The skin is the first layer of protection from all environmental pollutants. Following a healthy skincare regime ensures proper nutrition to skin cells, while using the wrong products can speed up the premature aging process of the largest organ of the human body. Wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, age spots, etc., are the common signs of premature aging of the skin. Here are five such common mistakes that should be avoided:

Using soap bars
Soap bars are pretty common because they are readily available and affordably priced. Using soap bars can lead to premature aging of the skin though. This is because the formulation of the bars is such that they dry the skin on application. Soap bars can strip the cells of their natural oils and delay the collagen-producing process.

The best thing to do is to opt for face and body cleansers rather than using soap bars. Make sure you do not apply it on the face, instead use a face cleanser that has been created for the facial skin.

Wearing makeup as protection from the sun
Using foundations and other makeup items that contain SPF makes us feel protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. However, these cosmetic items contain SPF as an added protection. Simply applying makeup is not going to protect your skin from harm. Also, foundation and other such cosmetic items cannot be applied to your arms, necks, scalp, and other exposed parts of the skin, leaving most of the skin uncovered and unprotected from the sun’s rays. To add to it, makeup does not last for long hours. As it starts to wear off, your face gets exposed to UV rays. Hence, using makeup as an alternative to sunscreen is a big mistake.

Whether it is summer or winter, it is imperative to wear sunscreen to protect your skin. Opt for creams that contain good quantities of minerals like zinc for the best results. The cream should be applied often.

Applying sunscreen only to the face & arms

While it is important to protect the face and arms, we often ignore the other exposed parts of the body, where the skin can start to age prematurely when exposed to UV rays. You need to use sunscreen that will protect all visible and exposed skin areas like the forehead, ears, neck region, eyelids, feet, scalp, etc., from premature aging. If you do not want to apply sunscreen to your scalp, you can cover your head with a scarf or hat.

Using skincare products but in the wrong order

We spend a lot on buying premium skincare products. Many times, however, we are not fully aware of the steps or procedures to apply these products. For example, exfoliation should be done before moisturizing the skin. This way, the toxins, and dead cells are out before you nourish the cells. You need to understand that every product type consists of certain formulations, and they work when applied under certain circumstances. Hence, it is essential to understand the sequence in which these products need to be applied to the skin before using them.
Premature aging and certain types of skin diseases can occur if you do not take care of what, how, and when you are applying skin care products.

Retouching makeup several times during the day

This is another big mistake that ladies commit without understanding the repercussions. As the day progresses, your skin covered with makeup is exposed to several pollutants. These toxins stick to the powders, foundations, and different layers. When you retouch the makeup, you unknowingly push them further, and they penetrate deep into the cells, often making them clog. Thus, your skin is exposed to further damage as the day proceeds.

Preventing premature aging involves taking care of small things like using face and body cleansers, wearing sunscreen and applying it to all exposed parts, using products in the right order and using makeup that survives through the day. Don’t forget to use overnight deep moisturizing creams to keep skin supple and healthy.