5 habits Lagosians do that may be damaging to skin

Original Story/ Image credit: googleimages.com

If you live in Lagos, chances are you have rough skin. With the pollution in the air, excessive amount of time spent in traffic, you might be doing any of these habits that long term will be bad for your skin.

1. You’re not cleaning your skin enough

Dust, smog and bacteria in the air will clog your skin while you’re in traffic, going to work or meetings. If you’re not removing these germs they will infect your skin and long term cause severe damage. Counter this by either washing your face and neck and exposed skin in the washbasin at work or use an antibacterial wipe to cleanse your skin.

2. You’re touching your hair all the time

If you oil your scalp frequently (which you should) touching this scalp and then your skin will cause a build-up of clogged oil and dirt. Rethink that habit and try keeping your hands out of your hair.

3. You’re not drinking enough water

Stay hydrated. Drink 2 litres a day even when you’re not thirsty, it’s good for your health and your skin.

4. You don’t change your pillowcases

I know you’re busy but the amount of dead skin and dried bugs in your pillowcases and bedding might be causing you recurring infections and generally damaging your skin! Wash your bedding!

5. You’re constantly exposed to UV rays

The number of people that clearly don’t know how melanin works are honestly baffling. Being dark skin or brown skin does not mean you should be spending all day directly exposed to UV rays. Help your skin by avoiding the sun if you can. Get an umbrella, a UV visor, sunscreen, long-sleeved clothing, a wide hat, a sun hat, basically anything that will protect you from the sun.

The skin is the largest organ on your body, being kind to it is being kind to yourself.