When I think of clear skin, my mind automatically jumps to those commercials of young tween celebrities scrubbing their face with a product and smiling, as if they are at their happiest when they’re exfoliating. Then they splash water on their face and it looks oh-so-picturesque.

But what these commercials don’t tell you is that there are simple and sustainable ways to achieve clearer skin. I believe that the best way to natural beauty is to integrate easy steps such as these into your daily routine, that way you are less dependent on the product of the month. Here’s what you can do to give your skin a break.

1. Mind Your Makeup

Minding your makeup is a threefold practice:

• Makeup should be an investment. Those cheap drugstore products may be tempting, and on occasion they may even get the job done. But chances are they aren’t great for your skin in the long run. Jane Iredale’s line of all-natural makeup is mineral-based, and almost all of the products are oil-free. According to the company’s website, people who have acne problems actually said their skin improved after using Jane Iredale makeup.
• Wash off your makeup at the end of the day. Yes, it’s so easy to just fall into bed after a night out with friends – but just take the extra few seconds and wash your face before you hit the pillow! Your complexion will thank you for it.
• Clean your brushes. Makeup brushes can accumulate bacteria and dead skin (think of how often you use them!), and they should be cleaned at least once a month. All you need to do is use some baby shampoo and warm water, and they’ll be good as new.

2. Drink Water

I am the first to acknowledge my weakness for the temptation that is Diet Coke. But drinking lots of water is one of the easiest things you can do to make your skin healthier – and believe it or not, soda actually causes breakouts. The best way to integrate water into your eating/drinking habits is to carry a Camelback bottle with you and drink it throughout the day. Eventually, you won’t even have to think about it and it will become a second-nature habit.

3. Find a Happy Medium

Exfoliating and moisturizing are essential for healthy skin – but like everything else, doing it too often can cause more harm than good. If your skin is dry and red, you may be exfoliating too much. On the flip side, excessive moisturizing can cause your skin to be extra oily, which eventually leads to breakouts. Don’t just follow the pack – everyone has unique skin, and you should adjust these practices according to what you think your skin needs.

To get more skincare tips and to buy Jane Iredale products, check out Verve 360 hair salon Pittsburgh!