Your skin is your armor. Afterall, skin is the body’s largest organ, and part of its purpose is to serve as a barrier and protect us from the environment. That includes dangerous substances like toxins, germs, and bacteria.
To keep our “armor” effective, we need to protect it from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Furthermore, healthy skin helps to regulate body temperature and keep us comfortable.
Good skin also has a mental health component. It can improve our appearance and self-esteem. Dry, dull, or blemished skin can make you feel self-conscious and affect your confidence.
Luckily, simple habits will keep you looking and feeling good.
Tips for Healthy Skin
Good skin care doesn’t have to involve a complex routine. Basic steps go a long way to giving your skin the pampering it deserves, according to the Mayo Clinic.
- Protect it — The sun is one of the leading causes of skin damage and aging. To protect your skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and a hat, and seek shade when the sun is strongest — between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Hydrate it — Keeping your skin hydrated is essential for a healthy complexion. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and use a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type.
- Be gentle — Cleansing, toning, and moisturizing, are the building blocks of a good skincare routine. Avoid using harsh products when cleansing. They can strip your skin of its natural oils. Use a toner to help balance your skin’s pH and a moisturizer to hydrate.
- Sleep — Sleep is important for overall health, including the health of your skin. During sleep, your body repairs itself, including your skin. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night to help your skin look its best.
- Eat right — What you eat has a direct impact on your skin. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet, as well as lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar, which can cause inflammation and breakouts.
- Don’t smoke or drink too much — Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can have negative effects on the health of your skin. Smoking can cause premature aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and a dull complexion, while excessive alcohol consumption can dehydrate the skin and lead to redness and puffiness.
- Relax — Remember that your skin is an organ and stress can trigger negative responses. In the case of skin, that includes breakouts and other problems. Maintain a healthy state of mind, set reasonable limits, and do things for yourself.
The Why of Skin Care
Taking care of your skin is important for both physical and emotional reasons. Your skin can regenerate, to a degree. Still, it’s the only skin you have, and the effects of harmful habits can appear years down the road. That is why it’s so important to take good care of yourself, and your skin.
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