We all want healthy, glowing skin, but sometimes the biggest threats come from the things we do every single day without thinking. From skipping sunscreen to using harsh skincare products, your routine might be doing more harm than good.
If you’re looking to improve your complexion, reduce signs of aging, and support scar healing, here are five common skin-damaging habits, and what to do instead.
1. Not Getting Enough Sleep
Why It’s Bad:
Sleep is when your body repairs and regenerates, including your skin. Lack of sleep increases cortisol levels, which can lead to inflammation, breakouts, and premature aging.
How to Fix It:
Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a calming bedtime routine, reduce screen time before bed, and keep your sleep environment cool, quiet, and dark.
2. Not Drinking Enough Water
Why It’s Bad:
Dehydrated skin looks dull, feels tight, and can highlight fine lines. Without enough water, your skin can’t flush out toxins or maintain elasticity.
How to Fix It:
Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and eat hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens. Keep a water bottle nearby to encourage regular sipping.
3. Using Harsh Cleansers
Why It’s Bad:
Over-cleansing or using products with alcohol, sulfates, or strong acids can strip your skin’s protective barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity.
How to Fix It:
Choose a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser with soothing ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, or aloe vera. Wash your face twice daily, morning and night, and avoid hot water.
4. Touching Your Face Constantly
Why It’s Bad:
Your hands carry dirt, oil, and bacteria. Touching your face transfers all of that to your skin, clogging pores and causing breakouts or irritation.
How to Fix It:
Be mindful of this habit. Keep your hands clean, sanitize your phone regularly, and avoid resting your chin or cheek on your hands during the day.
5. Skipping Sunscreen
Why It’s Bad:
Sun exposure causes 80% of visible aging. Even on cloudy days or indoors, UV rays can penetrate windows and damage your skin, causing hyperpigmentation and increasing your risk of skin cancer.
How to Fix It:
Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outside, and don’t forget areas like your neck, ears, and hands.
Final Thoughts
Great skin isn’t just about what you apply on the surface, it’s about the choices you make every day. These small habits, when adjusted, can make a major difference in the long-term health and appearance of your skin.
And if you’re dealing with scars from acne, surgery, or injuries, Scarfade® is here to help. Our silicone scar gel is clinically proven to improve the appearance of scars, giving your skin a smoother, healthier look.
Take care of your skin from the inside out, and let Scarfade help you along the way.