The skin is our most honest communicator. It reacts instantly to improper care, harmful habits, and even stress. Some mistakes we make out of ignorance, while others stem from myths perpetuated by beauty bloggers. Let’s explore which habits accelerate aging and how to correct them.
1. Neglecting Sunscreen
• Many still consider SPF products to be seasonal, needed only at the beach. In reality, ultraviolet rays work year-round—even on cloudy days and through windows. UVB rays cause burns, while UVA rays penetrate deep into the dermis, destroying collagen and elastin. The result? Wrinkles appear 5-7 years earlier, and pigmentation spots become permanent "companions."
• How to Fix It: Choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection (SPF 30-50 and marked PA++++). Apply it every morning—even if you spend the whole day indoors. For city use, lightweight fluids or moisturizing creams with SPF are suitable.
2. Cleansing That Dries Out the Skin
• Foams and gels with aggressive surfactants (like SLS) disrupt the hydrolipid barrier. The skin loses moisture, feels tight, and wrinkles become more noticeable. Alcohol-containing toners are especially dangerous—they not only dry out the skin but also provoke excessive sebum production.
• How to Fix It: Switch to gentle cleansing products: micellar water, milk, or cream-gel with pH 5.5. After washing, the skin should not feel "squeaky." If you use a toner, opt for alcohol-free formulas with hyaluronic acid or centella asiatica.
3. Avoiding Anti-Aging Care Until the First Wrinkles Appear
• Waiting for visible signs of aging is like starting to repair the roof when it’s already raining. After 25, collagen synthesis slows down, and after 30, it decreases by 1-2% each year. If you don’t support your skin in time, the process will be harder to stop.
• How to Fix It: At 25-30 years old, add antioxidants (vitamin C, ferulic acid) to your routine; at 30+, incorporate peptides and retinol in low concentrations. After 40, include serums with growth factors and consider hardware procedures.
4. Incorrect Application of Cosmetics
• Pulling motions when applying cream, rubbing your eyes, and sleeping face-down on a pillow all contribute to "wrinkle creases." Over time, they stop smoothing out and turn into static wrinkles.
How to Fix It:
• Apply products using gentle tapping motions with your fingertips.
• Use your ring finger for the eye area—it has the lightest pressure.
• Consider using a silk pillowcase—it reduces friction.
5. Ignoring the Neck and Décolleté Area
• These areas age faster than the face: the skin here is thinner, there are almost no sebaceous glands, and collagen fibers break down more quickly. If for decades you only apply cream up to your chin, by 40-45 years old, the difference will be evident.
• How to Fix It: Care for your neck and décolleté as meticulously as you do for your face. The same serums and creams can be used but in lighter textures. Once a week, do lymphatic drainage massage—it prevents the formation of "Venus rings."
Important: These rules are just the foundation. To select an individual skincare routine, consult a cosmetologist. They will consider your skin type, lifestyle, and any existing changes.
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