Skin Health
Eat a healthy diet
Eat plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats (e.g. omega-3 fatty acids), monounsaturated fats (such as olives, avocados), and saturated fats (e.g. coconut oil) ). Drink plenty of water.
Manage stress
Using stress reduction techniques may help to keep your skin looking fresh and clear.
Get your beauty sleep
Getting your beauty sleep will get rid of those dark circles under your eyes and improve your skin tone. Regularly getting the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep can do wonders for your complexion.
Be physically active
Regular exercise is essential for good skin health and also for overall good health. It improves circulation to the skin, which firms it and supplies it with nutrients. You don't have to spend hours in the gym to see results; a brisk walk for just 20 minutes to half an hour several times a week is enough to make a difference. For even greater benefits, weight and endurance training are recommended. Most important, however, is doing something you enjoy - that way you will keep at it.
Stay well hydrated
Drink plenty of water for good hydration. Use a moisturizer as necessary.
Don't smoke/ quit smoking
Smoking makes your skin look older and contributes to wrinkles. Smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the skin which decreases blood flow. This also depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients that are important to skin health.
Reduce alcohol intake
Alcohol is dehydrating, causing wrinkles. It also increases inflammation to the skin. If you drink, it is recommended to drink moderately, and also drink lots of water.
Beware of too much sun exposure
A modest amount of exposure to the sun (without sunscreen) is a great way to get your vitamin D. However, you don't want to overdo it. If you will be outside for a longer time, sunscreen is recommended, as well as wearing protective clothing and staying in the shade as much as possible.
These steps will go a long way to improving the health of your skin, and they will greatly benefit your overall health as well.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. Skin care: 5 tips for healthy skin. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/skin-care/art-20048237 Accessed September 26, 2022.
- Five life hacks for healthy skin. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320071 Accessed October 4, 2022.
- Migala J. The scientific reasons that exercise can give you better-looking skin. https://www.everydayhealth.com/skin-beauty/the-scientific-reasons-why-exercise-can-give-you-better-looking-skin/ November 4, 2019. Accessed October 6, 2022.
