I’m a dermatologist – a common nighttime ‘no-no’ can trigger faster skin aging – fixing it is a non-negotiable
A DERMATOLOGIST has given her top advice for steering clear of damaging delicate skin.
She said that a common practice can be a culprit behind signs of aging, warning beauty fans to keep it out of their routines.
Dr. Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD gave her two cents on a skincare issue that she sees all too often.
KEEP IT CLEAN
“Washing your face nightly,” she said.
“Sleeping with an unwashed face is a big “no-no”. Throughout the day, bacteria, sweat, oil and dirt can accumulate on your skin.”
She said that cosmetic fans should pay extra attention to this missed step in nighttime routines.
“For people that wear makeup, the amount of debris accumulation is even worse,” she warned.
“Having these particles on your skin interferes with the skins ability to renew and repair itself, and the free-radicals that collect on skin can also trigger faster skin aging.
“Sleeping with makeup or an unwashed face increases your risk of skin inflammation and infection.”
Many people skip out on washing their faces at night due to exhaustion from the day, but Dr. Nazarian maintains that it must be kept on the to-do list.
“Tired or not, washing your face before bedtime is a nonnegotiable,” she said.
EXPERTS AGREE
Sleeping with makeup on can not only clog pores, but the inflammation can lead to premature aging.
Additionally, those who live an active lifestyle may find an excess of oil production on their face, requiring a good wash to get it off.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) also recommends face washing before bed.
According to the CDC, the average person touches their face upwards of 23 times per hour.
A thorough cleansing can not only prevent aging, but also keep harmful pathogens at bay.
Unwanted debris that cling to the complexion throughout the day can be removed with the appropriate face wash for each skin type.
PUT OUT THE FIRE
Dr. Nazarian also recommended steering clear of a bad habit that can seriously damage the skin.
“No smoking,” she said.
“Most people are aware that smoking can increase your risk of lung cancer, but what might motivate some more is knowing that smoking can also increase skin aging and the risk of skin cancer.
“Decreased collagen, increased wrinkles, and sagging skin befalls people who smoke.
“So add those to your list of the million reasons to skip smoking altogether.”