Sesame leaf extract: A traditional skincare remedy

Sesame leaf extract: A traditional skincare remedy

Follow this guide

What’s the story

Sesame leaf decoction is a traditional African remedy that is gaining popularity for its skin-soothing properties.
The leaves of the sesame plant are rich in nutrients and have been used for centuries to promote healthy skin.
This natural solution is known for its calming effect on irritated or inflamed skin, making it a preferred choice for those looking for natural skincare alternatives.

Nutrient-rich composition of sesame leaves

Sesame leaves are loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and E, which are important for healthy skin.
These vitamins help in repairing damaged skin and protecting it from environmental stressors.
The leaves also contain antioxidants that fight free radicals, which can cause premature aging.
The presence of minerals like calcium and magnesium further promotes overall skin health by keeping it hydrated and elastic.

Traditional preparation methods

Preparing sesame leaf decoction the traditional way involves boiling fresh or dried sesame leaves in water until the nutrients are extracted fully.
The resulting liquid can be used as a toner or facial rinse to reap its soothing benefits.
This simple preparation method retains most of the beneficial compounds in the leaves, making it an effective natural remedy.

Benefits for irritated or inflamed skin

The anti-inflammatory properties of sesame leaf decoction make it ideal for calming irritated or inflamed skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis.
Regular use can reduce redness and swelling while promoting faster healing of affected areas.
Its gentle nature makes it suitable even for sensitive skin types looking for relief from discomfort without harsh chemicals.

Incorporating into daily skincare routine

To incorporate sesame leaf decoction into your daily skincare routine, start by cleansing your face with a mild cleanser.
Then apply the cooled decoction using a cotton pad as a toner, or mist it directly onto your face as a refreshing spray throughout the day when needed.
Consistency is key; use this natural remedy regularly to see noticeable improvements over time without any adverse effects on your complexion.

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Why peptides deserve a place in your skincare routine

Why peptides deserve a place in your skincare routine

Olay Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Moisturiser

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This is a classic peptide moisturiser that has earned its loyal following for good reason. It delivers long lasting hydration while supporting skin elasticity, making it a solid everyday option for mature skin.

The texture is rich without feeling heavy, and it works well both morning and night. If you want a dependable peptide product that fits easily into an existing routine, this is a reliable choice.

Dermal Therapy Overnight Face Repair Cream

From $21.95
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This is an excellent budget friendly option that focuses on overnight repair. Designed to support the skin barrier while you sleep, it helps address dryness, texture and early signs of ageing.

It is particularly well suited to skin that feels depleted or tight, and it proves that effective peptide skincare does not have to come with a high price tag.

 

Ainohea Chaom Balancing Dermaclera Active Serum

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This serum combines peptides with barrier supporting ingredients to help strengthen and balance the skin. It is a good option if your skin is prone to sensitivity, redness or dehydration alongside visible ageing.

Lightweight and easy to layer, it works well under moisturiser and is suitable for daily use, particularly if your skin needs both calming and firming support.

MooGoo Amplified Anti-Ageing Peptide Active Serum

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This targeted serum uses peptide technology designed to soften the look of expression lines, particularly around the forehead and eyes. It is ideal if fine lines are your main concern and you prefer a lightweight serum over a heavier cream.

It absorbs quickly and can be applied before moisturiser, making it easy to incorporate into both morning and evening routines.

Nutra Organics Collagen Beauty with Verisol and Vitamin C

Vani-T Lumiere Collagen Beauty Peptides with Verisol

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This supplement option supports beauty from within by combining bioactive peptide collagen with verisol technology. Verisol peptides are specifically formulated to help encourage skin elasticity and firmness, while also supporting hair and nail strength.

It can be taken daily as part of a holistic approach to skin health, complementing topical peptide skincare. Many people find that combining internal and external peptide support delivers more noticeable results over time.

