My Best Skin Care Tips

I have had my fair share of skin issues from pimples to dryness and am a lover of all things skin care.  I'm constantly doing research and trying new products to see what works best to keep my skin clean and clear.  Here I have my 10 must try tricks to get and keep your skin looking its best.

1. Drink a lot of water.

Aim to drink at least eight 8 ounce glasses (64 ounces) of water a day.  Drinking water helps to flush out toxins and keep everything hydrated.  I can always tell when I haven't been drinking enough water because my skin starts to appear dull.  So whether you want to drink filtered water, Smart Water, or even naturally flavored water (try making your own with this!) make sure to be constantly drinking and trying to get in as much water as you can.  Bonus: drinking more water is better for your whole body not just your skin!

2. Maintain a consistent skin care regimen.

It is important to have a skin care routine that you do twice a day in order to keep skin clear.  I recommend having at least a cleanser, toner, daytime lotion, and nighttime lotion as a part of your beauty routine.  Consistently washing your face twice a day with the same products works to address skin issues and to keep your skin clean and healthy.  I used to constantly switch up the products I was using thinking it would help my skin, but I have learned that it was actually hurting it and my skin has looked so much better since I have stuck to a steady regimen.

3. Always remove your makeup.

I know everyone always says this, but I really cannot stress how important this is.  Leaving your makeup on clogs your pores, ages you, irritates your skin, and overall just makes you feel gross.  I know the few times I've slept in my makeup (usually after a night out) I have been miserable when I woke up and my eyes are always insanely itchy from eye makeup.  Do yourself the favor and take off your makeup no matter what, even if you just use a makeup removing wipe and don't wash the rest of your face (not that I am recommending this, but it's better than leaving your makeup on), your skin will thank you.

4. Have a makeup free day.

It is important to go without makeup from time to time in order to let your skin breathe.  I recommend going once a week without makeup and enjoying your beautiful skin with just some moisturizer on.  Trust me a day without makeup feels great and makes your skin happy.

5. Use a face brush to wash your face.

Using a brush to wash your face helps to clean your skin much better than just your hands alone. Use the brush a few times a week to get a really deep clean and to help exfoliate your skin; your products will absorb better and your skin will look clearer.  I highly recommend using a Clarisonic, but there are some great brushes at lower price points too like this one.

6. Go Natural.

When it comes to skin care I try to go natural when I can.  There are so many items that you have in your kitchen that you can use to make face washes, scrubs, and masks that will give you great results. Check out these posts for different ideas on how to incorporate natural, food grade products into your beauty routine.

7. Moisturize!

Keeping your face hydrated and moisturized is vital for healthy skin.  If you don't moisturize your skin's oil production will be put into overdrive in order to compensate for the lack of moisture.  This then leads to the overproduction of oil, which can leave your skin looking shiny and clog your pores.  Even if you have super oily skin it is necessary to use moisturizer in order to counteract the oil and keep your skin from getting dehydrated.

8. Make sure your hairline is kept clean.

Both hair and skin care products have a tendency to get caught in our hairline and cause breakouts, in order to prevent this is is super important to keep your hairline clean.  To do this make sure to splash water along your hairline when washing your face to make sure that no product is left behind.  I also take a cotton pad soaked in witch hazel and run it over my hairline each time I wash my face to keep it clean.  Also remember not to push your moisturizer into your hairline because that can lead to breakouts.

9. Clean your cellphone, glasses, sunglasses, and anything else that touches your face.

Items that touch your face are a breeding ground for oil, dirt, and bacteria that then sits on your skin.  In order to prevent these items from causing a breakout it is important to keep them clean by wiping them off with an alcohol based wipe like Wet Ones.

10. Do your research.

Doing skin care research and getting to know your skin type are important steps in achieving clear skin. Skin is your biggest organ and should be treated like it, it is important to learn from experts what is the best, safest, and healthiest option to address your skin issues.  Make sure to rely on reputable sources so that you know you are getting the best advice possible.  Sites I love for skin care are Refinery 29, Byrdie, and Allure.

What is your best skin care tip?

                

Make sure to add me on Snapchat - @kthomp22!

P.S. Don't forget that Jordyn's and my Instagram challenge, J'adore June, starts today!

Today I'm linking up with #HowISpring, Manic Monday, MIMM, Let it Shine, Mingle Monday, and Weekending.