Repeat after me: there’s no time like the present to start the following long-term, preventative and absolutely essential beauty practices. So what are you waiting for?
#1 Wear sunscreen daily
No matter the shade of your skin, applying sunscreen every single day is the utmost important beauty practice to implement in your routine. Not only does it prevent sunburn and skin cancer, but it’s also the best anti-ageing product on the market. A moisturiser with SPF will do the trick.
bh recommends: Ultraderm All In One Balm SPF 15+, NIVEA CELLULAR Anti-Age Day Cream SPF15, Alpha-H Daily Essential Moisturiser SPF 30+
#2 Don’t neglect your hands, neck or décolletage
Looking after your hands, neck and décolletage is just as important as looking after the skin on your face, as they are often the first areas to show signs of ageing. Get into the habit of moisturising all three areas every time you moisturise your face, so they age just as gracefully. Bonus points if you use something with broad-spectrum sun protection.
bh recommends: Ella Bache Moisture Bath Hand Renew, Jurlique Herbal Recovery Neck Serum, Skin Republic Neck + Décolletage Repair
#3 Exfoliate just the right amount
Over-exfoliating your skin can lead to broken capillaries as well as dry, irritated and inflamed skin. On the other hand, under-exfoliating can leave skin dull, clogged and full of blackheads. Exfoliating just the right amount, however, will ensure skin stays clear, healthy and glowing. As a general rule, twice a week is best for most skin types.
bh recommends: Dermalogica Gentle Cream Exfoliant, Clinique 7 Day Scrub Cream Rinse-Off Formula, Neutrogena Naturals Purifying Pore Scrub
#4 Stop picking your face
It takes a hell of a lot of self-control to not pick that large, inflamed pimple that’s smack bang in the middle of your forehead. But it’s super important to keep your hands to yourself as picking can often lead to scarring. You also want to avoid spreading the bacteria that causes acne.
#5 Use eye cream
Even if you’re in your 20s, an eye cream should be an essential part of your skin care routine. It will help keep the delicate skin around your eyes hydrated, plump and young-looking.
bh recommends: Kiehl’s Abyssine Eye Cream +, Lab Series Age Rescue Eye Therapy, Garnier Miracle Skin Cream Eye
#6 Invest in a silk pillowcase
Thought sleeping on a silk pillowcase just felt wonderful? There are also plenty of anti-ageing benefits of silk for your skin, and it’s darn good for your hair, too.
bh recommends: Lilysilk 19 Momme Terse Silk Pillowcase
#7 Ensure you get your beauty sleep
Beauty sleep is a real thing. Overnight, your body repairs itself, increasing blood flow and collagen production. The more sleep you get, the better you’ll look and feel in the morning. For plump skin and healthy, shiny hair, aim for eight hours a night.
#8 Braid your hair overnight
To wake up with effortless beach waves in the morning, braid your hair overnight. Not only will this keep your hair off your face and blemish-causing oil at bay, but it will also ensure tresses remain tangle-free.
#9 Let your hair air-dry
If you’re a serial heat-styler, give your hair a break and let your locks air-dry. If you can’t bear to go au naturel, let your tresses dry partially before you blow-dry. This will minimise damage to your hair and ensure it remains as healthy and shiny as possible.
#10 Start laser now
Laser hair removal doesn’t offer instant results, but if you start now, by next summer your skin will be as smooth as a baby’s bottom. It’s a super cost-effective, long-term hair removal option. You’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.
Do you do any of the above? Which practice are you going to implement in your routine this summer?
