• Tuesday 17 August 2010
• posted by Sophie Hines
• Comments

Daily routine

Wash your face twice a day (no more than that or it will send your skin into oil-production overdrive). Use warm water to open up your pores for a really deep clean, but make sure you tighten them afterwards by splashing your face with cold water (cheaper than using toner!) A face wash that gently exfoliates your skin, such as Garnier Synergie Pure Wash (£2.59) is great for getting rid of all the grime - just don't be tempted to scrub your skin too hard or you'll end up irritating it even more.

There's a risk with spot-fighting products that they can end up drying your skin out completely, so it's important to keep it hydrated. Choose a moisturiser that's oil-free - two of our favourites are Clearasil Ultra Overnight Lotion (£5.28) and Simple Spotless Skin Moisturiser (£3.99).

Obviously the best thing for your skin would be to wear no make-up whatsoever, but for many people who have skin problems this is absolutely unthinkable (bloody swings and roundabouts eh?) However, even if you do wear make-up there are ways to be kind to your skin, such as using oil-free foundation. Revlon Colorstay (£11.99) is highly-recommended and you can even get spot-fighting concealer for extra coverage (Rimmel Stay Matte Concealer (£4.99) treats spots as well as hiding them). 

Make sure you remove your make-up EVERY night (we don't care if you're too drunk to walk), as leaving layers of foundation clogging up your pores over night is a sure way to sentence yourself to a two week zit-fest. Having face wipes on standby for when you're feeling lazy is a good way to guarantee this.

Food and drink

Don't worry, we're not going to tell you to give up chocolate (as one beanteam member's insane decision to quit the good stuff for lent proved, it doesn't actually result in flawless skin). However, if you're a complete sugar-addict then trying cutting down a bit as this should lead to healthier skin (something to do with having less acid floating about inside you). Also, eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, as well as selenium-rich foods (Brazil nuts, cashews) and those containing Vitamin E (almonds, avocados, pine nuts) since these are important in reviving your skin.

Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated. Cutting back on coffee and alcohol (sob) will also improve your skin, although perhaps not your temper. 

Things to avoid

Avoid touching your face too much, as this transfers pesky spot-causing bacteria and oil from your hands to the problem area. Also make sure your hair is kept clean as greasy locks will do your face no favours.

Lack of sleep is a key factor in producing bad skin because this is the time when your skin rejuvenates. Try to get at least 8 hours a night.