SAY HELLO! TO THE BEST SKIN OF YOUR LIFE: HOW TO GET AND KEEP A HEALTHY SKIN

The human skin has always fascinated me; from admiring the wound-healing process to getting amazed at the way it produces sweat and goosebumps!

This has informed my keen interest in promoting healthy skincare routines and encouraging friends, associates, and clients to make conscious efforts towards having skin that is more like a baby’s fresh bottom than a dry potato! You’re probably looking at your skin now - and deep down you want it to look and feel like a baby’s bottom - and wondering how it can glow and grow healthy without the risk of harmful cosmetic ingredients.

WHAT MAKES A HEALTHY SKIN

You want to have a healthy skin; we all do. The human skin is our body’s largest organ, and we all need to keep it in healthy condition. But it involves more than just striving to achieve the look and feel of a baby’s bottom. Healthy skin is more than just the absence of blemishes and breakouts - it is a reflection of conscious healthy routines within and outside your body. Healthy skin looks fresh and young and can withstand harsh weather conditions.?

Healthy skin is about feeling good - it is about having the confidence to show up as your best self and feel comfortable in your own skin. When your skin is healthy, you feel more confident, energized, and ready to take on whatever life throws your way. Throughout this article, we will cover some of the most important steps you can take to achieve healthy skin. From understanding your skin type to developing a consistent skincare routine, we will provide you with practical advice and insights to help you achieve the best skin of your life. Let's dive right in!

UNDERSTANDING YOUR SKIN TYPE

Understanding your skin type is the first step in achieving healthy skin. Your skin type determines the type of care and products that are best suited for your skin. Different skin types exist:

• Oily Skin - produces excess sebum or oil, which can cause acne, enlarged pores, and a greasy appearance.
• Dry Skin - lacks moisture and can be flaky, itchy, and tight.
• Combination Skin - features a combination of oily and dry areas, with an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and dry cheeks.
• Sensitive Skin - prone to redness, itching, and irritation and easily irritated by products and environmental factors.

To determine your skin type, you can do a simple test by washing your face with a gentle cleanser and waiting an hour. If your skin feels tight, it is likely dry. If it looks and feels greasy, it is likely oily. If it is greasy in the T-zone and dry in other areas, it is likely combination. If your skin is easily irritated, it is likely sensitive.

These individual skin types can be cared for in the following ways:

• Oily Skin - Use oil-free products and avoid heavy moisturizers. Use a gentle cleanser twice a day and exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells.
• Dry Skin - Use a rich, moisturizing cream or lotion daily. Avoid harsh soaps and hot water. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and exfoliate once a week to remove dead skin cells.
• Combination Skin - Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, and exfoliate once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells.
• Sensitive Skin - Use gentle, fragrance-free products that are formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid harsh ingredients such as alcohol, fragrances, and dyes. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser, and avoid hot water. Exfoliate once a week with a gentle scrub.

It is obvious at this point that what works for a particular skin type may not work for another skin type. So do well to understand your skin type and master it, to avoid using the wrong products on your skin. Here is a great resource that will guide you through the process of evaluating your skin type in more detail and understanding the different cosmetic ingredients that can help you achieve healthy skin.

ACHIEVING HEALTHY SKIN

Having a good skincare routine is key to achieving healthy, glowing skin that you’ll love showing off. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Cleansing: Cleansing is an important step in any skincare routine. It helps to remove dirt, oil, and makeup that can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. When choosing a cleanser, look for one that is gentle and formulated for your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for a creamy or oil-based cleanser. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, choose a foaming or gel-based cleanser.

2. Exfoliating: Exfoliating is another important step in any skincare routine. It helps to remove dead skin cells that can clog your pores and make your skin look dull. However, it's important not to overdo it. Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and dryness. Aim to exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on your skin type.

3. Moisturizing: Moisturizing is crucial for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Look for a moisturizer that is formulated for your skin type. If you have dry skin, choose a heavier, creamier moisturizer. If you have oily skin, opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. Don't forget to apply moisturizer to your neck and chest as well.

