Have you ever found yourself in the verge of frustration as your skincare products never seem to work? You’ve tried everything—from Korean routines to Mario Badescu. However, you’re still dumbfounded as your skin suddenly stopped improving. Or perhaps it never started at all.

I know because I’ve been there. Actually, I’ve gotten to a point where I sought help from a dermatologist, because experimenting on skincare was money down the drain. It felt like a never-ending frustration. Even though I now observe a professionally recommended routine, I occasionally still get breakouts.

Hence, we’ve compiled a list of gentle reminders which may just give your products just the right kickstart. It’s not just good for your skin, but for your overall health too.

1. Lay off the alcohol, chug the water

I know this has been emphasized so much that it’s become a meme. However, it’s a necessity to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. While research hasn’t definitively figured out the direct connection of drinking water to removing blemishes, it wouldn’t hurt. Your skin is 64% water and it just makes sense to hydrate.

On the other hand, alcohol dehydrates you and your skin. According to this website, aside from dehydrating your face, alcohol decreases the body’s level of vitamin A, which is a powerful antioxidant.

I notice that my [uneven] complexion with tends to even out when I drink water.

I personally try to drink as much water as I can even though my workmate makes fun of my water jugs. I notice that my complexion tends to even out when I drink water. (I have pinkish red undertones). My lips don’t dry up too. This doesn’t mean I avoid having fun with alcohol–I just make sure to have twice or thrice as much water. This is a simple but effective way to avoid hangovers too.

2. Always lather the sunscreen

Sunscreen is a necessity. Yes, I’m aware that it’s rainy in the Philippines right now. But I’m also aware that the temperament of our weather is worse than a spoiled brat’s. Just because you’re not heading to the beach or you’re mostly staying in your office doesn’t mean you should skip the sunscreen.

While we do need Vitamin D, there’s a difference between sun-kissed and sun-burnt.

With a depleting ozone layer, our skin is more susceptible to harmful sun rays. While we do need Vitamin D, there’s a difference between sun-kissed and sun-burnt. Plus, according to HuffPost, sunscreen slows down the development of wrinkled, premature ageing skin. You only have to dedicate a minute a day. You’ll thank yourself later.

Lastly, common skincare products like Retinol, AHA and BHA do not mix well with the sun. The raw skin may just be damaged instead of rejuvenated. If you don’t want bad reactions, lather the sunscreen.

3. Moisturize like Doctor Who’s Cassandra

You probably think you don’t have to moisturize if your skin is oily. Wrong. Moisturizing isn’t just good for dry skin, since all skin types need a protective layer.

Moisturizing is a vital part of skincare as moistened skin tends to loosen sebum built up inside pores. This means less risk of acne. Although keep in mind that the products you use should always accommodate your skin type.

If you’re acne-prone, cop some moisturizers that are gel, oil-free or water-based so it doesn’t add to sebum buildup. Mario Badescu offers an oil-free moisturizer. If you’re keeping a budget, you can try Neutrogena or Physiogel.

4. Get enough sleep

I know, getting full sleep is hard due to work or school’s demands. However, as much as I hate to say it, sleep is very important for your skin. And health.

Ever notice that you get sluggish and zombie-like when you lack sleep? Your complexion becomes dull too, and the bags under your eyes don’t help at all. This is because “increased inflammatory cells in the body lead to an increase in the breakdown of collagen and hyaluronic acid.” These are nutrients responsible for fighting fine lines, loose skin, and dryness.

Perhaps sometimes it’s okay to hit that snooze button. Just make sure you’re done with your deadlines.

5. Be mindful of your diet

I know this has been repeated again and again by your 3rd grade teacher: Avoid junk food. And fast food. And sugar. There are alternatives that are actually good for your skin and overall health.

Replace sweets with honey, which you can also use as a mask. Honey has anti-inflammatory qualities that help prevent the swelling and redness that can come from acne. Munch on sunflower seeds instead of junk food. Replace milk chocolate with dark ones.

Eating the right food exudes this positive energy which will reflect on your skin too

While this can get overwhelming, you just have to grow out of some things. Once you eat healthier, you’ll start feeling healthier. Eating the right food exudes this positive energy which will reflect on your skin too. No pressure though, you can take it one step at a time.

Art by Bryan Sochayseng
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