Self-Conscious About Your Skin? Try These Tips

Have you been struggling with your skin? Are you tired of feeling self-conscious whenever you look in the mirror? Achieving clear skin isn’t easy, and that’s because it can be challenging to know exactly what your skin needs. While there are hundreds of products advertised to give you clear skin, not every product will work for you.

Everyone’s skin is different. And you can’t always go with what’s featured on Instagram or TikTok. Instead, focus on the science behind achieving clear skin. This article offers tips backed by science to help you fall in love with your skin.

1. Treat Hyperpigmentation

Do you have dark spots on your face? You’re not alone. Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, are common. But not many people don’t know exactly what hyperpigmentation is. The skin gets its color from melanin, a substance made by skin cells. When these cells are damaged, more melanin is produced, which can clump together and cause dark spots.

Several conditions can cause hyperpigmentation. One of the most common causes is melasma. Typically the result of hormonal changes during pregnancy, melasma commonly appears on the cheeks, forehead, and nose. Thankfully, there are treatments for this common pigmentation disorder, like applying tretinoin or azelaic acid.

It’s important to note that melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation can also result from sun damage. That’s why it’s important to protect yourself from the sun by applying sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and being mindful of how often you’re outdoors.

2. Don’t Forget to Wash Your Face

This might sound simple, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t wash their faces regularly. You may not realize it, but throughout the day, your skin comes into contact with bacteria, pollutants, and dirt. Not to mention dead skin cells build up, clogging your pores and leading to acne breakouts and itchy, dry skin. Washing your face removes these impurities, so your skin can stay healthy.

Experts recommend washing your face twice a day: once in the morning and once at night. Keep in mind, though, you can choose the best times for you. For instance, if you exercise later in the afternoon, you may choose to wait until after to wash your face for the first time. It’s up to you, but ideally, you should aim to wash your face a couple times a day.

3. Make Sure You’re Using the Right Products

When was the last time you re-assed your skincare products? If you answered, “I can’t remember,” that means it’s been too long. The products you put on your skin matter. They can have a positive impact or the opposite. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re using the right products.

The first step to perfecting your skincare regime is identifying your skin type. Do you have oily, dry, or sensitive skin? The answer to this question can help you figure out the ingredients you want in your skincare products. For instance, people with oily skin should look for products containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients will help control excess oil while still keeping your skin hydrated.

If you have dry skin, you want products that can lock in hydration so your skin stays moisturized. Lactic acid is an excellent ingredient to look out for. It works by gently exfoliating dead skin cells to improve moisture.

If you have sensitive skin, you want to be cautious about what you’re applying. Exfoliants or products with fragrances, sulfates, and preservatives, can do serious damage to sensitive skin. Avoid those and look for ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter; both can soothe inflammation.

4. Don’t Follow the Trends

While the media has many benefits, it’s all too easy to make decisions simply because they’re “trending.” Don’t make that mistake. Just because you see something on social media doesn’t mean it’s for you. Whether that’s a pair of jeans or a skincare product, it’s important to do your research.

Before buying a product, make sure you read the ingredient list. Look out for ingredients like the ones listed above that are ideal for your skin type. You should also read the reviews, not just the first two or three. Look at the bad reviews just as closely, if not more so, than the ones singing praise. It’s important you have a well-rounded idea of a product.

It’s also important not to get too caught up in packaging. Just because the product comes in a nice box with formal lettering doesn’t mean it will address all your skincare concerns. Don’t judge a book by its cover.

5. Always Test a Product

Some people make the mistake of using a product before testing it. You may be eager to give it a go, but doing a patch test first is important. A patch test is when you apply a small amount of a product to your skin, typically your arm or hand. Doing so helps you determine whether you like how a product feels and if it’s good for your skin.

You may do a patch test and realize you hate the smell. The product may make your skin feel dry after an hour. You may even experience irritation, like itchiness or redness. According to a 2021 study, it’s common for people to experience contact dermatitis from personal care products. A patch test keeps you from applying a product that could wreak havoc on your skin.

And before you ask, you don’t have to buy the product to do a patch test. Most retailers, like Ulta and Sephora, will let you apply a small amount of a product to your skin to test. Take advantage of that, so you don’t end up spending money on something you won’t use long-term.

Most people feel self-conscious about their skin from time to time. But it’s important not to let that insecurity take over your life. Instead of focusing on what you hate, focus on ways to improve your skin. The tips above are a great place to start.