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8 Big beauty sins

3. Hitting the Sack Without Washing Your Face

Why it’s a no-no: Sleeping with mascara and eye makeup on can cause you to wake up with unattractive dark circles from makeup residue and maybe even an infection, says New York City celeb derm Patricia Wexler. And layers of foundation, concealer, and blush will stop your skin from breathing and clog up your pores, making your complexion acne-prone and dull-looking. Even if you didn’t wear makeup during the day, your skin accumulates oil and dirt, both of which can also lead to pimples if not washed away in the p.m. Rehab: Keep a pack of premoistened face wipes next to your bed. This way, no matter how tired you are (or how many cocktails you’ve had), you can swipe away your makeup in seconds, sans rinsing.

4. Fake-Baking in a Tanning Bed

Why it’s a no-no: UVA rays (the kind emitted primarily from tanning-bed bulbs) are called aging rays for a reason — they penetrate your connective tissue, causing premature sagging and the proliferation of wrinkle-causing free radicals. Plus, UVA rays have been linked to skin cancer and can suppress your immune system, says Dr. Wexler. Rehab: It’s so easy to crib a safe and believable tan from a bottle, thanks to the latest body lotions that are spiked with just a hint of self-tanner. But unlike regular moisturizers, apply this variety to totally dry skin, since excess water can cause the color to develop unevenly, says Cindy Barshop, owner of Completely Bare in NYC. After 24 hours, assess your glow. If you’re craving a more golden look, rub on another coat and repeat daily until you reach your desired level of bronze.

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