My Skin Is So Bad: Ways That You Are Wrecking Your Skin

Do you find yourself looking in the mirror and thinking ‘my skin is so bad’? You’re not alone.

Our skin is one of the most fragile parts of our body, but many of us are guilty of mistreating it. Whether you’re a fan of self-tanning or can’t resist picking at blackheads, you’re probably unaware of the long-lasting damage you might be causing. We’ve put together a list of ways that you are probably wrecking your skin.

1. Staying in the sun

2 in 3 Australians are diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70

Spending too long in the sun has potential to cause irreversible damage to the mantle of your skin. From sunburn, to liver spots and even cancer, the sun is something you should be wary of.

Limit the risks

Use sunscreen every day | Avoid peak sun | Sit in the shade | Cover up when you can

2. Tanning beds

Tanning beds increase the risk of developing melanoma by 75%

Tanning beds are a popular way to top up your sun tan, but did you know they come with a whole list of risks, and they can even make your skin age faster?

Limit the risks

Avoid tanning beds | Choose alternatives like spray tanning

3. Smoking

Smoking is responsible for more cancer deaths in Australia than any other factor

If you’re thinking ‘my skin is so bad’, it could be caused by a habit you hadn’t even considered. Smoking isn’t just bad for your lungs, it can have a huge impact on the health and vitality of skin, causing premature skin ageing, wrinkles and infections.

Limit the risks

Take steps to stop smoking

4. Using the wrong products

Everyone’s skin is different, so you should be using products which meet your specific needs.

Limit the risks

Switch to products that are right for your skin type

5. Not being gentle enough

Some of us are downright cruel to our skin – scrubbing away at it and damaging it. Being too rough with your skin can cause breakouts, broken skin, and dryness.

Limit the risks

Don’t scrub your face hard | Apply cleansers gently

6. Being stressed

If you find yourself thinking ‘my skin is so bad’ on a regular basis, stress is one of the most common causes. Stress affects the whole body, and the skin is no exception. Stress can cause skin sensitivity and breakouts.

Limit the risks

Don’t neglect your skin in times of stress | Try stress reduction techniques

7. Picking and popping

Acne affects 85% of Australians aged 15 – 24 years old

It’s tempting to go to town on spots when they crop up, but you shouldn’t. Popping and picking at spots causes scarring and worsens existing skin conditions

Limit the risks

Leave your pimples alone | Use gentle products

My skin is so bad: How to look after your skin

Now we’ve seen how you might be wrecking your skin, let’s go over how you can look after it better. Our top tips for excellent skin care are:

Wear sunscreen daily – this will limit the impact of the suns harmful UV rays
Stay hydrated – drinking enough water will keep your skin supple and healthy
Exercise – exercise is good for more than just your waistline, it keeps skin tight and radiant
Get professional treatments – put down the DIY skincare and treat yourself to a spa day