6 Bad Beauty Habits That Are Getting In Your Way of Healthy, Glowing Skin

Improving your complexion is easier than you think.

By Diana Cina

Bad beauty habits

Sure, you know your skincare essentials: removing makeup, washing and moisturizing twice a day, eating well and staying hydrated. But are you sabotaging your good habits with bad skin behaviour? Dermatologist Dr. Lisa Kellett of DLK on Avenue in Toronto shares her top picks for bad habits we need to break, now.

1.  Picking at the skin

Never pick at your skin, says Dr. Kellett. “Picking can cause scarring and infection,” she explains, “and the skin doesn’t heal properly.” It’s important to note that acne scarring is actually caused by picking and not the acne itself, Dr. Kellett notes-so keep hands off for clearer skin.

2.  Sun tanning

“Sun tanning contributes to skin cancer and aging,” says Dr. Kellett. As for whether tanning beds or natural sunlight is worse, she makes it simple: “both are bad!” Dr. Kellett is a strong proponent of daily use of sunblock that’s SPF 30 or higher, “whether it’s spring, summer, fall or winter.”

3.  Extractions

According to Dr. Kellett, removing blackheads, either during a facial or privately at home, is the leading cause of cyst formation, infection and scarring-and she doesn’t recommend doing it at all. Extractions can harm the skin tissue around the blemish and have only a short-term effect. “Studies have shown that [blackheads] fill up again within 48 hours,” says Dr. Kellett.

4.  Over-moisturizing acne-prone skin

Many people with acne find their skin is dry and use lotions or creams to moisturize their faces, notes Dr. Kellett. In fact, she says, this might make matters worse and actually cause breakouts. She suggests that those with acne or acne-prone skin use gels for moisturizing, with the best option being an “oil-free, water-based gel.”

5.  At-home skin devices

People who purchase machines or devices for skin correction often don’t fully understand how to use them. Dr. Kellett says that the average person is “too aggressive” with the device on the skin. The misuse of these tools can lead to skin irritation or damage.

6.  Overuse of skincare products

Many of us are are applying far too many products to the skin, Dr. Kellett says, which can create more problems than they were meant to solve. Women will sometimes put multiple serums, lotions and toners on the face for anti-aging purposes. Dr. Kellett recommends simplifying your routine with a vitamin A-based product for day and a vitamin B-based one for night.

From Best Health