These 5 Things Will Make Your Skin Look Amazing... And Cost NOTHING!

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The beauty world is literally overflowing with products that claim they’re going to make your skin look younger, brighter, and spot-free – you name a problem, and there will be a product solution. The only real dilemma is that buying all these products can cost a BOMB! But as it turns out, there are so many free, easy, and natural ways to boost your skin that your mum has probably been telling you to do for years. So, if it seems like you spend your entire salary at Sephora – don’t worry guys, we know the feeling – try these alternatives first! 

1. Get Some Sleep

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Like we said, you really need to listen to your mum’s advice and catch some zzzs! Remember, it’s called beauty sleep for a reason. It sounds so simple and so straightforward, but the truth is too many of us have such hectic lives it means that we don’t get the eight hours, not just our soul, but our skin needs too. Sleep gives your skin time to internally rehydrate so that it can recover enough moisture before it exits your body – gross we know! When you’re tired, your eyes often look puffy, and this is due to the poor water balance, as your body just hasn’t had the time to retain the moisture it needs.

Plus, the more sleep you get, the lower the levels of cortisol you have in your body, which is the stress hormone that causes the skin to flare up and age prematurely. Time to hit the pillow, we think!

Tip: If you’re willing to invest, try a silk pillowcase, which helps reduce premature aging and keeps your hair silky smooth. Also, don’t forget to wash your pillowcase once a week to keep your skin clean and clear.

2. Take a Dip

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There’s no secret that the key to killer skin is staying hydrated and drinking a TON of water. But if you already drink the eight glasses the doctor ordered and religiously remove your makeup before bed, then there’s still something you can try: Seawater. Seawater can work wonders for your skin, as it naturally absorbs toxins in your body while declogging your pores, exfoliating, and promoting healing with its rich mineral content. If you can’t get to the beach, try doing a DIY with two tablespoons of sea salt in 500ml of water and use it as a toner for your face. Check out all the deets on why seawater is awesome for your skin, here.

3. Get Some Sunshine

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The damaging effects of UV rays are our nemesis! But, there are new studies that say we need 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure a day – CRAZY, we know – to absorb vitamin D in its best form. Vitamin D can actually play a role in preventing premature aging and damage to the skin’s structure, and a lack of it isn’t good for your skin. What does this mean? Get into the sunshine and absorb vitamin D – of course, you should wear sunscreen, buut due to the fact that most people don’t apply SPF correctly, you will still absorb vitamin D.

4. Improve Your Air Quality

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We all know that the polluted world we live in can have a really negative impact on the health of our skin, especially if you’re living in a busy city. This means it’s crucial to try and reduce the amount of time you spend in contaminated airspace and spend some quality time with Mother Nature. Anywhere that plants surround you, the oxygen is going to be so much purer, allowing your skin time to breathe and replenish; whether you go for a hike or a picnic, the fresh air really is good for you – and your mind! If that’s not an option, be sure to stock up on antioxidants in your skincare routine, to protect yourself against damaging free radicals.

5. De-stress and Smile

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We know this sounds kind of silly, but smiling can actually improve the quality of your skin! Smiling helps stimulate the capillaries in the face, which improves circulation and brings oxygen to your skin. The more you smile, the more you’ll naturally boost your serotonin levels (the feel-good hormone), thereby reducing stress and lowering levels of cortisol. So, whatever makes you smile or giggle, make time for that, because everyone GENUINELY looks more beautiful when they smile. This post should help 😉