Bad habits can be hard to break. Still, when you know your habits are affecting your looks, you can make the positive changes necessary to help keep your skin healthy, clear and youthful for years to come. Some bad habits are worse than others. These seven bad skin habits should be avoided at all costs:

1. You skip sun protection.

When you don’t use sunscreen, you’re putting your skin at risk. Sun damage ups your risk of developing skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States today. Additionally, sun damage causes premature aging, like wrinkles, uneven pigmentation or liver spots, and deep creases. Use a sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection to reap the most benefits.

2. You use the wrong products for your skin type.

With the specialized products available today, you should be able to find the ideal product for your skin type, whether you have sensitive skin, oily skin, acne-prone skin, aging skin, or any combination skin type.

3. You neglect to clean your makeup brushes.

Those same brushes you depend on for the perfect touch of color or flawless powder application can pick up bacteria from your skin, hands, counters, and even the air. Wash them once a week and allow them to air dry. It will reduce your odds of acne breakouts and skin or eye infections.

4. You forget to wash your face before bed.

Even if you don’t wear makeup, your face picks up bacteria from your phone and your hands. Washing it removes the bacteria and sweat that accumulate throughout the day and can provide a clean surface to help your nighttime products work better.

5. You pop zits.

Popping zits can lead to increased inflammation and irritation and a higher risk of infection and scarring. You might even spread the bacteria, leading to more zits. If you have a large pimple that’s bugging you, use a warm washcloth as a compress to open the pores and follow with an acne treatment product.

6. You tan.

A tan symbolizes health and beauty in our society, but the opposite is true when it comes to science. Tanned skin is damaged skin and can lead to premature aging and skin cancer. Use bronzer instead.

7. You smoke and drink.

Smoking and drinking rank right up there with the sun when it comes to skin damage. They cause premature aging and break down the collagen in your skin, leaving it thin and sagging. If you can’t quit on your own, talk to your doctor about how he or she can help.

Keep these things in mind as you go about your days to ensure your skin has the best possible chance to be radiant and healthy for years to come!