To size up your skin issues based on just how it looks is equivalent to judging a book by its cover. Blemish-free, clear looking skin may not always be in the best health. Healthy skin feels hydrated, supple, and is rid of any stretching, stinging or burning. It should be consistent in tone, even though Indian skin types are prone to hyperpigmentation in certain areas. But THAT is normal too! Healthy skin also has a good balance of water content, sebum, and pH level. So it is not just the appearance of blemishes that should make you sit up and take notice of your skin. Certain sneaky skin problems may skip your notice and can turn into something much more serious before you know it. Check out the list below to be wary of these imposters, and deal with them before it’s too late!
1. Unexplained Dark Circles
Dark circles are either genetic, a result of bad sleeping habits or a sign of extreme stress. But if you do not check off any of these causes and still get them, there is something more sinister at play. Unexplained dark circles can indicate dehydrated skin. The skin under your eyes is very thin and, when dehydrated, can start to look sunken and dark because of its proximity to the cheekbone. Just dab on a gel-based eye cream; including active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin in your products can help manage them better.
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2. Eyebrow Dandruff
Eyebrow dandruff is just like the flakes on your scalp! A form of Seborrheic Dermatitis, flakiness in the brows is because of the presence of a large number of oil glands in the area, leading to excessive sebum production and, thus, flakiness. If you don’t happen to tend to your brows too often, you might miss them very easily. If left untreated, brow dandruff can cause breakouts in the area. Use a mild, ketoconazole dandruff shampoo on just the brows to help manage it.
3. Smile Lines
Fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth, commonly known as smile lines, are inevitable. The skin around your lips and mouth is delicate and constant stretching can lead to smile lines early on. Fortunately, you do not have to stop smiling to delay the appearance of these lines. An easy hack is to take your eye cream down to your laugh lines while doing your skincare. In fact, adding an anti-ageing step to your skincare routine will help keep the area smooth as well.
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4. Sallow Skin Issues
Sallow skin refers to skin that has lost its natural complexion, often showing yellow or brown undertones. Many don’t notice it because it’s caused by factors like vitamin deficiency, smoking, stress, and lack of sleep. If you wear makeup often, the fact that your skin has lost its natural lustre can definitely go unnoticed. Practice wholesome skincare inside out to avoid dull skin issues and a sallow appearance. Intake of a healthy diet and proper water content can also maintain a healthy natural complexion.
5. Product Pilling
Have you ever noticed your skincare products turning into globs of oily dirt on your skin and start pilling? Product pilling can happen because you use too much product or apply your steps too quickly without letting the previous step dry off. But the biggest reason for skincare pilling, and thus not working, is lack of exfoliation. It is crucial to exfoliate your skin at least twice a week. Make sure you use chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid and glycolic acid to avoid damaging your skin with physical scrubs.
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In conclusion, it is not enough to just tend to the occasional pimple on your face. Taking a closer look at your skin beyond the blemishes can make sure you are staying ahead of any potential skin issues from brewing up. Remember to check in with your dermatologist as well; it’s not just your teeth that need regular professional checkups!
Photos: Instagram, Pexels
