13 Ways You're Damaging Your Skin Without Even Realising It

Getting your beauty sleep is actually very important. While you're sleeping, your skin is at work clearing out the pores and replacing the upper layer with new cells. Lack of sleep can result in clogged pores and dull skin.

Solution: Try to get a solid 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

Your stress at work carries over to how your skin looks. Especially if stress causes you to squint and frown a lot, you'll notice stress-lines that end up as wrinkles over time. Other effects of stress can include blemishes, dullness, and rashes.

Solution: Relieve stress by exercising or spending time with friends.

You may enjoy the cooling effects of being in an air-conditioned room, but your skin will not appreciate its drying effects. Air conditioners strip the humidity from the room, which includes the moisture from your skin.

Solution: Set an off timer for your air conditioner and place a bowl of water to help humidify the room. Also, don't forget to use moisturiser to rehydrate your skin.

Sunblock isn't just something you apply when going to the beach or before going for a swim. In fact, you can get exposed to harmful UV rays even during cloudy days or when you're sitting by the window in your office. This may lead to premature skin ageing or skin cancer.

Solution: Don't skip the sunscreen. Just a little can go a long way.

While some people can't resist the urge of popping a pimple, it actually does more harm than good. When you pop a pimple, you can end up tearing your skin, leaving an open wound or scar. Often times, the popped pimple can also get worse or lead to more pimples.

Solution: Leave your pimples alone and let nature take its course.

Exercise helps to promote blood circulation, which keeps your skin vibrant and healthy. For some people, exercise is also a great way to reduce stress. If you have skin conditions like acne, remember to wear loose-fitting clothes when exercising to prevent chafing that can cause irritation.

Solution: Make it a point to exercise regularly for radiant, glowing skin.

Too much sodium in your diet can lead to dry, flaky skin. Too much sugar, on the other hand, can damage the collagen in your skin, leading to saggy skin. Foods rich in vitamin B3, C, D, and E are good for your skin, so try including them into your diet.

Solution: Swap the candy and soda for a healthy fruit instead.

Exfoliating once in a while is good for your skin, but if you're doing it too often you're actually robbing your skin of its natural oils. Instead of refreshing your skin, this may cause breakouts and skin irritation. Make sure you also pay attention to the types of skincare products you use, as some may be overly aggressive and will harm your skin if you're not careful.

Solution: Exfoliate not more than three times a week.

While sleeping on your side is actually beneficial in many ways, one thing it can cause is wrinkles on that side of your face. It can also lead to vertical creases down your cheeks and chin.

Solution: Sleep on your back or alternate between both sides.

Smoking can result in collagen and elastin damage, causing premature skin aging. It can also inhibit the blood from reaching your skin cells. However, the effects of smoking on skin are not only limited to smokers, but also people affected by secondhand smoke.

Solution: Reduce or stop smoking, and avoid common smoking areas.

When you're in an airplane, the humidity level drops to 20 percent, which is half of what the body is used to. This not only causes dry, flaky skin, but can also lead to dehydration. For frequent travellers, make sure you stay hydrated and use the right products during your flights.

Solution: Drink more water and use a moisturiser once every 1 to 2 hours.

Consuming too much alcohol can cause dehydration in your skin, which may in turn lead to wrinkles and dullness in your skin. Excessive drinking can also deprive your skin of its essential vitamins and nutrients.

Solution: Drink less for healthier looking skin.

Different people have different skin types and require their own skincare routine. For instance, someone with sensitive skin should avoid products with alcohol, soap, acid, or fragrance. People with skin conditions should use a gentle skin cleanser and rinse with warm water, before patting their face dry with a towel.

Solution: Find out your skin type and follow a suitable skincare routine.

A little sunscreen, a few hours of extra sleep, and a proper skincare routine can go a long way in giving you healthier skin. If you suffer from skin conditions, staying away from bad habits can also help prevent breakouts, dry skin, and eczema from flaring up.

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is soap-free, fragrance-free, and pH balanced. This means it won't be too harsh on your skin, and instead will gently clean while moisturising at the same time, leaving your skin feeling rejuvenated each time.

Furthermore, according to a Home Tester Club survey, 99% of Malaysian women agree that Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser gently cleans and moisturises without stripping the skin of its natural oils, making it their go-to cleanser.