, which not only ages your skin but increases your chance of getting skin cancer.
Jalapeño and Lime Lip Plumpers
Natural isn’t necessarily better. Although it’s tempting to try DIY hacks with household items or foods like limes and jalapeños, they can actually damage your skin. Jalapeños are spicy for a reason. They contain capsaicin, which is what gives the pepper its spice. This can irritate your skin and lips, causing them to turn red and burn. Using jalapeños for puffy lips may lead to dermatitis, burns, or dark spots.
Tips to Keep Your Skin Healthy and Happy
Trends come and go, but facts are everlasting. Click through for a few tips on how to keep your skin healthy and glowing. These tips have been tested and are hyped by dermatologists.
Sunscreen and Hats
Sun won’t just age your skin, but too much exposure can increase your risk of developing skin cancer. To protect yourself from the sun, wear long-sleeved shirts or UV-protective sleeves. For your face, which tends to receive the most exposure, such as your shoulders, wear sunscreen and reapply as needed, following the directions. A hat is also a lifesaver! It provides you with shade and comfort on hot days.
Water
Water really is life. Like sunscreen and hats, it’s a great way to protect and boost your skin’s health. Drinking plenty of water instead of sugary drinks can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and spots on your face.
Limit Hot Water
Hot showers might feel really good, but according to the Mayo Clinic, it’s better to use only warm or cold water for showers to keep your skin healthy.
Lower Stress
This tip is easier said than done, but it’s worth a mention. Stress can not only take a toll on your mind but also your body, including your skin. Stress can trigger acne breakouts and make your skin more sensitive. So, what can you do to lower your stress? Prioritize sleep. In addition to sleeping for at least eight hours a night, you can also meditate or address your stress triggers.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can age your face fast. If you want more youthful skin, ditch the cigarettes. Apart from youthfulness, smoking also affects already-established skin conditions like psoriasis. This, like reducing stress, is easier said than done.
Only Gently Wash Your Face
Don’t stress your skin out by rubbing it hard. Although exfoliating is beneficial for your skin, it’s best used in moderation. Constantly scrubbing your skin can make your problems, like acne, worse. Instead, gently wash and pat your skin dry.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Suzi Media Production / iStock via Getty Images.