Get Glowing: Skin Care Tips for Busy Moms

It’s no secret, as moms we are so busy we often forget to take care of the skin we are in. Lack of sleep does help at all. Since the skin’s repair processes are hard at work while you sleep, being sleep-deprived can actually worsen the look of your skin by intensifying dark circles and/or puffiness under the eyes. Sleep deprivation also can lead to increased breakouts (or slow the healing of ones you already have).

While it’s easier said than done, there are things you can do before bed to maximize the overnight skin-renewal process and help your skin look its best come morning.

Make-up

First and foremost, always remove makeup before bed since it’s that very makeup, plus the dirt and grime that collect on skin during the day, that increases a pore’s likelihood of getting clogged.

Exfoliate and moisturize

Exfoliation helps rid of dead skin-cells. However exfoliate with caution. Moisturizers seal moisture into the skin. Some call it the saran wrap effect. So boost your skin’s moisture with a hydrating gel moisturizer or cream.

Regular exercise

The revitalizing and energizing benefits of exercise (and the circulation boost it provides the entire body) are certainly good for your overall well-being–not to mention the healthy glow it gives your skin.

Stress relief

When we’re under pressure, we tend to let our good habits lapse. For instance, we crave foods higher in fat and sugar; we sleep less or poorly; we react to situations more emotionally and get angry more easily–all thanks to the hormone, cortisol, that’s released during times of tension. Since cortisol itself can trigger acne by causing inflammation, neglecting good habits creates a double whammy for our complexion.

A balanced diet

There are many myths about what we eat. One thing is certain, however: Eating a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables- is the best way to stay healthy and have clear skin.
Get your nutrients. A healthy diet is rich in minerals and vitamins, particularly vitamins A, C and E, which are critical for smooth, clear skin. Nutritionally, vitamin A is found in foods like broccoli, cantaloupe, cod, red peppers, spinach and watercress.

Stay hydrated

No sadly coffee doesn’t count. Drink at least 11 8-ounce glasses of water daily. Water is essential for life, and drinking it is important for every organ system, including the skin (it makes it more supple and resilient). Besides thirst, signs of dehydration include fatigue and loss of skin tone (the skin sags more and loses its glow).

Don’t SKIMP on SPF

Sunscreen is a year-round necessity. Ultraviolet rays will replace your natural glow with discoloration, dryness, and eventually, wrinkles. Wear sunscreen every day; no matter what your age, ethnicity, or the weather. Believe it or not but you can get sunburn even when it’s raining.

Take a bath

Get a book, sit back and relax, don’t forget to lock the door. However as tempting as it may be, don’t turn up the heat in the tub or shower. Hot water is dehydrating, adding that warm water is skin safe. Get more moisture-boosting benefits by coating skin with an essential oil immediately after soaking and towel-blotting.

When all else fails after a few sleepless nights, keep in mind that a little mineral foundation and lip-gloss can go a long way.

Special thanks to our guest author:

Over the course of seven years devoted to teaching in the aesthetics field, Jennifer developed governmental teaching programs in Canada and worked as a national trainer for aesthetics professionals. Her expertise lies in the physiology of the skin, product research and development and market intelligence.Ms Brodeur is also known for her knowledge in the field of light therapy for the aesthetics industry. Her career includes many years of valuable experience with a large aesthetics manufacturer, where she was in charge of concept development.

 Ms Brodeur co-founded Max LED Technologies in 2003, and serves as director of market intelligence and head of market research, training and worldwide seminars.  Ms Brodeur founded Bella Clinique in 2009. Admired for its elegance, results oriented treatments, Bella guests enjoy relaxing and chatting at the skin bar.  Bella features anti-aging therapies using cosmeceuticals and LED technology. In early 2012 Bella will open a second location down town Montreal.

You can find Jennifer at Twitter.com/jenniferbrodeur, www.bellaclinique.ca, www.maxledtechnologies.com and of course Beauty Connexion.