Want to know a deep, dark secret about beauty and skincare? The one that cosmetics companies don’t really want you to know?

Having gorgeous, glowing skin isn't about buying the latest, greatest, most expensive products. It’s about your habits. In fact, it’s far more about what you don’t do than what you do do.

If buying luxurious potions and creams makes your skin glow and makes you feel fabulous, go for it. But if you want to give your skin a pick-me-up and perk-me-up, try these seven steps first. Chances are your skin will feel fresher, younger, and more comfortable before you know it.

Drink More Water
Imagine a fresh, juicy grape—take away its water and what do you have? A shriveled raisin. Skin needs hydration to look and feel its best. If you’re depriving your skin of water, the texture will be dry and papery, plus fine lines and wrinkles may be more visible.

Eat Less Sugar
If you’re a soda drinker or regularly consume other sweetened drinks with sugar, a change may be desperately needed—sugar is theorized to be a major cause of inflammation in the body, which prompts the release of hormones that can trigger acne. Sugar also attaches to proteins including collagen, which can cause skin to be stiff and rigid instead of soft and pliant.

Exercise More Often
When you sweat, harmful toxins are washed away. The increased circulation also helps prompt cellular turnover and collagen production. Be careful, however, if you experience acne or rosacea, since overheating could trigger a flare-up.

Wash With Cold Water
The epidermis contains sebum, a beneficial oil that moisturizes and protects. Hot water—from a shower, for instance—can dissolve and wash it away, leaving skin feeling stripped and dry. Shower and wash your face with cool or tepid water, both of which are gentler on skin and less likely to cause inflammation.

Dry With a Soft Towel
Terrycloth loops are excellent at absorbing moisture, but they’re rough on delicate skin. Pick up a dedicated washcloth or towel for your face in soft microfiber. And when you’re drying, blot don’t rub.

Always Remove Makeup Before Bed
If it’s not already your routine, wash off your makeup. Every. Single. Night. Makeup left on overnight can clog pores with dirt and oil, leading to acne. The best case? An overall dull look. Worst-case scenario? Hygiene-related infections like pink eye.

Stop Picking
As satisfying as it might be to squeeze a pimple or flick away flakes, resist the urge. Constant picking can lead to scarring, which leads to more picking, which leads to more scarring, which leads to…you get the idea.