Discover the Common Habits That Damage Your Skin and How to Fix Them for Healthier, Glowing Skin.
Korean beauty and skincare have become global phenomena, especially due to their reputation for clear, youthful skin. One of the most trusted experts in the field, Dr. Lee Sang-Uk, a dermatologist with over 10 years of experience in Seoul’s Gangnam district, is sharing invaluable insights into effective skincare. Dr. Lee’s YouTube channel, where he openly discusses safe, professional, and non-commercial skincare advice, has grown to over 710,000 subscribers worldwide. His mission is simple: to help everyone achieve healthy skin, no matter where they are. Through his expertise, Dr. Lee not only provides tips for at-home skincare but also guides when professional intervention is necessary.
However, in a competitive society like Korea, where beauty and skincare are taken very seriously, there are many cases of unnecessary treatments being pushed by some practitioners who are more concerned about making money than genuine skin health. Dr. Lee stands apart by offering straightforward, honest advice based solely on his medical knowledge, without the commercial fluff. This transparency and focus on skin health have made him an immensely popular figure, not only in Korea but across the globe.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of the most common habits that can damage your skin and how to break them. These tips, based on Dr. Lee’s professional experience, are safe, effective, and perfect for anyone looking to improve their skin health. Share this article with friends and family who are interested in skincare!
Source:Â https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFth2KVm1I4
1. Ignoring Sweat After Exercise
When you work out, your body releases sweat, which contains not just moisture, but also salt and toxins. Most people tend to wipe off sweat with a towel, but this doesn’t remove all the impurities. Left on your skin, these substances can clog pores and cause skin issues like acne or irritation.
What to do: Always rinse your face with water after sweating. Avoid using harsh cleansers or face wipes, as these can strip the skin of essential oils. Simply splash water on your face to wash away the sweat and follow up with a hydrating moisturizer.
2. Showering with Hot Water
Hot showers might feel relaxing, but prolonged exposure to hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even inflammation. This can also weaken your skin’s protective barrier over time.
What to do: Use lukewarm water for your shower and limit your shower time to 5-10 minutes. If you’re using a face cleanser, make sure it’s gentle and avoid using harsh scrubs that can further damage the skin.
3. Using Too Much Cleansing Foam
While cleansing is essential, overusing foam cleansers or soaps can damage your skin’s protective barrier. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, causing it to become dry and more prone to irritation or infection.
What to do: Stick to a gentle, non-foaming cleanser, especially if you’re washing your face multiple times a day. After cleansing, always apply a hydrating moisturizer to lock in moisture and protect your skin.
4. Overusing Sauna or Hot Tubs
While saunas can offer short-term relaxation, spending too much time in hot environments can cause long-term skin damage. Prolonged exposure to high heat can cause blood vessels to expand, leading to redness and potentially permanent conditions like rosacea.
What to do: Limit your sauna or hot tub sessions to 10-15 minutes at a time. If you experience redness or irritation, it’s best to take a break and cool down.
5. Picking or Squeezing Pimples
It can be tempting to pick at blemishes, but this only makes things worse. Squeezing pimples can lead to scarring, hyperpigmentation, and even deeper infections in the skin.
What to do: Resist the urge to pick or pop pimples. If you absolutely need to remove a blemish, consult a dermatologist for professional advice. They can safely extract pimples without causing damage to your skin.
6. Touching Your Face with Dirty Hands
Your hands carry bacteria and oils, which can easily transfer to your face, causing breakouts or skin irritation. Constantly touching your face with unwashed hands can exacerbate these issues.
What to do: Make a habit of washing your hands frequently and avoid touching your face, especially when you’re out and about. If you do need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
7. Wearing a Face Mask for Too Long
Face masks can hydrate and nourish your skin, but leaving them on for too long can lead to skin problems. Prolonged use may cause the skin to become overly hydrated, leading to irritation or breakouts.
What to do: Stick to a maximum of 20 minutes when using face masks. This allows your skin to absorb the nutrients without overwhelming it. Always remove the mask promptly and follow up with your regular skincare routine.
8. Excessive Use of Multiple Skincare Products
It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of multiple skincare products, but using too many different creams, serums, or treatments at once can overwhelm your skin. Sometimes, less is more. Overloading your skin with products can lead to clogged pores or other skin issues.
What to do: Choose a few key products that work well for your skin type. Focus on hydration, sun protection, and a good cleanser. Using too many different treatments at once can create unnecessary stress for your skin.
Final Thoughts:
Achieving great skin requires more than just using the latest products. It’s about adopting healthy habits and consistently taking care of your skin. Avoiding the bad habits mentioned above will go a long way in ensuring your skin stays healthy, radiant, and youthful.
If you found these tips helpful, don’t forget to share them with your friends and family who are interested in skincare. Small changes in your routine can lead to big improvements in your skin’s health!
By following Dr. Lee’s expert advice, you can avoid these common mistakes and set your skin up for success. Remember, skincare is a long-term commitment, and consistency is key!