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Nourish and protect your skin

With proper nutrition, adequate exercise and other lifestyle changes, you can improve the condition of your skin and your overall health.

Drink plenty of water

Most people know about the benefits of drinking water on your general health. Water also is also a crucial part of keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. If your skin is dry and dull, try increasing your intake of water as well as using a regular moisturizer. If you exercise a lot or live in dry climate, you may need more than the recommended 8 glasses of water per day. Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can leave you dehydrated.

Exercise regularly

Exercise is important to keep your body fit, but it's also great for your skin. Cardiovascular exercise keeps nutrients circulating through your blood stream so that can repair and nourish your skin. Exercise regularly to help improve the appearance and health of your skin. Also eat a balanced diet of lean meat, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and good fat to keep your skin and body healthy.

Eat foods rich in essential fatty acids

Essential fatty acids (EFA's) are very important in maintaining skin's health. They support skin structure and reduce inflammation. Most Americans get plenty of Omega-6 (found in processed food, red meat and eggs) but not enough Omega-3 (found in cold water fish, such as salmon, sardines and tuna, as well as flaxseed and nuts). Try to integrate foods rich in Omega-3 into your regular diet.

Use healthy skincare products

Your skin is the body's primary protector against toxins and germs. If your skin is healthy, then it's able to provide better protection. It's important that you use caution when using skincare and haircare products because many of them are not good for your skin. Detergents, petrochemicals, fragrances and other ingredients can clog pores, cause irritation and damage your skin. Look for cleansers, moisturizers, cosmetics and other skincare products that use natural and botanical ingredients rather than harsh chemicals.

Protect yourself from the sun

The UV rays of the sun can cause premature aging, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, discolorations and even skin cancer. Protect your skin with a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. If you are going to be in direct sunlight for long period of time, wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your scalp and eyes as well.

Get quality sleep

Your skin needs time to repair itself. Make sure to get an adequate amount of quality sleep. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep, but the time varies tremendously from person to person. Test yourself a few nights in a row by sleeping until you wake up naturally. Then you can try to go to bed in time to get this amount of sleep. Also try to avoid stress, which can cause breakouts, inflammation and other skin problems.

Avoid cigarette smoke and pollutants

Studies show that the skin of cigarette smokers ages more than twice as fast as that of non-smokers. Smoking dehydrates your skin and depletes it of essential nutrients. Air pollution also can cause similar problems. Detoxify your skin by quitting smoking and limiting exposure to second hand smoke and other pollutants.

Fight free radicals with antioxidants

Free radicals result from the exposure stressors, including the sun, smoke and pollution. Free radicals can cause inflammation and cellular damage to the collagen in the skin. Collagen is one of the main components of the connective tissue that keeps skins firm and wrinkle free. Antioxidants can fight free radicals and their damage. Vitamins A, C, and E are antioxidants that are found in brightly colored fruits, berries, vegetables and some legumes. Eat foods rich in antioxidants and take supplements as necessary.

By following these skincare tips, you can nourish, protect and repair your skin.

from: sheknows.com by Kori Ellis