Trilogy Hyaluronic Acid Ultra Serum

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This serum pairs peptides with hyaluronic acid to deliver hydration and skin smoothing benefits in one step. It is particularly helpful for mature skin that feels dry or looks dull, as it helps plump the skin while supporting firmness.

The lightweight texture makes it suitable for layering and daily use, and it works well across all seasons.

Peptides are not a miracle ingredient, but they are a smart and reliable one. They support the skin’s natural repair processes, help improve firmness and are gentle enough for daily use across all skin types. If you are looking to future proof your skincare routine without overwhelming your skin, adding a peptide product is a practical and effective place to start.

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2026 must haves: Skin Renewal’s trend forecast

2026 must haves: Skin Renewal’s trend forecast

From 2025’s skincare heroes to 2026’s game changers, one thing became beautifully clear, skincare has grown up. Quick fixes quietly stepped aside while science led care took the lead, delivering real change you can see and feel. At Skin Renewal, this shift feels natural, because it mirrors how we have always cared for skin, with medical insight, innovation and a long-term view of true skin health.

Throughout 2025, we witnessed remarkable transformations across our branches. Thoughtfully formulated home care became trusted daily companions, while advanced in branch treatments like the Pearl Fractional Laser proved to be true standouts. What made the biggest difference was not just the technology, but the magic that happens when professional treatments and intelligent topicals work together.

At the heart of this success is one of Skin Renewal’s core pillars of ageing well, results driven multifunctional home care. With the expansion of our topical range in 2025 and exciting innovations ahead, it is clear that skin transformation does not end when you leave the treatment room. Our purpose remains bringing the world’s best medical aesthetic advances to South African skin, every step of the way.

Some of 2025’s proven winners continue to shine. Our hero topicals work beneath the surface, supporting skin function, repairing barriers, and encouraging renewal, not simply improving appearance.

The Triple Ceramide Hydrating Complex became a go-to for restoring comfort and hydration.

Acne Relief Complex continued to change the lives of those struggling with breakouts by addressing oil control, inflammation, and healing in one intelligent formula.

Tri Peptide Brightening Complex gently corrected stubborn pigmentation while soothing sensitivity and supporting youthful skin.

Age Defying Complex delivered visible radiance and firmness through a powerful blend of vitamin C, peptides, and hydration. And this is only the beginning.

In the branch, our treatment portfolio continued to raise the bar. Pearl Fractional Laser became essential for texture, tone, and pore refinement. Endymed FSR stood out for acne scarring and uneven skin, while Laser Genesis remained a favourite for building collagen and glow over time. Microneedling proved once again that versatility and consistency deliver powerful results. Pico Laser impressed with fast, safe pigmentation correction across all skin tones.

Looking ahead, excitement is building with the arrival of Ultraformer MPT, an advanced non-invasive ultrasound treatment delivering visible lifting, tightening, and glow with results that continue to improve over weeks and last for many months. It represents the next evolution of refined rejuvenation with comfort at its core.

As we move into 2026, the future lies in smarter synergy. Doctor-led treatments paired with advanced Skin Renewal formulations allow skin to be prepared, transformed, and maintained more efficiently, often with fewer sessions and greater results. Personalised protocols remain our foundation, combining clinical precision with Dr Maureen Allem’s formulations for outcomes that feel powerful, natural, and sustainable.

As the year unfolds, global insight will continue to guide us. One of the first major medical aesthetic congresses of 2026, IMCAS, brings together the world’s leading innovations and research. Skin Renewal CEO and co-founder Victor Snyders and our procurement team will be sharing key insights from the event across our platforms, helping you stay informed and future-proof your skin journey.

At Skin Renewal, the glow up is never about chasing trends. It is about science, consistency, and care. And as we step into 2026, the future of skin health has never looked brighter.

