Sunscreen
Overexposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can cause sunburns, which increase the risk of skin cancer and lead to long-lasting damage to the outer layers of the skin. Overexposure can be prevented by avoiding peak ultraviolet rays in the middle of the day. However, if you can’t avoid going out, then the best way to protect your skin is sunscreen. Use one with a high sun protection factor, ideally an SPF 30 or even 50. Sunscreen is fully effective only for two hours after application. Therefore, you should carry a bottle with you to renew it if you are planning to stay out longer than that. Other ways to protect your skin from the sun include wearing sunglasses, wide hats, and clothing with ultraviolet protection. For best results, protective measures should be used all year round.
Daily Cleansing
Another important way to protect the skin is by gently cleansing it every day. Wash your face each morning to remove any remaining dirt and bacteria from the night. Before going to bed, always remember to use a mild cleanser to remove makeup and dirt. Then, completely rinse off the cleanser and pat your face dry. Lukewarm water works best in order to keep the skin clean.
A Healthy Diet
There are several key foods that you can add to your diet to help keep your skin healthy and shiny. Here are some of the best ones:
- Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, and herring) are rich in Omega 3 acids.
- Avocados are also high in healthy fats and moisturize the skin.
- Walnuts, which are rich in both Omega 3s and Omega 6s.
- Sunflower seeds as they contain Vitamin E and Zinc.
- Sweet potatoes, which are rich in beta-carotene.
- Red or yellow bell peppers, which contain beta-carotene, Vitamin C, and natural collagen.
- Broccoli, a great source of Leutin, helps to neutralize harmful free radicals in the skin.
- Tomatoes, rich in Vitamin C and carotenoids, are helpful for maintaining the skin’s balance.
- Soy, which contains isoflavones, can improve collagen, elasticity, and dryness, and protect the skin from UV damage.
- Dark chocolate, as it contains antioxidants.
Stay Hydrated
Our skin is an organ made up of cells that need water, just like any other organ in the body. Without water, the organs in our body fail to function properly. If your skin is not getting enough water, the lack of hydration may present itself through skin that appears dry. Dry skin is also prone to wrinkling and will be less resilient than hydrated skin. Drinking plenty of water every day also helps to rid the body and skin of toxins. As a result, your skin will have a more radiant glow. As water is lost in large quantities every day due to our active lives, we need to replace it. Carrying a water bottle will remind you to drink more often.
Manage Stress
Managing your stress levels can help your skin too. Stress can be the main cause of several skin diseases, such as psoriasis and eczema. The stress hormone cortisol can also cause flare-ups of many skin conditions. This can also mean that your skin is more susceptible to irritants, allergens, and bacteria. Practicing stress management techniques can help you maintain a balanced mindset, which will also lead to healthy skin. Some easy ways to reduce your stress levels include breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, and visual imagery. Engaging yourself in activities that you may, personally, find relaxing, such as walking or listening to music, can be beneficial as well.
