Change those habits that could be bad for your health
If there were small things that you could change to improve your over all health would you do it? Some minor details in your everyday life, that might not seem like a big deal, could be running havoc on your body. check out 7 habits that you can change to improve different aspects of your life. Cleanse your body of those “bad for your health” habits with a discounted heath and beauty gift card!
1. Falling Asleep with Your Makeup On
What’s the big deal? If you’re lucky, sleeping in a face full of makeup will only leave behind a pimple or two. But make it an all-the-time thing and you’re asking for clogged pores and a breeding ground for bacteria to run wild on. The worst culprit? Foundation, according to Elissa Lunder, MD, FITNESS advisory board member and owner of Dermatology Partners, Inc. in Massachusetts. In some cases, Dr. Lunder has even seen people develop milia — small, hard bumps that form on the skin. And while she says sleeping in eye makeup won’t cause your lashes to fall out or give you pinkeye (whew!), dozing in mascara can cause eye swelling. But don’t stop the suds at your face! Forgetting to wash your brushes can lead to staph infections as well as aid in spreading cold sores or other illnesses. Um…gross?
Break it: If you had a late night and find yourself waking up to raccoon eyes, wash your face with a normal cleanser and a washcloth. Steer clear of facial scrubs, which will only irritate the skin more, says Dr. Lunder. If you’re guilty of this beauty blunder more than once a week, stock up on pre-moistened makeup clothes, available at Walmart, which Dr. Lunder says is better than nothing. Since the bathroom sink is filled with fungus, mold, mildew, and bacteria, make sure your brushes are on a clean towel, and aim to wash them once a week in hot, soapy water. If you have a cold sore, toss any sponges or products (like lipstick) that came in contact with it.
2. Wearing Flats to Work, Then Changing into Heels
What’s the big deal? “It’s a common misconception that flat shoes are good for your feet,” says Megan Leahy, DPM, a podiatrist at the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute in Chicago. “The ballerina-style shoes that roll up and fit in your purse are even worse because they offer no stability or cushioning.” A common ailment Dr. Leahy sees when women wear flats that don’t offer enough support isplantar fasciitis, inflammation of the thick tissue at the bottom of the foot. Sky-high heel wearers can also face problems, ranging from foot sprains to broken ankles after taking a tumble in them. Wear the wrong shoes for too long and Dr. Leahy says it may lead to prolonged pain, physical therapy, and even cortisone injections.
Break it: It may not win you an award for street style, but Dr. Leahy recommends wearing supportive athletic shoes to and from work. After wearing heels all day, take some time to do a few calf stretches against a wall, especially before hitting the gym. This will relieve some of the tightness in the foot. If pain occurs, take a break from your heels as much as you can and invest in Dr. Scholl’s For Her High Heel Insoles ($9.99, drugstores nationwide) for extra heel cushioning, or shoes with built-in arch support, like Cole Haan shoes that are built with Nike Air technology.
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