Friday, May 29, 2015

5 Tips for Healthier Skin

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Did you know that skin is the body's largest and heaviest organ? For that reason, it's a big indicator of how healthy we are. Are you someone who's constantly battling determined zits? Maybe you're like me, trying hard not to scratch your dry, flaky skin off? Regardless of what skin dilemmas you're facing, we're all striving for the same thing: beautiful, healthy skin. 

1. Drink enough water
I'm sure that you heard this rule many times by now: aim for 8 cups of water a day and with good reason. The skin serves as a barrier to prevent extra fluid loss. Rachel Nazarian, M.D., dermatologist says that inadequate water intake causes the skin to appear duller and wrinkles and pores to be more prominent. This may be because water plumps the skin and causes wrinkles and pores to get filled in. When skin is hydrated and plump, it's less likely to let in external participles that can irritate the skin. Water also prevent breakouts by decreasing the concentration of oil in your skin.

2. Eat a healthy diet
Including antioxidants in your meals is beneficial for your body, including your skin. Vitamins A, C, and E reduces the damage caused by free radicals to slow the aging process. A great way to get antioxidants is to eat a wide variety of fruits and veggies. Well-reputable sources includes berries, citrus fruits, peppers, and dark leafy greens. Omega-3 fatty acids help keep the epidermis strong and intact to prevent the skin from getting polluted. Plant-based sources include seeds, beans, cabbages, and winter squashes. 

3. Exercise daily
Did you know that working out is good for your skin? It increases blood flow to the skin cells, which contains oxygen and nutrients. This also carries away waste products, including free radicals. Research demonstrates that exercise helps lower stress levels. Definitely beneficial for those of us looking to prevent flare-ups! Some helpful tips are to stay indoors during the peak hours, put on sunscreen with a SPF of 30, and wear loose-fitting clothing.

4. Keep hands-off
I know that it's tempting but try to avoid touching your face. By placing your hands on your skin, you are adding bacteria and oil to your face, which increases the chance of breaking out and causing inflammation. Be sure to wash your face once in the morning and again in the evening with lukewarm water and then cold water. If you wear glasses, wash them in a similar manner. Tie your hair back or push it back with a headband to keep loose strands off your face. 

5. Visit the dermatologist
Unfortunately, I had to learn this the hard way. Just because a product says it's suitable for your skin type doesn't mean it is. Online reviews always get the best of me, especially if the individual seems to describe the exact skin condition I seem to have. However, it's better to go see an expert to discuss your skin concerns. He or she can run some tests to see if you have anything serious. From there, the two of you can devise a skin regime that works for you.

I hope these tips help the best of us achieve that healthy glow we all want. Keep in mind that these are just basic tips for maintaining healthy skin. Everyone's skin is different and thus skin care may vary. What type of skin do you have and how do you take care of it?

Sources:
  • http://www.webmd.com/beauty/skin/nutrients-for-healthy-skin-inside-out?page=1
  • http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/drinking-water-for-better-skin

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