You should be on the lookout for both the internal and external factors that affect the health and glow of your skin. When you neglect your skin, you can attract some skin issues that can either ruin the appearance of your skin or progress to serious medical problems. One can end up with both. Thus, caring for your skin should be a daily routine. Below are some of the steps you can take to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is not good for your skin and overall well-being. Cigarette smoking can narrow blood vessels affecting blood flow to the skin, and damage elastin and collagen. This can lead to premature aging and wrinkles. Also, smoking does increase the risk for skin conditions such as cancer and lupus. According to smokefree.gov, smoking harms almost every organ in the body including brain, ears, eyes, mouth, heart, lungs, and stomach. Therefore, if you smoke, consider quitting, not only for your skin, but other organs as well.
Drink Water
Water is essential for the optimal functioning of every organ. And since the skin is an organ, drinking enough water everyday ensures that the skin cells are well hydrated. This will keep your skin from appearing dry and flaky. Other than plain water, you can consider fresh fruit juices and soups. You can also spice up your water using citrus fruits when you are having a hard time drinking plain water. There is no exact recommendation about how much water you should drink each day. Most experts will tell you to follow your thirst and watch your hourly intake so that you don’t cause water intoxication.
Consider Shorter Cooler Showers
Showers are important because they help in getting rid of dirt and preventing the skin from infections. However, long and hot showers can have a negative impact on your skin. They can strip your skin of the natural oils leaving it dry. Therefore, for a healthy and glowing skin, consider shorter and cooler showers. As Herbal Dynamics Beauty notes here showering in cold water can actually improve blood circulation in the skin. An optimal blood flow ensures that the skin cells get an adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen.
This could lead to a glowing skin and faster repair of the damaged cells. The article further notes that, by taking a cold shower, there is a psychological change that can promote the release of hormones that help fight stress. Stress can cause wrinkles and dark circles around the eyes. With a cold shower you can fight this cause. However, don’t take a cold shower if it is not safe for you to do so.
Use Sunscreen
The sun is a good source of vitamin D but it can also be damaging to your skin. To keep your skin safe from the damaging effect of the sun, consider wearing a sunscreen when you go outside. Also, get some sunglasses especially for summer, and wear wide brimmed hats and long sleeved shirts to keep your skin safe.
Don’t Use Products that are Harsh and Not Ideal for Your Skin
Harsh products will damage your skin and ruin its glow. If you use a product and it causes itchiness, a burning sensation, dryness, tightness, rash, peeling or acne, those are signs it may not be the right product for you.
Always check the ingredients when you are buying skin care products. Also, when getting any service that touches on your skin such as a massage, manicure or pedicure, go for a service provider who has the expertise and uses products that are good for your skin.
