Whether you are in your 20s or your 50s, unsightly signs of aging can make an appearance on your face. Wrinkles and fine lines can creep up around the eyes and forehead, while age spots or discolouration can affect your overall facial appearance. While some skin changes are inevitable over time, there are a few avoidable habits that may be harming your skin. Here, Vancouver plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Pugash shares five common skin care mistakes, and how to better maintain your skin’s natural glow.
Mistake #1: Not Moisturizing Daily
In order for your skin to look radiant and fresh, it needs to stay hydrated. Moisturizing imbues your skin with nutrients, such as Vitamin C, to stay firm and healthy. Exfoliate your skin before putting on any makeup, moisturizer or sunscreen. Exfoliation removes dead cells from the skin and keeps pores healthy.
Mistake #2: Skipping Sunscreen
Many people remember to apply sunscreen before heading to the beach during summer, but the truth is, this may not be enough to prevent sun damage. The sun’s rays can still reach your skin during cloudy, winter days. Long-term exposure to the sun’s UV rays can have a range of effects including wrinkles, dry skin and even skin cancer. Apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and make sure it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Most sunscreens suggest you stay out of the sun for the first 15 minutes after application.
Mistake #3: Wearing Too Much Foundation
Foundation is meant to create a more even skin tone, but too much foundation can easily make the skin look dry or aged. Avoid using chalky finishing powder, which can bring fine lines and wrinkles to the forefront. Instead, try using a sheer liquid product that contains light-diffusing pigments. Apply with a damp sponge sparingly and finish by blending gently with your fingers.
Mistake #4: Overcorrecting Dark Circles
Do dark “bags” underneath your eyes concern you? You’re not alone. Many women seek to minimize the appearance of these unappealing dark circles. Consider using a liquid highlighter pen that can hide skin discoloration without looking too caked-on. Thick concealers can reduce the appearance of under-eye circles but can also highlight fine lines and dry-looking skin.
Mistake #5: Leaving Your Makeup on at Night
Dirt and bacteria can cling to your makeup throughout the day, so it’s important to wash your face before going to bed. If you don’t, that dirt and bacteria can clog your pores. Additionally, you run the risk of rubbing your eyes while you sleep and irritating your eyes or the skin around the eyes with makeup. Never scrub your face; instead, gently wash off your makeup with your hands. For eye makeup, place cotton balls damp with eye makeup remover over your eyes for 25 to 30 seconds.
Rejuvenate Your Skin with Dr. Pugash
Whether you want to minimize the effects of aging or repair skin caused by sun damage, Vancouver plastic surgeon Dr. Eric Pugash can help. He offers several facial plastic surgery procedures including facelift and eyelid surgery to smooth the skin and eliminate wrinkles for a more youthful appearance. Dr. Pugash also offers a range of non-surgical procedures such as BOTOX, dermal fillers and chemical peels to keep the skin vibrant and healthy. Schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Pugash today. Please call (604) 522-5199.