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Why carrot leaves should be a part of your skincare

Why carrot leaves should be a part of your skincare

Follow this guide

What’s the story

African carrot leaves, a staple in many African cuisines, have found their way into skincare routines, thanks to their rich nutrient profile.
Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, these leaves can help you achieve glowing skin naturally.
Here’s how you can use them in your daily skincare routine for a healthier complexion.

Rich in vitamin A

African carrot leaves are loaded with vitamin A, which is essential for healthy skin.
Vitamin A helps in the production of new skin cells and repairs damaged ones. It also helps in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Adding these leaves to your diet or applying them topically can give you a youthful glow by promoting cell regeneration.

Antioxidant properties

The antioxidants in African carrot leaves protect your skin from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays.
These antioxidants neutralize free radicals that cause premature aging and dullness.
Regular use of products containing these leaves can strengthen your skin’s natural defense mechanisms, keeping it vibrant and healthy.

Hydration benefits

African carrot leaves also have hydrating properties that help keep your skin moisturized.
They prevent moisture loss by strengthening the skin barrier, making them ideal for people with dry or dehydrated skin.
Including these leaves in your skincare routine can help maintain optimal hydration levels, resulting in smoother and softer skin.

Anti-inflammatory effects

The anti-inflammatory properties of African carrot leaves are great for calming irritated or sensitive skin. They reduce redness and swelling caused by conditions like acne or eczema.
Using skincare products with these leaves can make your complexion more even and less prone to breakouts.

Easy incorporation tips

Incorporating African carrot leaves into your skincare routine is easy.
You can make a simple face mask by blending fresh leaves with honey or yogurt for added benefits.
Alternatively, look for serums or creams containing extracts of these leaves as an easy way to reap their benefits without any hassle in your daily regimen.

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10 Everyday Habits That Make Your Skin Age Faster

10 Everyday Habits That Make Your Skin Age Faster

We often think of wrinkles, fine lines, and dullness as inevitable signs of aging, but in reality, many of these changes are accelerated by the way we live each day. The skin is our body’s largest organ, and it reflects not only our genetics but also our choices – what we eat, how we sleep, the stress we carry, and even the environments we expose ourselves to. While time will naturally leave its mark, certain lifestyle habits can push the process into fast‑forward, making skin look older long before its time. Understanding these hidden culprits is the first step toward protecting your skin’s health and preserving its youthful glow. (Image: AI-Generated)

Lack of Quality Sleep: Sleep is when your body repairs itself, including your skin. If you consistently get less than 7-8 hours of rest, your skin’s natural healing process is disrupted. This can lead to dullness, fine lines, and dark circles. Late‑night scrolling or binge‑watching often cuts into sleep, suppressing melatonin and increasing cortisol, both of which accelerate aging. (Image: AI-Generated)

Skipping Sunscreen: One of the most damaging habits is neglecting daily sun protection. Ultraviolet (UV) rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and pigmentation. Even on cloudy days or indoors near windows, UV exposure silently harms your skin. Without sunscreen, these effects accumulate over time, making your skin look older than it should. (Image: AI-Generated)

Poor Diet Choices: Processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats contribute to inflammation and glycation, a process where sugar molecules damage collagen and elastin fibers. This results in loss of firmness and elasticity. A diet lacking in antioxidants, vitamins, and lean proteins deprives your skin of the nutrients it needs to stay youthful. (Image: AI-Generated)

Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol dehydrates the skin and dilates blood vessels, causing redness and puffiness. Over time, it reduces vitamin A levels, which are essential for cell renewal. Chronic drinking accelerates fine lines and makes skin appear tired and uneven. (Image: AI-Generated)

Smoking: Smoking is one of the fastest ways to age your skin. Nicotine narrows blood vessels, reducing oxygen and nutrient supply. The repetitive motion of inhaling also contributes to wrinkles around the mouth. Long‑term smokers often develop a dull, leathery complexion due to collagen breakdown. (Image: AI-Generated)

