Healthy and glowing skin is one of the sure signs of good health. Clear, smooth skin boosts your attractiveness and thus will enhance your self esteem. There are many things we can do to maintain our skin and here are five of the best.
1. Protect yourself from the sun
Sun damaged skin is both unappealing and aging. Whenever you are out in the sun, make sure you have applied sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15.Apply it every two hours and more often if you are swimming. Wear protective clothing such as a long, close-weaved sleeved shirt and a wide brimmed hat and seek out the shade wherever possible. By taking these steps you will not only be helping your skin to look younger but you will also be reducing the chance of developing skin cancer.
2. Eat the right foods
There are certain foods which can boost the health of your skin. Healthy omega-3 fats enable your skin to remain smooth and supple and these fats are present in oily fish like salmon and mackerel. Another essential element, vitamin C is a nutrient which helps the skin’s collagen production. Collagen is part of the connective tissue that in skin helps firmness and suppleness and is vital for skin elasticity. Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit contain vitamin C, as do berries and bananas. Vitamin A is also important for the repair and maintenance of your skin and can be found in carrots, sweet potatoes and chili.
3. Stop smoking
We all know the increased risk a smoker faces of succumbing to cancer. But smoking is also thought to accelerate the effects of sun damage and it certainly promotes skin wrinkling. Every draw on a cigarette increases the chances of wrinkles around the mouth. Quitting smoking will not only benefit your overall health in numerous ways, it will also save you money and improve the appearance of your skin.
4. Moisturize regularly
Of course it isn’t possible to turn back the clock, but the daily use of a moisturizer by both men and women can slow down the whole process of skin aging. Dry skin shows wrinkles more easily, so by using a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated, the appearance of fine lines is reduced. You don’t have to go for the most expensive product on the shelf either – many cheaper brands will do just as good as job as the dearer ones. Determine whether your skin is oily, dry, normal or sensitive and use a moisturizer specifically designed for your skin type. For those with sensitive skin, an oil free, fragrance free moisturizer is a good choice.
5. Sleep well
Research has shown that skin repair and renewal happen at night. Less than five hours of poor quality sleep at night will accelerate the development of fine lines and cause the skin to become dehydrated. So it is important to try to get at least seven hours of uninterrupted sleep. You will then enjoy the benefits of better skin as well as having the energy to enjoy the next day.
Your steps to a lifetime of better skin
The rules for better skin are not hard to follow. Protect yourself in the sun with sunscreen and protective clothing, eat plenty of foods rich in omega-3 and vitamins A and C. If you smoke, quit now. Get into the habit of moisturizing diligently using a moisturizer suitable for your skin type and try to get at least seven hours of sleep every night. You will then be rewarded with healthy, glowing skin and be able to face the world with confidence, sure that you look your best.
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