Why Skin Care Is Not Self-Indulgent

Did your latest skincare haul leave you feeling slightly self-indulgent? Too often, people allow themselves a fancy cup of espresso or a monthly online shopping spree until they are left wallowing in self-guilt. However, prioritizing self-care by catering to your skin isn’t something to be ashamed of. From slowing down the aging process to boosting mental health, maintaining a good skincare routine has a host of benefits that you deserve and don’t have to apologize for.

Your skin is the largest organ in your body and the best barrier against harmful elements. It also regulates body temperature and synthesizes vitamin D. There is no doubt that your skin plays an essential role in protecting your body from external factors such as harmful sun rays and bacteria. Because it is your body’s first line of defense, it deserves to be protected. Understanding and addressing your skin’s needs can help make it more resilient.

Good skin care is essential at any age, so determine which products work best for you. Women in their 20s and 30s have abundant collagen and elastin, but these decline as they enter the period before menopause. While serums and creams that support collagen production may help, establishing a good routine with a gentle cleanser and nourishing moisturizer is essential in maintaining healthy skin, even as you age. A visit to your dermatologist will help determine your skin type and which ingredients to look out for or avoid.

Maintaining a skincare routine comes down to these three basic steps: cleanse, protect, and moisturize. Some skin types might require more steps (still not self-indulgent). If your skin is sensitive, try Dove Deeply Nourishing Body Wash, a mild cleanser that nourishes the skin and provides three times more nourishment than milk. If your skin is dry, use Dove Gentle Exfoliating Body Wash gently washes away dead skin, leaving it feeling smooth and soft after just one wash.

The easiest way to remember when to use certain products is by following this simple rule: morning skin care should focus on prevention and protection, while your nighttime skincare routine should focus on cleansing and repair.

With consistency, the benefits of a good skincare routine can make you look good and feel amazing inside and out. When protecting our skin, use SPF even when it’s cloudy. It defends you from harmful UV rays – the number one cause of wrinkles, uneven skin tone, loss of firmness, and other signs of aging.

Healthy glowing skin can also boost how you feel and may have a positive impact on your mental health. According to a study conducted on a group of over 1,800 racially diverse women across America, from age 18 to 74, 76% of women said they felt good about themselves when their skin looked good.

An article by the National Council for Mental Well-being notes that self-care is clinically proven to reduce stress, increase happiness, and enhance confidence. It helps you achieve balance in different aspects of your life, and it’s not self-indulgent. 

The importance of self-care has become more pressing in recent years, and there is no easier form of self-care than skin care. When your skin looks good, you feel good and more confident. Skin care also allows you to relax. For some, applying product in the undisturbed peace of a warmly lit bathroom can be almost meditative.

Investing in good skin care will make you feel and look healthier. There’s nothing self-indulgent about ensuring our overall health and well-being, even if it means adding to your (skin care) cart.