Healthy skin is smooth and supple. It’s free from irritation, discoloration, and rashes. It also doesn’t show signs of premature aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
Many of the factors that contribute to healthy skin are within your control. They include:
Use Sunscreen
While you should wear sunscreen every day, we recommend using it more frequently when you’re outside. The sun is stronger during the day, so you’ll be exposed to more UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays are long wave rays that penetrate deep under the layers of your skin. They cause wrinkles, premature aging, and even skin cancer. UVB rays are short wave rays that pass right through the layers of your skin. They can cause sunburns, damage your DNA, and increase your risk of skin cancer.
It’s always good to protect your skin from UV rays. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10a and 4p. So, if you plan to be outside during that time, it’s best to be protected.
Do Not Be Too Hard On Your Skin
Exfoliation is a great way to keep your skin healthy. However, you do not have to exfoliate too many times. The skin can be stripped of its natural oils, causing dry and irritated skin. This can cause your skin to become red, itchy, and flaky. It is best to exfoliate once or twice a week.
It is also important to use a gentle exfoliant with multiple types of exfoliants in it. This can help to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and excess oils without irritating the skin.
Exercise
Exercising on a regular basis can help boost your mood by improving endorphins in your body. Exercise can help your skin, as well. As we sweat, we flush out toxins and bacteria that build up on the skin.
Increased blood flow after exercising can also make you look and feel younger. When you exercise, your blood vessels expand, which encourages your skin to look healthier and more vibrant.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Cutting back on certain foods can help you maintain a healthy complexion. For example, eating too much sugar can cause inflammation, which can make the skin appear blotchy. Additionally, eating foods high in fat can make the skin appear greasy. The recommended daily amount of sugar is 6 teaspoons for women and 9 teaspoons for men.
Stay Hydrated
Water makes up more than 60 percent of your skin and 70 percent of your body. Staying hydrated is essential for keeping your whole body healthy, but your skin in particular benefits. It allows your cells to function optimally, including skin cells.
Dehydration can speed up the aging process and cause the skin to look dull, and since a lack of hydration can cause dry skin, drinking plenty of water can help prevent dry skin problems.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep will make a big difference in the appearance of your skin. Sleep deprivation can cause stress, which makes your skin appear dull and tired. Getting enough sleep can help to balance your hormones, which supports healthy skin.
Reduce Stress
Stress causes a variety of problems for your skin. It can cause acne, dry skin, and wrinkles. Plus, stress can deplete your adrenal glands, which can contribute to aging.
Make sure to practice stress-relief techniques. Try meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga. Also, make sure you get enough sleep.
Please reach out to our practice in Wyandotte, MI, to have a consultation with our doctor, Dr. Abrahamson. Please call us at (734) 287-3000 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll guide you further.
