Your complexion is the natural color, texture, and overall appearance of your skin. A suntan tan may appear to improve your complexion short term by giving it a healthy glow. The cumulative effects of the suns' ultraviolet (UV) rays, however, can lead to premature wrinkles, roughness, dryness and uneven skin tones. The best thing you can do for your complexion is to limit sun exposure, according to the Mayo Clinic. Certain skin care products along with diet, exercise and other beauty tips may also improve your complexion.
Sunscreen
When it comes to caring for your complexion, first and foremost on your list should be sunscreen, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Sunscreen can protect your skin from UVB radiation, which causes sunburn, and UVA radiation, which causes skin to lose its elasticity wrinkle, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The Mayo Clinic advises that you apply plenty of sunscreen to your face and exposed areas of your body about 30 minutes prior to heading outdoors.
Hydroxy Acids
Hydroxy acids are often contained in moisturizers that exfoliate the skin. The AAD says exfoliation sloughs off the surface layer of dead skin cells which can cause skin to appear rough and dry. Hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid can smooth and soften your complexion.
Retinoids
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that accelerate the turnover of skin cells and can improve the appearance of your complexion, according to the AAD.
Tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova) is a prescription-only retinoid cream that has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a wrinkle treatment. Retinol is a milder over-the-counter version of tretinoin.
Diet
A healthy diet that includes ample servings of fruits and vegetables can help promote a healthy looking complexion according to the Mayo Clinic. Fruits that may be especially beneficial to your skin include apples, berries, cherries and melons. Good vegetable choices include asparagus, spinach and celery. Fish, nuts and olive oil may also give your complexion a glow.
Exercise
Getting regular exercise may help improve your complexion. Any increase to the body's circulation will enhance the appearance of your skin, according to Psychology Today. It specifically recommends stress-busting type activities such as yoga that may help smooth facial lines.
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