We are always looking for easy ways to lead a healthy lifestyle and to look our best. We are so quick to try the latest diet fads or exercise programs; however, we so often forget about a critical part of our health: our skin. A good skin care routine is important to keep our skin feeling and looking healthy. With these simple skin care tips, your skin will be glowing!
Drink lots of water. Your skin is made up of cells, which are made up of water. If your skin cells are not getting an adequate amount of water, your skin will become very dry and tight. It will also appear duller, making wrinkles and pores much more visible. Dehydration can also affect the oil glands in your skin, making you more susceptible to acne. Drinking enough water is the cheapest skin care routine out there, so why would you not do it? Plus, it benefits your entire body as well!
Protect your skin from UV rays. The sun can be quite harmful to your skin, causing wrinkles and age spots, as well as increasing the risk of skin cancer. Whether you are spending a day poolside or mowing the lawn, you should always lather on the sunscreen. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and be sure to reapply at least every two hours (or more frequently if you are in water or sweating). Also, try to avoid long durations of exposure to the sun when its rays are strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). You can also protect your skin by wearing protective clothing, such as a sun hat, long-sleeved shirt and pants. If you want to be sun-kissed, skip the harmful tanning bed and invest in a spray tan or self-tanner lotion. Your skin will thank you!
Consume a healthy diet. While the correlation between a diet and acne is not completely clear, researchers believe that a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and low in processed carbohydrates promote clearer, younger looking skin. Try to consume plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Avoid fried foods or greasy fast food. When you are eating your best, you will not only look your best, but will feel it too!
Do not smoke. Smoking cigarettes will cause your skin to age more quickly, creating more wrinkles. When you smoke, your blood vessels in your skin become narrower, which decreases the blood flow. Then, your skin does not receive a sufficient amount of nutrients and oxygen that it needs. Smoking also does harm to your body’s collagen and elastin, which are what gives your skin its strength and elasticity. If you want to have healthy, glowing skin for years to come, never start smoking, and if you do smoke, you need to quit. Talk with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment option for you to help you quit the bad habit.
Be gentle with your skin. While this tip is rather simple, we so often forget to treat our skin with kindness. You should limit the amount of hot water you expose your skin to, as it removes its natural oils and dries it out. Take quicker showers, and avoid scolding hot water. Also, do not use strong soaps or body washes. Instead, use mild cleansers that are meant for sensitive skin, and always take your makeup off before bed. When you get out of the shower, gently pat your skin dry with a towel rather than scrub your skin harshly. You want to leave some moisture on your skin. Never shave without applying shaving cream or body wash beforehand, and always use a clean, sharp razor. Last but certainly not least, apply a quality moisturizer to your skin daily. These simple tips will leave you feeling healthier and more confident, so what are you waiting for? It is time to love the skin you are in!