The secret to healthy skin lies in consistent, daily care. A simple skin care routine coupled with a healthy lifestyle will create a radiant, youthful complexion.
Tips for Healthy Skin
Whatever your age or your skin type, your beauty will shine through when you follow these suggestions:
Be gentle when you care for your skin. Use a mild, natural cleanser and warm water. Synthetic detergents and hot water are harsh. Cleanse face by gently massing with fingertips. Rinse well and lightly pat dry.
Moisturize daily. Unless you have acne, your skin needs a moisturizer. This step will smooth, soften, and protect your skin. Again, choose a natural brand based on your skin type.
Next...look at your general health.
There is truth to the cliché beauty begins within. Healthy looking skin is a reflection of your overall well being. As a visible organ, your skin mirrors whats going on inside your body.
To achieve optimum health, adopt a holistic approach... caring for your mind, body, and emotions. When you feel good, you look good (and vice versa).
Daily Healthy Skin Habits
You know the routine... but as a refresher, here are the highlights:
Healthy foods: Enjoy a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables for healthy skin daily. Include other nutritious foods such whole grains and high quality, low fat protein. Cold water fish such as salmon, herring, and mackerel provide healthy Omega3 fatty acids. (Read more: healthy foods for your skin).
Beauty sleep: They call it beauty sleep for a reason... a lack of sleep will show on your face! Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep nightly.
Regular exercise: Get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
Stress management: Make time for relaxation. Many find stress-reducing activities such as meditation, yoga, and tai-chi helpful. Whatever, you do, have fun!
More Beautiful Skin Tips
Practice Safe Sun. Winter or summer, skin needs protection from ultraviolet rays. Nothing says wrinkles like years in the sun. Read Sun Protection guidelines.
Don't Smoke! It's devastating to health... and it causes wrinkles. Smoking decreases oxygen, narrows blood vessels, and damages elastic fibers (translation...sagging skin and lots of wrinkles).
Avoid toxic chemicals in skin care products. Safe, non-toxic skin care products not only promote beautiful skin, they are kinder to your body.
Skin care self-exam.
It is critical to examine your skin thoroughly for any unusual changes or growths on a regular basis. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a bi-monthly schedule. The AAD website offers clear instructions for the "perfect skin exam". The exam takes less than 10-minutes... and it could be a lifesaver.
See a physician if you notice anything unusual. Also, check with your health care provider if you develop a rash, persistent itching, or any unexplained skin problem.
Your Health, Your Skin
Skin is your protective coat of armor. It shields organs and tissues within. It regulates body temperature, and detects hot, cold, and dangerous. That all-important human touch comes through skin sensation.
Your skin deserves exceptional care. Make healthy skin care a priority!