Constant Screen Exposure: Blue light from phones, laptops, and tablets penetrates deeper than UV rays, contributing to oxidative stress and pigmentation. Combined with late‑night scrolling, it disrupts sleep cycles, compounding the damage. (Image: AI-Generated)

Chronic Stress: Stress hormones like cortisol trigger inflammation and break down collagen. Persistent stress can lead to acne flare‑ups, dryness, and premature wrinkles. Without stress management techniques, your skin reflects the toll of emotional strain. (Image: AI-Generated)

Neglecting Skincare Routine: Skipping cleansing, moisturizing, or exfoliation leaves your skin vulnerable to pollutants and free radicals. Over time, dirt and toxins accumulate, accelerating dullness and fine lines. A consistent skincare routine is essential to protect and rejuvenate the skin barrier. (Image: AI-Generated)

Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity reduces circulation, meaning fewer nutrients and oxygen reach the skin. Exercise boosts collagen production and helps flush out toxins. Without it, skin can appear pale, saggy, and less resilient. (Image: AI-Generated)

Overconsumption of Caffeine: While moderate coffee intake has benefits, too much caffeine dehydrates the skin and disrupts sleep. Dehydration emphasizes fine lines and makes skin look fatigued. (Image: AI-Generated)

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Sesderma C-VIT 5 Liposomal Serum Redefines Innovation In Skincare

Sesderma C-VIT 5 Liposomal Serum Redefines Innovation In Skincare

As the skincare industry evolves toward smarter, more targeted, and results-driven solutions, Sesderma remains firmly at the forefront of this transformation. By seamlessly integrating advanced technologies such as nanotechnology and liposomal delivery with clinically backed actives, the brand continues to set benchmarks in efficacy, safety, and performance. Each formulation is designed with accuracy, making sure that innovation translates into visible, meaningful results, while upholding the highest standards of dermatological integrity and long-term skin health.

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Beyond Lohri: Winter Skin Wisdom That Keeps Your Glow Alive | Beauty News

The Science Of Circadian Skincare: Repairing Winter Skin While You Sleep | Beauty News

Last Updated:January 19, 2026, 11:32 IST

From ceramides to retinoids, here’s how to sync your winter skincare routine with your skin’s natural repair clock.

Cold winds, low humidity, and indoor heating all work against the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable

Winter skincare is often reduced to ‘richer creams’ and ‘extra hydration,’ but the real game-changer lies in timing. Our skin follows a circadian rhythm – an internal clock that dictates when it protects itself and when it repairs. Ignoring this rhythm, especially in colder months, can slow recovery, weaken the skin barrier, and make dryness, irritation, and fine lines more visible.

Circadian skincare is about working with the skin’s natural repair cycles rather than overwhelming it. And in winter, when cold air, indoor heating, and low humidity challenge the skin’s resilience, aligning your nighttime routine with these biological processes becomes even more essential.

What Circadian Skincare Really Means

“Circadian skincare is working with your body’s circadian rhythm, or internal clock, to personalize your skincare regimen as suitable for day and night,” explains Dr. Varshini Reddy, Founder and Chief Dermatologist of Glow Clinic, Hyderabad. During the day, skin focuses on defence by producing more sebum and shielding itself from UV rays, pollution, and free radicals. At night, however, the skin shifts into repair mode, with increased cell turnover and higher receptivity to active ingredients.

Winter complicates this rhythm. As Dr. Reddy notes, colder temperatures impair skin cell repair and lipid replenishment, making overnight recovery slower and less efficient unless supported correctly.

Why Winter Disrupts Skin Repair

Cold, dry air increases transepidermal water loss, weakening the skin’s protective barrier. “Lipids are not replenished as easily in winter due to cold, dry air,” Dr. Reddy explains, adding that compromised enzymatic activity affects ceramide and fatty acid production. The result is dehydration, increased inflammation, and flare-ups of conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

This is why winter skin often feels tight, sensitive, and dull – even when using products that worked well in summer.

