Keeping Your Skin Healthy Starts with Simple, Practical Steps

Obviously, if you visit a dermatologist, for a well visit, or for an issue that needs to be treated, your mind is on your skin. There are thousands of products, tips, techniques and procedures that have been developed in the United States just to make skin look healthier and to give that elusive “glow” that so many people are after. There is so much out there, in fact, that it can get completely overwhelming. But did you know that there are a few simple and easy steps you can take in keeping your skin healthy and glowing?

First, protect yourself from the sun. UV rays, including both UVA and UVB rays can do major damage to your skin. The sun and UV rays cause damage that isn’t visible immediately to the naked eye. We associate damage with sun burn, but truthfully, staying tan all summer long, no matter how much you love how it looks, is actually damaging your skin. In fact, you can sustain damage from the sun even on a winter day, as sun reflects off the snow, or on an overcast day, because UV rays are still penetrating that cloud cover. Wear protective clothing, find a hat you can love and wear sunscreen, preferably with an SPF of more than 15 and one that protects against UVA and UVB rays.

Second, quit smoking. Smoking is associated with premature aging and with fine lines, wrinkles and sagging skin. Smoking deprives the skin of oxygen and nutrients, and additives in cigarettes are harmful to skin. Smokers often also have more sun exposure, compounding the damage. There was a study, and there is an interesting pictorial on WebMd of identical twins, some of whom smoked and others who did not, and the difference in appearance of the smoker is startling every time. So give up the cigarettes!

Third, drink a lot of water. Not only is water great for weight loss, it is also excellent for flushing your system and helping to keep your skin clean, clear and hydrated.

Fourth, maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and low on the fat. Keep your systems clean and clear and they will help take care of your skin.

Fifth, get out and exercise! This could be yoga or running or gardening or gold, depending on what works for you. The key is to get moving, which will reduce stress and also get your circulation and heart pumping.

Sixth, and final, keep your skin care regimen pretty simple. You need a cleanser, a moisturizer and a good sunscreen will take care of most of your needs. You also shouldn’t jump around to different products all the time – give things time to work!