Caring for your skin doesn’t require a 12-step skincare routine but rather basic habits like wearing sunscreen and washing your face at the end of the day. Skin is the body’s largest organ and deserves to be pampered so it remains vibrant and glowy. Keep reading for our top tips for healthy skin!
1. Protect your skin from the sun.
One of the most important things to do for healthy skin is to protect it from the sun’s harmful rays. The chance of skin cancer, wrinkles, age spots, and other skin issues becomes much higher without sun protection, besides the painful and uncomfortable sunburn. Even on cloudy days, it’s important to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 every day, especially on your face and neck. Many facial moisturizers now have SPF already added, so you can hydrate and protect your skin all in one step! If you spend long periods of time outdoors, remember to reapply sunscreen every couple of hours and wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.
2. Wash your face gently.
Resist the urge to scrub your face and use harsh exfoliants. Scrubbing can actually irritate your skin, especially if you’re prone to acne. Instead, gently massage a mild cleanser into your skin and use lukewarm water to rinse, then pat your skin dry with a clean towel. If you have sensitive skin, you’ll most likely want to use a fragrance-free cleanser or one specifically formulated for sensitive skin so as to not cause further irritation. Also, it’s recommended to wash your face both morning and night and if you’re a makeup user, it’s crucial to remove all traces of makeup before going to sleep. The time you are asleep is restorative for your body and skin, so having makeup and dirt-clogged pores all night is likely to cause breakouts.
3. Keep your skin moisturized.
Another tip for healthy skin is to immediately moisturize after washing your skin in order to lock in as much moisture as possible. Even those with oily skin need daily hydration to protect the skin’s natural barrier. Look for moisturizers and lotions that fit your unique needs, whether you have dry, oily, combination, or sensitive skin.
4. Prioritize healthy eating habits.
It’s true– you are what you eat, and there are many nutrient-rich foods that promote healthy skin. For example, many fruits, vegetables, and green tea are high in antioxidants which help the skin look and feel healthy. Fats such as olive oil, fish oil, nuts, and seeds are also great for preventing dry skin. Drinking plenty of water every day is another great tip for healthy skin, as well as taking vitamins and supplements in addition to a healthy diet. Vitamin C works to brighten skin tone and increase collagen production, and Vitamin E is a great source for reducing inflammation.
5. Manage stress.
Studies have shown that there is a link between stress and skin problems. Acne isn’t the only thing to pop up when you’re stressed. Some issues such as psoriasis and eczema can flare up during times of stress as well. Mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga can be a great first step in tackling your stress levels. Exercise in general is a great stress reliever and is beneficial for your overall physical and mental wellness.
6. Stop smoking.
Smoking ages your skin, particularly around the mouth, causing wrinkles and reducing elasticity and collagen. Because it shrinks the blood vessels in your skin, blood flow decreases and your skin is left looking lifeless and deprived of essential nutrients. Reach out to us today for help on how to quit smoking and support throughout the process.
7. Choose skincare products carefully.
When it comes to skincare, less is more and when you find a product and skincare routine that works for your skin, then stick to it. Focus on the basics– cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF, and avoid using too many anti-aging products at the same time. Products with strong agents can react with each other and cause skin irritation if used incorrectly or too frequently. Knowing your skin type (sensitive, dry, normal, oily, or combination) is also critical for determining what skincare products are right for you. Look for products targeted to your unique needs!
We hope these tips for healthy skin were both informative and helpful! If you’re struggling with a skin problem or would just like more information, contact us with any questions or concerns, and our team will do everything they can to help!