Night-Time Ingredients That Truly Work

“At night, ingredients that support repair and barrier recovery work best,” says Dr. Rashmi Sriram, Dermatologist at Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru. She recommends barrier-strengthening ceramides, deeply hydrating humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, and calming agents such as niacinamide and colloidal oatmeal.

She adds that winter moisturisers should balance humectants, which draw moisture into the skin, with occlusives that seal it in – ensuring hydration lasts through the night when the skin is actively regenerating.

Building The Ideal Winter Night Routine

According to Dr. Abhishek Pilani, Founder of Assure Clinic, Mumbai, a circadian-aligned winter routine should be gentle, layered, and barrier-focused. He suggests starting with a mild, non-foaming cleanser, followed by a hydrating toner or essence for dry skin types. Treatment serums, like niacinamide or gentle retinoids, should be alternated to avoid irritation.

The routine should end with a ceramide-rich moisturiser and, for extremely dry areas, a thin occlusive layer such as squalane or petrolatum. Dr. Pilani also emphasises environmental support: sleeping in a cooler room and using a humidifier can significantly enhance overnight skin repair.

Why Timing Matters More Than Trends

Circadian skincare isn’t about adding more products. It’s about using the right ones at the right time. When winter routines respect the skin’s natural repair window, inflammation reduces, hydration improves, and the barrier rebuilds more efficiently.

Winter skin thrives on rhythm, not excess. By aligning your night routine with the skin’s circadian repair cycle and focusing on hydration, barrier support, and gentle regeneration, you allow the skin to heal itself more effectively. In colder months, this harmony between biology and skincare is what transforms dryness into resilience and fatigue into glow.

Location :

Delhi, India, India

First Published:

January 19, 2026, 11:32 IST

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Are you getting enough vitamin C? Here's how much you really need

Are you getting enough vitamin C? Here’s how much you really need

Which food comes to mind first when you think of vitamin C? Lemons? Oranges? Although both citrus fruits are good sources of vitamin C, they are actually in the middle of the ranking of foods richest in vitamin C. “It is often underestimated that vegetables contain the most vitamin C. First and foremost: peppers. Just one covers the average daily requirement of an adult,” says Dr Anne Gürtler, dermatologist and nutritionist from Munich. She adds, “Broccoli, Brussels sprouts and currants are also particularly rich in vitamin C.”

How much vitamin C does the body need and why?

“Vitamin C requirements are often overestimated,” says Dr Gürtler, pointing out that the DGE (German Nutrition Society) recommends an average of 100 milligrams, with women needing a little less than men although the requirement increases for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The same applies to smokers. “Because they have such high oxidative stress due to nicotine, you can add another 40-50 milligrams per day on top,” she says.

Speaking of oxidative stress, vitamin C is an antioxidant. “This means that it neutralises free radicals in the body, protects the cells from damage and thus, counteracts inflammatory processes and premature (skin) ageing,” says Dr Gürtler. “Put simply, vitamin C releases an electron to aggressive molecules, which in turn lack an electron – thereby rendering them harmless.”

“In addition, vitamin C is essential for cell proliferation and cell differentiation, processes that are also central to the health and regeneration of the skin. Furthermore, recent studies in cancer biology indicate that vitamin C has modulating properties: it can act on enzymes that play a crucial role in gene expression,” explains Dr Anne Gürtler. In relation to the skin, vitamin C is relevant on several levels: “It is a key factor fin boosting the structure, elasticity and regenerative capacity of the skin.”

How useful are dietary supplements?

The body cannot produce vitamin C itself, so it relies on us to supply it. “It is absorbed via receptors in the small intestine,” explains Dr Gürtler. However, these receptors only have a limited absorption capacity and are saturated at some point. This means that above a certain amount, vitamin C is no longer absorbed.

“These transport mechanisms function optimally up to around 200 milligrams per day, after which absorption barely increases. Even if you consume more vitamin C, no more of it enters the body. This shows that excessive intake, for example via high-dose supplements generally has little additional benefit,” says the doctor.

