I had originally planned to post this before the outbreak of COVID-19 turned the world upside down. I scrapped the post date because I thought it may seem insensitive and ironic due to the fact that we are spending our time at home and away from others. Upon a second look, the advice is still relevant (with the exception of getting haircuts). So try implementing these simple habits as a contribution to your overall beauty wellness during this crazy time- and keep them in mind when things calm down.
Stop touching your face
I’m not talking about facial massage, or using your hands during product application. Picking, scratching, squeezing pimples and blemishes can lead to infected acne, hyperpigmentation, acne scarring/skin caving and can aggravate skin conditions such as milia and eczema. As harmful as it is, many of us are victims of this bad habit. Try making a conscious effort to curb the impulse-your face (and body) will thank you.
Use SPF every day
It’s not a new thing to recommend SPF for daily use. Sun damage is real and affects all of us, no matter what our skin tone. Thankfully, there are a variety of great options out there to suit different needs and budgets. Don’t assume that your makeup contains an SPF-some brands omit them due to unwanted shine it can give to foundations. If your foundation contains SPF, it doesn’t hurt to choose a lightweight non comedogenic SPF to layer underneath for added protection. Cloudy weather is not an excuse to skip it- the UVA/UVB rays aren’t filtered through the clouds. And don’t forget to reapply!
Protect your hair before using thermal tools
Don’t forget that the hairdryer is a thermal tool! Using a product before drying can ease frizz, speed drying time and add conditioning elements. Why not protect your strands? Even the occasional curling iron use can cause damage. Using thermal tools without a heat barrier, even on occasion, compounded with poor products and never getting a trim can lead to spit ends and dull, dry hair. I’ve seen virgin hair that looked as damaged as chemically processed hair due to poor practice with thermal tools. Prevention is key- and the most helpful in the long run. Another important reminder: unless an oil product touts a thermal protection barrier, most likely it’s not there! Coconut oil on its own, though popular, is not a thermal protection product- it can intensify heat and cause the hair to scorch and burn.
Get regular trims/haircuts
This isn’t the hairstylist in me trying to drum up business, it’s a legitimate tip that should be taken seriously. The logic is simple, the better you care for your hair, the less frequent you may need a trim. However, constant styling, coloring and other chemical processing add to the damage your hair goes through and your hairstylist should be watching out for split, dry and irreparable ends. Ask them for a recommended trim schedule to keep your ends looking fresh.
Detox trends & products that don’t meet needs or lifestyle
Very often, the Instagram Influencer portrays a romanticized version of skincare or hair care. It’s appealing and we can often find ourselves influenced into buying a certain product or brand that may not be a great fit for us– it happens! A good sort-through and clear out can do wonders to help you stay focused on a routine that is easy to maintain and you enjoy doing. Assess what your hair/skin routine is and identify areas that fall through the cracks or are neglected. Make a list. When possible, look for multipurpose/multi use products to reduce the amount of steps if you want to streamline, or if you enjoy the process, find specialized targeted products that may be missing from your routine which can be added. Needless to say, most of us don’t have disposable income to just buy new products left and right, or trash perfectly usable products in an effort to start fresh. Try giving some away to friends or family, if sanitary, or use until empty. If the product is causing irritation, burning or hurting you in any way-then by all means stop using it! Have a look at the ingredients and take note-just in case a product with similar ingredients causes any issues in the future. This way, when problems arise, you can consult a trusted doctor or dermatologist for help.
Unlike a trendy diet, these are lifestyle changes that feel good for you. You can still curl your hair, be a masking queen, or enjoy the sun- but now you’re doing it smarter and giving your body the care it deserves. What good habits have you started? I’d love to hear about it!
