12 Things You NEED to Know About That Are Damaging Your Skin

Your post-pool regimen is vital when it comes to your skin. Even after a shower, chlorine can cling to skin and react with topical medications, cleansers, and even lotions. To effectively remove chlorine, always use an extra sudsy soap after you take a dip.

Caffeine is a major culprit when it comes to dry skin and the magnification of wrinkles. Quench skin by drinking lots of water. Add fruit slices like orange or lemon to enhance the flavor.

Skipping meals can cause skin to age faster and dry out more quickly. Always try to include vitamins C (oranges), B3 (peanuts), E (avocados), and A (sweet potatoes) in your meals to build up your skin's health.

While the occasional steamy shower is great, it actually strips away the outermost layer of the epidermis, which can cause scaly and dry skin. When your skin starts to turn red and itch in the shower, you know its time to step out.

To avoid a skin nightmare, always test new products — cosmetics, lotions, and cleansers — on a small patch of skin. Choose somewhere on your arm to avoid an unexpected allergic reaction on your face.

Hours spent talking on your cell phone can lead to breakouts and rashes along your jawline and cheek. Make sure to keep antibacterial wipes with you to keep your phone (and skin!) clean.

Next time you apply hairspray, use a clean towel to cover your face to protect your skin. Also, make sure to always use a sweatband when you hit the gym so no hair products drip onto your face when you begin to sweat.

Like your regular lenses, don't forget to wipe your sunglasses clean. Bacteria that builds up on your glasses can get into the pores around the bridge of your nose, causing breakouts and irritation.

Constant yo-yo dieting can negatively impact your skin: Frequent weight gain and loss can cause the fibers in your skin to loosen over time, creating stretch marks and sag.

Getting the recommended eight hours of sleep a night will not only help you look refreshed, but it will also replenish and rehydrate skin. Not getting a good night's sleep can result in dull skin and clogged pores.

Excess sodium in your diet can suck the moisture out of skin, leaving it dry and dull. To avoid this, cut back on salty treats and invest in a