What happens in the event of an overdose?

A genuine overdose of vitamin C is unlikely, says Dr Gürtler: “As it is water-soluble, the body cannot store excess amounts and they are excreted via the kidneys. This is precisely why vitamin C is generally well tolerated.”

However, very high doses (especially in the form of supplements) can lead to side effects. These include gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhea, flatulence or abdominal cramps. In individuals with prolonged high intake, vitamin C can also promote the formation of kidney stones, especially in people who are already susceptible to them.

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Nature’s secret to hydrated, radiant, and resilient skin

Nature’s secret to hydrated, radiant, and resilient skin

In the modern lifestyle, maintaining a consistent skincare routine is essential for keeping your skin moisturised and glowing. Among all the core steps involved in a skincare routine, hydration stands out as a fundamental foundation. A naturally hydrated skin supports skin’s elasticity, strengthens its barrier and enhances how skin feels from the inside. To maintain the skin’s moisture and keep it fresh throughout the day, Aloe vera gel helps provide instant relief to dry skin, is skin-friendly, and works as a daily moisturiser.

Aloe vera gel is composed of nearly 99% water, making them an instant source of hydration and the best cooling agent. They help lock in moisture by forming a protective layer on the skin, preventing water loss and ensuring long-lasting hydration without clogging pores.

Beyond hydration, aloe vera also supports healing, protection, and the restoration of the skin’s natural moisture balance, keeping it glowy throughout the day. Its unique ability to deliver deep, soothing texture has made it a timeless favourite in skincare. The hero ingredient works to restore skin’s structure, improving tone and resilience while softening the appearance of fine lines. While scientific research on its efficacy is still limited, dermatologists and consumers alike widely recognise aloe vera’s benefits, making it a staple in beauty and personal-care products worldwide.

(Insert expert’s name) from Himalaya Wellness emphasises that aloe vera based skincare products are more than just a passing trend, and they are becoming an essential self-care ritual. With aloe vera as a star performer, these hydration-focused products help shield the skin from environmental stressors, strengthen the natural barrier, promote healing, and deliver a healthy, radiant glow.

1) Accelerates Healing:

Aloe vera not only soothes and refreshes the skin but also supports its natural repair process, helping to calm damage caused by dryness, stress, or environmental factors. Aloe vera and its products are rich in antioxidants, neutralises skin radicals and help to maintain skin’s essential moisture. With every use, skin feels cooler, softer, and visibly healthier, making aloe vera a true everyday essential for radiant resilience.

2) Moisturises the skin

Light-weight in nature, aloe vera delivers intense moisture that helps in keeping the skin soft and hydrated without clogging the pores. Perfect for everyday use, it certainly penetrates deep into the skin, which would help to restore balance from within that helps to keep the skin supple, fresh and naturally radiant.

3) Healing properties and soothes irritation

Widely used in skincare and beauty essentials, aloe is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds. As an ingredient, it helps soothe irritation, leaving the skin calm and comforted. Gentle and free from harsh chemicals, aloe-based formulations are especially suited for sensitive skin and everyday care.

4) Enhances Radiance

Aloe vera based products help to nourish the skin, smooth its texture, and enhance its natural luminosity. Supporting skin renewal, it helps fade dullness, even out tone, and helps to restore a healthy glow from within.

5) Improves Skin Elasticity

With consistent use, aloe vera supports collagen production and nourishes the skin with vitamins C, E, and amino acids. This helps improve firmness, promotes smoother, plumper, and more youthful-looking skin.

Hydration is the foundation of every skincare routine, and aloe vera is one of nature’s most effective and gentle moisturisers. Whether in a daily face wash or a soothing body gel, it works beneath the surface to nourish, calm, and replenish the skin. With long-term benefits, chemical-free care and versatile use, aloe vera is a trusted solution for multiple beauty needs, reducing reliance on expensive products or frequent salon visits.

