Daily Skincare And Haircare Saviors That Swoop In To Save The Day

Research says that a diet rich in selenium may help protect against sun damage and age spots

Let’s cut through all the hullabaloo built around beauty and look at some, every day, simple hacks you could use to feel and look your best!

SKINCARE

Eat for your face

Your plate plays a crucial role in how your skin looks and feels. Eat the right balance of foods and you'll be keeping your skin soft, supple and blemish-free. Give your skin an antioxidant boost by eating fruits and veggies every day. Most of these foods have beta-carotene which is helpful in normal skin development and a glowing skin tone. Selenium is a powerful antioxidant and works alongside vitamins C and E. Research says that a diet rich in selenium may help protect against sun damage and age spots.

The power of basics

Your skin faces dirt, pollution and harsh climate through the day. Therefore, cleansing is an important step to remove dirt, oil and makeup from your skin. Cleanse your skin twice a day with appropriate cleansers for your skin type. If your skin is oily, use a mild gel-based moisturiser and do not forget to wear sunscreen even when you are indoors. 

Moisturise at night

During the night, the skin temperature rises and skin pores open up. Hence, any moisturiser applied at night has the benefit of staying in contact with the skin for a longer period of time. It is likely to penetrate better and humidify and hydrate skin from within. After moisturising your face and body at night, try to sleep right away. Restful sleep helps in calming and renewing skin cells.

Rinse your face with cold water

The water temperature you use while washing your face matters. Splashing your face with cold water can act like an astringent and bring down puffiness, tighten the appearance of your skin and calm inflammation, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). 

Know your stressbusters

Our bodies and minds are directly linked and stress or lack of sleep can often manifest in the form of skin problems like acne, eczema and hair loss. Stress induces the hormone cortisol, which triggers our skin to produce more sebum or oil. Stress also causes changes to the proteins in your skin and spoils its elasticity. This loss of elasticity can contribute to stress lines and wrinkles.

HAIRCARE

Read the labels

Make it a habit to read beauty labels as carefully as you read the food labels. In the last few years, there has been a spurt of sulfate shampoos. What are sulfates? They're the reason your shampoo lathers the way it does. They nicely rinse your scalp and hair, taking away the dirt from it. But some researchers also suggest that they strip your hair of essential oils. So read and buy!

Oil is well

A conditioner does work wonders for your hair but nothing beats a good old oil massage. Oil gives your hair certain minerals, vitamins and essential fatty acids that strengthen your roots while also boosting the overall health of your hair. Oil can protect your hair from sun damage and removes sebum built-up, accelerating hair growth. 

Massage your scalp

Massage the scalp with warm oil to stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles. This can promote hair growth and helps loosen the build-up of dead skin cells, which can clog follicles and lead to hair loss.

Eat a balanced diet

Hair follicles need ample nutrition to flourish, so be sure to consume a diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals like iron and zinc. You could add more eggs, salmon, nuts and seeds to your diet.