The no-brainer beauty habits that women with clear skin swear by

Getting clear, glowing and blemish-free skin could be as easy as making a few simple changes to your routine – but the key is knowing which ones.

There's no point in splashing out on a trolley's worth of beauty products if none of them is right for your skin.

Regardless of their skin type, there are a few simple things that all women with great skin count as part of their everyday routine.

1. Using SPF every day
Even in rainy Ireland, direct sunlight can cause harm to our skin over time. Avoid wrinkles and dark spots in the future by using a moisturiser with SPF on your face and neck. Many foundations and BB Creams now come with added SPF too – win.

2. Not being afraid of oil-based products
Those of us with oily skin or spot-prone patches tend to shy away from oil-based products. But ensuring your skin is properly hydrated is important for preventing excess sebum production. If you're still reluctant, use an oil-based cleanser on your skin to remove all traces of make-up, before following up with a regular cleanser.

3. Exercising regularly
As if you needed another good reason to hit the gym. Exercise increases blood flow to the skin, helping to nourish cells and improving circulation. Plus, sweating is a great way to get all those toxins out – just be sure to wash your face well after your gym session.

4. Exfoliating at LEAST once a week
People with oily skin may need ot exfoliate more, but most of us should be working up a scrub at least once every seven days to buff away dead skin skills. A regular exfoliation routine will keep your skin looking brighter, and will prevent build up of oil and dead skin in pores. Fewer blemishes and clearer skin – it's a no-brainer.

5. Refusing to go to sleep with make-up on
Whatever guilty pleasures you give into of a Saturday night, don't let falling asleep with a full face of slap be one of them. Even in a worst case scenario you should aim to take make-up off with a cleansing wipe and to moisturise well.

6. Washing bedclothes regularly
We spend eight hours a night in our bed, and if you sleep on your side that means a third of your day is spent with your skin resting on your pillowcase. Washing your bedclothes at least once a week is key to preventing spots and irritation from bacteria.

7. Avoiding alcohol-based skincare products
Unless you have severely oily skin, astringent products are a no-no as they can leave your face feeling tight, dry and red. If you have naturally dry skin, use a fragrance-free cream or oil-based cleanser and moisturiser for all-day hydration.