Skin care can go a long way in keeping your skin glowing, healthy and vibrant for years. Even if you don’t have time for the intensive skin care treatments, you could still take very good care of your skin by going back to the basics. A number of good lifestyle choices can go a long way in delaying aging and prevention of skin diseases and issues.
Sun Protection
Sun exposure causes age spots, darkening, wrinkles and several other problems, the most serious of which is that it increases the risk of skin cancer. Hence, protecting your skin from the sun is of paramount importance.
Broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF ratings of 15 or more are the best bet. Visiting a cosmetic skin clinic is a good idea to understand what sort of sunscreen you should use. Apply every two hours or more frequently if you are going swimming or going out in intense heat.
Avoid the sun and stay under an umbrella, a tree or a shady structure between 10:00 am and 02:00 pm, as this is the time when the sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Wear tightly-woven long-sleeved shirts, long trousers or pants and wide hats for a protective effect. Some laundry additives can be used which add ultraviolet protection. Another alternative is sun-protective, UV-blocking clothing.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking adds wrinkles and makes you look a lot older. It narrows the blood vessels and capillaries of the outer layers of your skin, and this constriction restricts blood flow. Your skin is thus deprived of nutrients and oxygen which are vital to its health. Further, fibres like elastin and collagen which add elasticity and strength to your skin are damaged and destroyed by smoking. The expression or facial motion for smoking, squinting eyes and pursing lips over time also contributes to wrinkles. Besides all the other health hazards, smoking is also extremely detrimental to the health of your skin, and you should quit immediately.
Treat Your Skin with Utmost Care
Avoid long showers using hot water. Remember that when you take a bath some essential oils from the skin are lost. Use warm water instead of hot water.
Do not use strong soaps. Use mild cleansers as strong soaps take away oil from the skin.
Pat dry gently after a shower. Use a soft towel for blotting your skin dry so that, at least, some moisture is retained.
Moisturizing dry skin is a must. Use a moisturizer that is known to have SPF
Eat Healthy, Eat Well
A healthy, balanced diet is extremely important for your nutrition and health and is also great for your skin. Lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables and fruits should all find a place on your plate daily. Oily food can be avoided to dodge acne, and diets rich in vitamin C and devoid of unhealthy fats or processed carbs make your skin look a lot younger from outside and more nourished from inside.
Control Your Stress Levels
Stress causes wrinkles, makes your skin more sensitive and can also trigger acne breakouts and other issues. Managing stress is vital for your mental health as well as your physical appearance. Cut back on unnecessary tasks on the to-do list, do things you enjoy, and unwind with good music or good friends when you can.