9 Factors that can Wreak Havoc on Your Skin

Adequate sun protection can prevent lasting sun damage to the skin.

If your skin isn't looking its best, there could be a number of reasons. Some of the culprits are obvious, while others are not as readily evident. Get some insight into why your skin might be misbehaving with this list of factors that can wreak havoc on your skin.

Not Moisturizing

Dry skin is susceptible to all sorts of problems, from wrinkles to redness and irritation, and even acne brought on by the skin overproducing oil to compensate for the dryness. Moisturizer should be an essential part of your skin care routine -- even if you are only in your teens or twenties -- to prevent problems now and in the future.

Wearing Makeup to Bed

Not removing makeup before going to bed can cause blocked pores and lead to breakouts. Even if you only wash your face once a day, it should be at the end of the day so that you don't put your skin at risk.

Too Much Sun

Sunscreen should definitely be part of your daily skin care routine to prevent photoaging, which can happen even if you never sunburn. Wearing protective clothing and reapplying sunscreen every hour or two when you will be exposed to direct sunlight for a prolonged period of time will keep sun damage from rearing its ugly head.

Stress

Managing stress through exercise or deep breathing can keep your body from producing cortisol, the stress hormone that causes problems for the skin.

Getting enough sleep can protect your skin.

Over-washing

Washing your face is a good thing, right? Turns out, it could be too much of a good thing. Experts now advise washing your face only once or twice a day. More than that could strip beneficial oils from the skin and cause more breakouts rather than fewer.

Hot Showers

Hot water dries out skin and this is not a good thing. It's best to keep showers to 10 minutes or less, and to use only warm water rather than hot in order to keep your skin clear and hydrated.

Not Enough Sleep

Scientists don't have a complete understanding of all the biochemical processes that happen while someone sleeps, but they do know that sleep deprivation is bad for the skin, the brain and the body. Missing out on sleep can make skin look saggy, pale and puffy as your blood pressure drops and inflammation increases. At least seven or eight hours of sleep each night is recommended.

Poor Eating Habits

Eating healthy foods sends vitamins and antioxidants to your skin, while eating junk food can cause breakouts and even premature aging. Stick to whole foods and stay away from processed foods, sugars, carbohydrates, and saturated fats.

These factors can wreak havoc on your skin, but you can fight back. Are you interested in improving the look and feel of your skin? Check Vivant's correctors for a wide variety of serums that will give your skin a healthy, radiant glow.

Tip: We also suggest trying our Questionnaire to see which Vivant Skin Care products best suit your skin.