(The writer is a Senior Research Scientist, R&D Himalaya Wellness Company)

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Glamour South Africa

6 Everyday skincare habits that will improve your skin health over time

Whether you’re a skincare fanatic or simply want to start taking your skincare seriously, developing – and breaking – certain habits is a great way to start or improve your skincare journey. Achieving and maintaining glowing, healthy skin isn’t just about finding the perfect product – it’s about creating a routine that works for you, and sticking to it. While there’s no secret formula for perfect skin, developing small, consistent habits can make a difference over time. 

The world of skincare doesn’t have to feel like rocket science, when it comes to figuring out your skin. Sometimes all it takes is to break or develop a few habits. Luckily, we’re here to walk you through six skincare habits you can easily incorporate into your daily routine, helping you nurture your skin and boost its natural radiance. From the basics to some simple but often overlooked steps, these tips will give you the foundation for glowing skin that looks and feels amazing.

Sunscreen

If you haven’t incorporated sunscreen into your daily routine, this is your sign to start doing so. Sunscreen is a must, no matter what the weather. UV rays can damage skin even on cloudy days, leading to premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Make it a habit to apply broad-spectrum SPF every morning, and reapply every two to three hours when outdoors. 

Make it a habit to apply broad-spectrum SPF every morning, and reapply every two to three hours when outdoors, Image: Instagram/@boozyshop

Cleanse twice daily

Yes, life gets busy, and a set skincare routine is at the bottom of your priority list, or you simply don’t see the need to wash your face in the evening; so you just don’t do it. But imagine what all the dirt, oil and sweat from the long day you had does to your skin overnight? Normalise cleansing your face twice a day – morning and night. Cleansing twice a day is the foundation of any good skincare routine, and helps remove dirt, oil and impurities.

Normalise cleansing your face twice a day – morning and night, Image: Instagram/@melinda_melrose

Use lukewarm water for cleansing

As good as it may feel, unfortunately hot water is not good for your face; hence washing your face in the shower is not ideal. The skin on your face is more prone to skin reactions. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Always use lukewarm water to cleanse your face, to maintain your skin’s moisture balance.

Always use lukewarm water to cleanse your face, to maintain your skin’s moisture balance, Image: Instagram/@hannahillierphotography

Avoid overloading your skin with product

We live in a world where we’re constantly introduced to new skincare products and techniques, and it can be tempting to try them all at once. You probably have a 10-step skincare routine, but don’t see any results. That may be because your skin is irritated and overwhelmed. Using too much product can irritate the skin, causing it to break out. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a time-consuming skincare routine for fresh, glowing skin. It’s best to keep your routine simple, and gradually introduce new products to see how your skin reacts. 

It’s best to keep your routine simple, and gradually introduce new products to see how your skin reacts, Image: Instagram/@dariamorma

Change your pillowcase

Looks are deceiving; and that goes for your pillowcase, too. It may look clean, but it’s not. It can accumulate dirt, oil, sweat and bacteria from your skin and hair. When you sleep, your face comes into direct contact with the pillow, and all those impurities can clog your pores and contribute to breakouts. By changing your pillowcase regularly, you minimise the risk of this build-up. 

By changing your pillowcase regularly, you minimise the risk of this build-up, Image: Instagram/@sunday.citizen

Don’t pop your pimples

If there’s one habit that’s hard to get rid of, it’s pimple-popping. We know; it’s tempting, and satisfying, and sometimes you can’t help it. But it’s not worth the long-lasting dark spots, and the mental toll that comes with getting rid of them.

Some great ways to break the habit:

  • Self-control
  • Don’t spend hours nitpicking your face. You’re bound to find something to scrutinise.
  • When you’re doing your skincare routine, stand a few steps away from the mirror. If you don’t see the flaws, you won’t have the urge to pick at them. Out of sight, out of mind.
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