As the largest, and most visible, bodily organ, skin deserves a bit of extra care and attention to keep it healthy. Proper skin care can prevent premature aging and many common skin problems, such as acne and dry skin. Ensuring the health of your skin involves more than applying overpriced beauty products before you go to bed at night; it means treating your skin well every day, protecting it from environmental damage and treating problems as soon as they arise.
Daily Skin Care
Bathe daily in warm water using a mild cleanser. Harsh soaps and hot water are drying and irritating to the skin, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Exfoliate two to three times each week to remove dead skin cells, but avoid vigorous scrubbing to prevent skin damage. The University of Iowa recommends moisturizing your skin every morning and night with an oil-based moisturizer to treat and prevent dry skin, a condition more common when environmental humidity is low. Oily skin may benefit from topical retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids or and astringents, states the Derma Doctor website.
Photoaging and Sun Protection
In addition to increasing the risk of skin cancer, sun exposure can cause wrinkles, age spots and other signs of premature aging, explains the University of Virginia Health System. To protect your skin from the sun's damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays, always wear a sunscreen every time you go outdoors, wear wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing, avoid spending time outside during the sun's peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and steer clear of tanning beds. Tell your doctor right away if you develop any symptoms of skin cancer, such as changes in an existing mole or sores that do not heal.
Acne Prevention and Treatment
Acne affects people of all ages, says the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). It occurs when oil produced by the skin mixes with dead skin cells and clogs pores. Without treatment, acne can lead to permanent scars on the skin. To reduce the severity and frequency of acne breakouts, wash your skin twice daily with soap and warm water, exfoliate regularly to remove dead skin cells, remove makeup before going to bed at night, keep your hands and hair off your skin, and use cosmetics and skin care products labeled as noncomedogenic. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are effective at clearing mild to moderate cases of acne. Severe cases require professional treatment and prescription medications.
Treating Skin Wounds
Skin wounds, such as cuts and abrasions, require proper care to prevent infection and scarring. The Better Health Channel website recommends applying pressure to stop bleeding, cleaning skin wounds with sterile saline or an antiseptic and covering wounds with sterile gauze. Seek medical attention for severe bleeding, tetanus-prone wounds and wounds contaminated by dirt or debris.
Depending on the severity and size of the skin wound, healing may take days, weeks or longer. Proper attention immediately after the injury and during the recovery period will reduce the risk of scarring and infection.
Lifestyle Changes for Healthy Skin
Healthy skin depends on internal factors as well as external care. The Mayo Clinic states that smoking, diet and stress all play a significant role in skin health. Eating a balanced diet rich in Vitamin C and low in carbohydrates and fats can improve the overall appearance of the skin. Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine can help prevent acne breakouts and other skin conditions. Smoking decreases blood flow to the skin and damages elastin and collagen. This contributes to wrinkles and other signs of premature aging. Quitting smoking can improve the texture, tone and firmness of the skin.
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