4. Using sunscreen: Sun damage is one of the biggest contributors to premature aging and skin damage. Sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Make sure to wear sunscreen every day, even if it's cloudy outside. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30. Apply sunscreen to your face, neck, chest, and any other exposed areas.

5. Eating healthy and staying hydrated: What you put in your body can also have an impact on your skin. Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. It is equally important to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.

INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR

In achieving healthy skin, the products you use are just as important as the routine you follow. One key factor is the ingredients in your skincare products. Certain ingredients have been shown to have positive impacts on the health and appearance of human skin. Here are some of the ingredients you should look for in your skincare products:

• Hyaluronic acid: This is a humectant that helps to retain moisture in the skin. It is great for hydrating the skin, and can be found in serums, moisturizers, and masks.
• Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps to brighten the skin and protect against environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays. Look for vitamin C serums, moisturizers, and toners.
• Retinol: A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is known for its anti-aging benefits. It helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can also improve skin texture and tone. Retinol can be found in serums, creams, and oils.
• Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide is great for reducing inflammation and improving skin texture. It can also help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Look for niacinamide in serums, moisturizers, and toners.

A comprehensive overview of the different types of ingredients you might encounter in your skincare products can be found here and will enable you to understand the active cosmetic ingredients that can help you achieve your skincare goals.

LIFESTYLE HABITS FOR HEALTHY SKIN

The lifestyle habits you practice on a daily basis also play a significant role in the health of your skin. Here, we will discuss the impact of lifestyle habits on skin health and how to make healthy choices.

THE IMPACT OF LIFESTYLE HABITS ON SKIN HEALTH

• Smoking: Smoking has been linked to premature aging, wrinkles, and other skin damage. The chemicals in cigarettes can damage collagen and elastin, two proteins that keep skin looking firm and youthful.
• Stress: Chronic stress can cause a range of skin problems, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema. When you are stressed, your body produces cortisol, a hormone that can cause inflammation and break down collagen.
• Sleep: Lack of sleep can cause dark circles, bags under your eyes, and a dull complexion. While you sleep, your body repairs and rejuvenates your skin.

MANAGING STRESS AND GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP

Practice stress-management techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to reduce stress levels. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine. Avoid screens and electronics before bed, as they can interfere with sleep quality.

BENEFITS OF EXERCISE AND A HEALTHY DIET FOR SKIN HEALTH

1. Exercise improves blood flow and oxygenation, which can boost skin health and promote a healthy glow.
2. A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins provides the nutrients your skin needs to stay healthy and radiant.
3. Foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats can cause inflammation and damage collagen, leading to premature aging and other skin problems.

By making healthy lifestyle choices, you can improve the health and appearance of your skin. Incorporate stress-management techniques, prioritize sleep, exercise regularly, and choose a healthy diet rich in nutrient-dense foods.?

MAINTAINING HEALTHY SKIN

The following tips can help you keep your skin healthy and glowing:

1. Be Consistent: Once you've established a skincare routine that works for you, it's important to stick with it. Consistency is very important in achieving and maintaining healthy skin.
2. Adjust Your Routine: As you age or your skin changes due to different factors, you may need to adjust your skincare routine. Pay attention to your skin's needs and adjust your routine accordingly.
3. Professional Skincare Treatments: Consider getting regular professional skincare treatments such as facials and microdermabrasion . These treatments can help improve your skin's texture and appearance, and address specific concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
4. Protect Your Skin: Protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen daily and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. This can help prevent premature aging and reduce your risk of skin cancer.
5. Healthy Habits: Practicing healthy habits such as getting enough sleep, managing stress, and eating a balanced diet can also help maintain healthy skin.

In conclusion, achieving and maintaining healthy skin requires effort, but totally worth it. You can achieve the best skin of your life by understanding your skin type, following a good skincare routine, looking for beneficial ingredients, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Remember, consistency is key. Stick to a skincare routine that works for you and adjust it as needed. Don't forget to schedule regular professional skincare treatments to give your skin an extra boost.

Your skin is your largest organ, and it plays a crucial role in protecting your body from external factors. So, prioritize your skin health and give it the love and care it deserves. Try out all that you have learned so far and see the difference it can make. Here's to the best skin of your life!