From infection prevention to organ protection, our skin plays a massive role in our health, along with how we experience and interact with the world.
Here are 7 proven practices you can use to keep your skin – the body’s largest organ – clean and healthy.
1. Maintain a Healthy Diet
Before you spend money on a product that promises to nourish your skin on the outside, take a look at your overall diet to ensure that you’re first feeding your skin from within. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins will not only help you feel your best, but also look your best with skin-nourishing antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids.
2. Protect Yourself From The Sun
Too much sun can not only dry out your skin, but also create damaging and unsightly fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. If you do find yourself out in the sun a lot, protection is key. Liberally apply sunscreen of at least SPF 15 every few hours, and be on the lookout for shady areas, especially between 10am and 2pm when the sun is at its strongest. Be sure to also wear sun protective clothing like long sleeve shirts, pants, and hats to further limit exposure.
3. Cleanse Your Face
Wash your face daily with a gentle, non-toxic cleanser. This ensures you don’t strip away valuable oils for your face, while also ridding your pores of dirt, grime, and bacteria.
4. Minimize Stress
Uncontrolled stress has been shown to trigger acne outbreaks, and in some cases, even hives that can dramatically harm your skin. Find a way to control your stress levels to promote better health across your entire body, your skin included.
5. Sleep Well
Getting ample, rejuvenating sleep is extremely important for proper skin and tissue rejuvenation. Be sure to turn off all cell phones, TVs, and other stimulating digital devices about 30 minutes before your head hits the pillow to clear your mind for a restful sleep cycle.
6. Exercise Regularly
Any form of exercise – from yoga to running – will increase blood flow to the skin to keep it looking vibrant and free of toxins. Exercise will also help naturally reduce stress levels, which we know to have an unsightly effect on skin.
7. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration has been shown to cause dry, cracked skin, along with dark under-eye circles and acne. To prevent these, drink plenty of water to feed the skin from the inside and keep it soft and supple.
