Most of us are guilty of at least one bad skin habit. Though the negative effects may not be apparent right away, there are certain practices that can have a cumulative impact on the complexion. This means that, though it may take years, skin health can worsen as time goes by, with visible changes in tone, texture and balance. That’s why we’re encouraging you to kick the following bad habits now—you’ll thank yourself later, and you’ll have beautiful skin to show for it.

Skipping Sunscreen

It’s no secret that sun exposure can cause serious damage to skin. In fact, there is a direct correlation between all forms of skin cancer, including the deadliest, melanoma, and frequent or prolonged sun exposure.

In addition to cancer, UVA and UVB rays can result in surface damage in the form of a tan or sunburn, as well as premature signs of aging. Fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, redness, rough texture and dryness can be linked to sun damage. Likewise, indoor tanning beds can cause the same skin issues since they can be just as powerful or even more so than natural sunlight.

SOLUTION: Wear sunscreen every day, rain or shine. We recommend making it impossible not to wear sunscreen by choosing a convenient all-in-one product. There are countless tinted moisturizers, face treatments and makeup options that contain SPF and make for excellent sun protection. One of our favorites is EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Sunscreen - Tinted.

Smoking & Drinking

Over time, smoking and drinking can dehydrate skin beyond repair, resulting in a dull, dry complexion. In particular, smoking can contribute to collagen and elastin breakdown, a rough, leathery texture and sagging skin. Excessive drinking causes blood vessels to expand and contract, which can create spider veins under the skin, especially on the cheeks and around the nose. If you struggle with preexisting skin conditions such as acne, rosacea or eczema, smoking and drinking can exacerbate them, leaving any irritation painful and slow to heal. All of these factors can cause skin to look tired and prematurely aged.

SOLUTION: To avoid accruing more damage, quit smoking immediately. Limit alcohol consumption to the occasional glass of red wine, which contains antioxidants that are beneficial to skin.

Picking or popping blemishes

We’ve all picked or popped pimples at one point or another, and it may seem like a quick fix. However, picking and popping can spread bacteria on your skin and contribute to more breakouts. It can also force bacteria deeper into the skin, which can prolong a blemish and put you at risk for scarring.

SOLUTION: We know it isn’t easy, but letting pimples shrink on their own is the best way to ensure they heal properly. At LovelySkin, we have a wide range of acne care products for every need and skin type. To keep breakouts under control and expedite the healing process, we recommend starting with a good cleanser with salicylic acid, like LovelySkin LUXE Clarifying Gel Cleanser. You can also apply a spot treatment like glo therapeutics Spot Fix Blemish Treatment, a serum that helps heal blemishes with natural essential oils.

Not removing makeup before bed

At the end of the day, many of us would prefer to fall into bed without another worry. But failing to remove your makeup can result in clogged pores, pimples, irritation and rough texture, not to mention a more aged complexion. Neglecting to remove eye makeup can cause dryness, redness and infection.

SOLUTION: We like to swipe on makeup remover before continuing with cleanser, just to be sure we’re not left with any residual traces. For a quick solution, try swiping off makeup with a moist wipe, such as Koh Gen Do Cleansing Water Cloth, before picking up your favorite cleanser. Remember, simply taking makeup off with a wipe is better than nothing. Keep wipes on your nightstand as a reminder so that even if you don’t squeeze in a full cleansing routine, you’re still taking most makeup off.

Not getting enough sleep

Our skin does most of its self-healing and regeneration at night. As we sleep, skin cycles through its natural repair and rejuvenation processes, leaving us with a refreshed appearance upon waking, as well as enough energy to fend off various stressors throughout the day. When we are deprived of sleep, our skin doesn’t get a chance to rest and rejuvenate, leaving us with a dull, tired complexion. Lack of sleep also causes the body to produce stress hormones in excess, which can break down collagen prematurely and cause flare-ups of conditions like acne, rosacea and psoriasis.

SOLUTION: We recommend getting at least seven hours of sleep a night. You can also apply a nourishing night cream to enhance the skin’s natural processes. We like LovelySkin LUXE Cellular Anti-Aging Peptide Serum, which leaves skin looking smooth and youthful in the morning.

Do you have a question about skin habits? Let us know in the comments section.