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By Shilpa Bhim 

What pops into your mind when you hear the word ‘skin care’? 

Is it endless images of selfies, featuring a whole bunch of oils, serums and moisturisers? Because, same. 

But, actual skin care is more than just regularly applying lotions and potions (aka, skincare products). 

Skin is the body’s largest organ - so you want to make sure you’re looking after it properly. Think of actual skin care as a holistic regime covering everything from what you eat and drink, your sleep and exercise routines, in addition to regularly using your skincare products.

Without further ado, let’s break down the ways to look after your skin that don’t involve skincare products.

STAY HYDRATED

Did you know that up to 60% of the human adult body is water and the skin contains around 64% water?

Drinking enough water every day plays a part in maintaining skin health (and your overall health). 

Having around six to eight glasses of water is the daily recommended dose, and it will go a long way to giving you glowing skin!

KEEP YOUR DIET SKIN FRIENDLY 

You know how they always say “you are what you eat”? Well, that’s because the food you consume creates the building blocks for your skin.

A well balanced diet that incorporates a mix of vegetables, fruits, proteins, grains and healthy fats is recommended to keep your skin happy and healthy.

We shared a full breakdown of the types of food you need to consume for healthy skin here. 

AVOID PIPING HOT SHOWERS 

We know, hot showers are so soothing and relaxing. But if your skin could talk, it would tell you otherwise.

Hot water strips your skin of its natural oils, drying it out.

Opt for a lukewarm shower instead - they can still be relaxing! While you're at it, avoid using harsh soaps in the shower too.

SHADE IS YOUR NEW BFF

Yes, we all need to get our daily dose of Vitamin D from the sun. A couple of minutes here and there won’t hurt.

But the sun’s UV rays do damage our skin. Remember, UVA ages and UVB burns. 

One of the best ways to protect your skin from the sun is to stay in the shade when you’re outside. Pop on a hat, sunnies and sun-protective clothing to be extra sun-safe.

GET PLENTY OF SHUT-EYE 

Sleep! We all need it, and we generally all love it. But there’s also endless content to consume on TikTok and Squid Game episodes to watch on Netflix! 

Seriously, though, sleep is essential so your mind and body (including the skin) can restore itself. Did you know that sleep also decreases cortisol (the stress hormone) which is responsible for skin discolouration and thinning skin?

Aim to get a good 7 - 9 hours of sleep every night - your skin (and probably every other part of your body) will love you for it!

FRESH SHEETS ARE A MUST (AS ARE SILK PILLOWCASES) 

Yep, one of the secrets to healthy skin is fresh sheets.

Your sheets hold all of the sweat, dead skin cells, bacteria and residue from skin care products every. single. night. You do not want to look at your bed sheets under a microscope! 

To keep your skin fresh, aim to swap out your sheets once every 1-2 weeks. At a minimum, swap out your pillow case regularly! 

Speaking of pillow cases - opting for a silk one will have a ton of benefits for your skin.

GO ON, GET YOUR SWEAT ON

Movement and exercise helps to circulate blood through our bodies. 

This carries oxygen and nutrients to all of our cells which provides an instant glow and helps our skin to repair itself faster.

Fun fact, exercise also helps to reduce cortisol levels.

Don’t forget to get in a face workout, too. 

WASH YOUR (MAKEUP) BRUSHES 

Do not. We repeat, do not put dirty makeup brushes on your face!

That build up of old makeup, bacteria, oil, sweat and dust will transfer to your face. This can lead to clogged pores, inflammation and acne. 

Your safest bet is to wash your makeup brushes weekly.

Speaking of things like bacteria, oil and sweat transferring on your face - avoid touching or picking at your face. Your skin will be grateful! 

Following these non-skincare product skin care tips will keep your skin in check. Throw your skincare products into the mix, and your skin will be glowing like there’s no tomorrow!

Have more questions about looking after your skin - with or without skincare products? Feel free to reach out to us via Instagram or email us - we love hearing from you!

Shilpa is a freelance beauty and lifestyle writer from Melbourne, Australia. You can keep up with her adventures over at @skb.ontherun and check out her latest articles here.