Skin is the largest and most exposed organ of your body, which is why it requires a lot of care and attention if you want to keep it healthy and glowing. There are a lot of myths and stories out there about what’s good and what’s bad for your skin. If you want to cut through the clutter and find out what you can do to keep your skin healthy, these 8 science-backed secrets are all you need.
1. Understand Your Skin Type
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that a careful and consistent skin care routine using products designed for specific skin types can gradually improve the overall health and appearance of the skin over time. If you want your skin to be healthy, first find out your skin type and then tailor-make a skin care routine with products made for that skin type.
2. Sunny Or Cloudy, Always Use Sunscreen
Whether it’s a bright sunny day or a cloud-covered sky overhead, never let go of your sunscreen. UV rays are one of the biggest factors responsible for skin damage and aging, and applying sunscreen is your best shot at protecting your skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, harmful UV rays can penetrate your skin even on cloudy fall days, which is why you should always apply sunscreen when you step out.
3. Shield Your Skin With Antioxidants
Antioxidants prevent your skin from premature aging, which is why most anti-aging products use an antioxidant-rich formula. But that does not mean you should not use antioxidants in your 20s and 30s. According to dermatologists, antioxidants can protect your skin from environmental aggressors like free radicals which attack and break down your skin’s collagen and elastin fibers. So make sure you supply your skin with enough antioxidants.
4. Wash Your Face At Least Twice A Day
While it’s good to invest in skincare products that help keep your skin taut and young, you must not overlook basic skin hygiene. Regularly washing away dirt and grime from your skin, especially after working out, will go a long way in keeping your skin healthy. The AAD recommends that you should wash your skin every morning, night, and after an intense, sweaty workout. Sweat should never be allowed to stay on your skin for too long.
5. Never Forget To Moisturize
Keeping your skin hydrated should be a basic part of your skin care routine. The months of fall and winter draw away the moisture from your skin leaving it dry and parched. So make sure you moisturize your skin from head to toe so that no region of your body is left dry. The AAD mentions that apart from giving your skin comfort and radiance, moisturizing also reduces some signs of premature aging.
6. Exfoliate Every Week
New skin cells are constantly being formed as the old ones die. While much of the dead skin just falls off without you even noticing it, some of the dead cells remain on top making your skin look dull and lifeless. The layer of dead skin cells also makes it hard for moisturizers to penetrate deeper into your skin. By exfoliating your skin once a week, you can make sure all the dry, dead skin has been removed.
7. Have A Well-Balanced Diet
When it comes to your skin, your diet is just as important as the products you use to take care of your skin. According to the AAD, a healthy diet and lifestyle promotes healthy-looking skin. If your skin care routine is on track but you’re still not able to see the difference, it’s probably because of a bad diet. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet. And also make sure you hydrate yourself from the inside by drinking enough water every day.
8. Get A Good Night’s Sleep
There’s nothing more refreshing than waking up after a good night’s sleep. According to dermatologists, during the hours of sleep, your skin cells are working on reparation and regeneration through a process known as mitosis. If you don’t get enough rest, you’ll end up with tired, dull-looking skin. So pay attention to the quality of your sleep and set a go-to-bed routine that helps you sleep well.
