Despite spending an average of £400 a year on beauty products, many UK adults unknowingly engage in daily habits that sabotage their skin and hair health. Experts at Aventus Clinic, a Care Quality Commission-registered cosmetic and dermatology centre in Hertfordshire, have revealed eight common mistakes that could be silently harming your appearance.
Dr. Suhail Alam of Aventus Clinic notes, “Your daily routine has a bigger impact on skin and hair health than any single product. By simply changing habits—like switching pillowcases or using lukewarm water—you can preserve your glow, prevent damage, and maintain a youthful appearance without spending a fortune.”
Here’s what to watch out for:
Dirty Devices and Makeup Tools
Phones, hats, and makeup brushes collect oil, dust, and bacteria that can clog pores and irritate the scalp. These everyday items can trigger acne, folliculitis, and hair issues if not cleaned regularly. Experts recommend wiping devices daily and giving makeup tools a thorough clean at least once a week.
Tight Hairstyles
Slick ponytails and braids may look stylish, but they put constant stress on hair follicles, leading to traction alopecia—a form of preventable hair loss. Opt for looser styles to protect your hair from long-term damage.
Cotton Pillowcases
Cotton can create friction that leads to split ends, hair breakage, and facial creasing. Switching to silk or satin pillowcases reduces friction, helps hair retain moisture, and may even minimize wrinkles.
Hot Showers
Steamy showers strip the skin and scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. Lukewarm water and shorter showers (under 10 minutes) are better for retaining skin and hair moisture.
Overwashing Your Skin and Scalp
Too much cleansing disrupts the skin barrier and irritates the scalp, making both dry and sensitive. Avoid using harsh cleansers or shampooing too frequently—especially if your skin is prone to dryness or eczema.
Touching Your Face and Hair
Frequent contact transfers bacteria and oil, worsening acne and causing hair breakage. “Give your skin and scalp space to breathe,” advises Dr. Alam. Keep hands off your face and resist twirling or tugging at your hair.
Sleeping with Wet Hair
Wet hair is more fragile, and tossing on a pillow can cause breakage. It also creates damp pillowcases, encouraging bacterial growth near the scalp. Let your hair dry naturally or use a gentle blow-dry before bedtime.
Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy Days
Even when it’s overcast, up to 80% of UV rays penetrate the clouds. This exposure contributes to premature ageing, pigmentation, skin cancer, and even hair damage, including dryness and fading. Daily SPF on skin—and UV protection for your hair—should be part of every routine, year-round.
Small Changes, Big Results
These insights offer practical hair health advice for anyone looking to improve their appearance without overspending. By addressing small but powerful daily habits, you can protect your skin and hair health long-term.
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