Most people do their best to follow a skincare routine to keep their skin well-balanced, nourished, and youthful. But not all practices have a positive impact on skin health. Additionally, people opt for anti-aging creams, remedies, and ointments that are readily available in stores. However, not all of them have the desired effect, and some can even cause skin problems and signs of aging. So here are five mistakes to avoid premature aging:

Stepping out without sunscreen

Sun exposure is vital for the body as it helps with vitamin D production in the body. This essential nutrient strengthens the bones and the blood cells, energizing the immune system. Additionally, this vitamin also stimulates other minerals in the body, like calcium. However, going outdoors without sunscreen is a big mistake. This is because the skin, the largest organ of the human body, is constantly exposed to UV rays that can age the skin dramatically. Some common skincare issues that arise as a result are wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, dry skin, and burns, among others. Further, UV rays can reduce the elasticity of the skin resulting in premature aging.

Over-exfoliation

Lightly scrubbing the face could be an essential skincare step to ensure that impurities, dirt, and dead cells are removed from the skin’s surface. However, being too harsh on the skin or going overboard with chemical exfoliants should be avoided at all costs. When one excessively scrubs the face or any other part of the body, the results can be counter-productive. Exfoliating more than required removes protective cells that are invisible to the eyes. So, over-exfoliation leads to dry skin and, at times, inflammation, redness, irritability, and even hyperpigmentation. All of these are signs of aging.

Typically, exfoliating 2 to 3 times a week is more than enough to keep the skin surface free from dead cells and dirt.

Sleeping with makeup on

Another big mistake that people make is that they do not remove their makeup before going to bed. Skincare specialists believe that makeup should be removed and the face cleansed immediately upon returning home. This is because pollutants that stick to your skin, especially the exposed areas of the skin, give rise to free radicals, which can hamper elastin and collagen production. So, when one goes to bed regularly with makeup on, these free radicals can encourage the growth of wrinkles and fine lines. Further, certain cosmetic products and ingredients can clog the pores making it difficult for the cells to breathe. So, it is extremely important to avoid sleeping with makeup on.

Not washing the face after waking up

One’s cleansing ritual must be well-balanced; while cleaning off the makeup before bed is important, washing one’s face and skin first thing in the morning is crucial. This is because while sleeping, the skin undergoes a natural purging process removing impurities and toxins accumulated throughout the day. If the skin remains unwashed in the morning, these impurities will keep clogging the cells creating a build-up that can result in premature aging.

Not getting enough sleep

Another skincare mistake is overlooking the importance of a good night’s sleep for healthy skin. Sleep is crucial for the body and skin as the skin cells get rid of toxins while the body is resting. Cutting down on sleep can lead to breakouts, dry skin, dull complexion, wrinkles, and fine lines. This is why the necessity for “beauty sleep” has been highlighted for a long time.

Apart from avoiding these skincare mistakes, it is important to understand that the skin is sensitive and requires complete care. This becomes all the more important when people get tattoos. The sensitive skin around the tattoo requires thorough aftercare. One should get adequate sleep, use clean sheets, and avoid sleeping on the tattoo as part of practicing tattoo care at night. This can help one avoid infections and skin problems.