Maintaining moisturized and healthy skin in college/university on a budget is not only achievable but essential.
A good skin care routine doesn’t have to break the bank. Simple practices like drinking enough water, using affordable, quality moisturizers and protecting your skin from the sun can make a significant difference.
Its about prioritizing self-care without compromising your financial stability. Your skin will thank you, and it can boost your confidence during those busy college years.
Here are some of the practices and products you can use to maintain a healthy skin
Cleanse: Use a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and oil from your skin. Avoid harsh soaps that can strip natural oils.
Hydrate: Moisturize daily to keep your skin hydrated. Choose a product suitable for your skin type.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from UV rays, even on cloudy days.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can damage your skin.
Manage Stress: High stress levels can lead to skin issues. Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation.
Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes good circulation, which can benefit your skin.
Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for hours of quality sleep per night to allow your skin to repair and regenerate.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use skincare products with gentle, natural ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin.
Regularly Clean Makeup Brushes: If you wear makeup, clean your brushes and sponges to prevent bacterial growth.
Don’t Over-Exfoliate: Exfoliate 1-2 times a week to remove dead skin cells, but avoid overdoing it, as it can damage your skin’s protective barrier.
Consult a Dermatologist: If you have persistent skin concerns or issues, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice from a dermatologist.
Some of the recommended soaps are:
Hypoallergenic Soap: These are great for sensitive skin as they contain fewer potential irritants. An example is miraculous aloe vera which costs Ksh .1000 per 500 ml
Moisturizing Soap: Look for soaps with added moisturizers like glycerin or shea butter to prevent dryness. An example includes include salicylic acid serum which costs roughly Ksh.2200 per 750 ml
Antibacterial Soap: If you have specific skin issues, you might opt for an antibacterial soap, but use it sparingly to avoid over-drying your skin. An example is goat milk antibacterial soap that costs roughly Ksh 200
Natural or Organic Soaps: Some people prefer natural or organic soaps made with minimal ingredients and no harsh. Examples include: H$B ,Protex and any cream bar soap.
pH-Balanced Soap: These help maintain the skin’s natural pH balance and are generally gentler on the skin. An example is Copia Lanzo soap which costs roughly Ksh.40 per 25 grams piece
Oatmeal Soap: Great for soothing irritated skin and providing relief for conditions like eczema. Example of oat meal soaps are Almond bar soap and Yardley bar soap which cost roughly Ksh .450
Tea Tree Oil Soap:This can be beneficial for acne-prone skin due to its antibacterial properties. It’s price is roughly 200
Charcoal Soap: Good for deep cleansing and can help with acne and oily skin.
Remember, what works best for your skin can vary based on your skin type and any specific skin issues you may have. It’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist for personalized recommendations.
The Writer, Purity Benjamin is a First Year Applied Computer Science Student at Chuka University
This is owesome, keep it up.