Ways to maintain your skin

Some habits are essential in order to have a healthy and radiant skin. To be able to take care of your skin, you need to be able to choose products designed for your skin type. For example dry skin does not have the same needs as an oily skin. It might also interest you to know that skin care is more than just cleaning it and using lotion. It involves enough sleep exercise and the ability to manage your stress levels. Sometimes it may look like your skin is impossible to manage especially when there are lots of pimples, acne and so on. A pimple starts when pores become clogged with a type of oil called sebum which normally lubricates the hair and the skin.Acne is very common in puberty when hormones go haywire causing the skin to overproduce sebum. Because oil producing glands are at the forehead, nose and chin they are prone to pimples. Groundnut does not cause pimples!. 

1. Wash your face twice daily with warm water and mild soap. Gently massage in circular motion do not scrub as scrubbing can cause the skin to be irritated.
2. Do not pop your pimples, I know it is tempting as i have also being a victim, do not pop as it may lead to further infection, swelling and black spots.
3. Remove your makeup before going to bed, keep hair out of your face to prevent additional dirt from clogging your pores.
4. Bath with lukewarm water. Hot water may feel relaxing but can damage your skin by striping them of natural oil leading to a dry and patchy skin. For those with dry skin use moisturizing body wash containing almond, coconut or olive oil.
5. Apply your lotion while your skin is still damp. It is recommended that you use facial creams for your face and body lotions or butter for the body. Depending on the season, you should change the type of moisturizer or reduce the quantity you apply. For example if you apply the quantity needed during harmattan in this hot weather and on getting to the office the ac is undergoing maintenance, well OYO(on your own) is your case. So a lighter or reduced quantity or moisturizer when it is hot and an increased or heavier when cold.
6. Water-this is one skin care product without adverse effects, no overdose and is very essential. Drink water, enough water, it does not have overdose. Keep yourself hydrated, if you can finish one gallon please drink. It will not only leave your skin looking youthful but will make it bright and glowing. It may also reduce acne and keep your skin very clear.
7. Fruits and vegetables- they are great for your skin and good to be consumed daily not only when sick or as a gift for someone in the hospital. They are full of antioxidants, vitamins and so on. Did you know that toxins in the body can lead to poor skin? Pepper contains antioxidant,green leafy vegetables, tomatoes etc.
8. Sleep- get enough sleep like 6-8 hours of sleep each night. Not getting enough sleep can make your skin appear dull and also results to bags and shadows under your eyes. Less sleep produces  wrinkles and eye puffiness.
9. Reduce stress-  stress leads to acne, breakouts and many more, take a walk, watch or read jokes, meditate, try some breathing exercise.
10. Daily workout- exercise is not only for those trying to loose weight, it is good for the skin. Try to get at least few hours of exercise daily.
11. Avoid being in the sun for long
12. Quit smoking and getting high
13. Stop bleaching