Born and raised in Hong Kong, I was taught about the importance of looking after my skin from a very young age and started using sheet masks when I was twelve years old. Throughout my 20+ year skincare journey, I’ve learnt that every person’s skin is different and needs to be treated differently, we need to be consistent with our skincare routine and we need to use good quality skincare.
I’ve also discovered that achieving a healthy and hydrated complexion takes a holistic approach. If you’re using the best products and treating your skin to regular treatments and still experiencing problem skin, there’s more to it than the products you’re using.
Here are my 6 tips on changes you can make in your lifestyle to help you achieve a glowing and healthy complexion.
PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUNSun exposure is one of the main contributors to fine lines, wrinkles and dehydrated skin. I can’t recommend using a SPF 50 every day enough. Even on cloudy days you need to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays so wearing SPF is a non-negotiable for me.
MAKE HYDRATION AND GOOD NUTRITION A PRIORITYWhat you put into your body shows directly on your skin so it is important to be mindful about how much water you’re drinking daily and maintaining a good diet. My advice is to make drinking water a priority. Instead of reaching for caffeinated drinks and sugary sodas that strip your skin of essential hydration, try to drink two to three litres of water every day. I start my day with hot water and lemon and carry a refillable bottle with me to remind myself to drink water throughout the day.
I know it can be hard to find the time in our busy lifestyles to eat healthily but it is so important for our skin health. Fast food and highly processed foods can cause inflammation and skin issues so eating a balanced diet of nutritious food like fruit, vegetables and whole grains will help to keep your skin looking its best.
MANAGE YOUR STRESS LEVELSBeing an entrepreneur and business owner, I know all too well about the effects that stress can have on the skin. When we’re stressed our skin will tell us through breakouts, problem skin and rashes. Showing yourself kindness and self-love will go a long way for your frame of mind and overall well-being which plays a big factor in skin health. I always make time to pamper myself after a stressful day and give myself reassurance and kind words. Using your skincare routine as an opportunity to indulge in self-care is a great healthy habit to build into your life.
AIM TO GET SIX TO EIGHT HOURS OF SLEEP A NIGHTGetting enough sleep is essential for our overall well-being and mental health. Sleep is also a natural way to prevent the signs of ageing because when we’re asleep our body is busy repairing our skin cells and making new collagen. I always aim to get six to eight hours of sleep every night because lack of sleep can cause dehydrated skin which highlights our fine lines and wrinkles.
CLEANSE YOUR SKIN THOROUGHLYEven if you’re like me and don’t wear makeup every day, it is so important to cleanse your face thoroughly every morning and evening to avoid the build-up of dirt in your pores. Having a proper skincare routine is essential to keep the skin hydrated and I highly recommend using the GLIST Ultra Hydro Plumping mask either before putting makeup on in the morning or after cleansing your skin in the evening. Exfoliating regularly to remove the top layer of dead skin cells is also important as not doing so can lead to blocked pores and problem skin.
SIMPLIFY YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINEThe skincare market is flooded with products and new skincare trends are constantly emerging on social media which can make it extremely confusing to know which products you need to use on your skin. In East Asia, we believe in the simplicity of skincare and I personally believe that skincare should be an effortless step in your daily life. This philosophy is what GLIST is built on and it’s why I created a bespoke skincare range. Using GLIST sheet masks just twice a week can help you simplify your skincare routine and can replace the need for many bottled serums which will save you time and money.