Your skin goes through a lot thanks to frequent bathing and environmental damage from air pollution and the sun. Good skin care helps protect and enrich your skin, to boost its natural health and enhance its appearance. Take care of your skin with products and nutrients that pamper your skin and minimize wrinkles, blemishes and other problems.
Products
To combat signs of aging, including wrinkles or discoloration, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests using a skincare products made with retinoids, salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, peptides, azelaic or kojic acid and hydroquinone. These are ingredients have been proven to effectively treat signs of aging.
Cleansing
Cleaning your skin too often or too roughly can lead to skin damage or excessive oil production, which may lead to a greater risk of breakouts. Only wash your skin twice a day. The Skin Sciences Institute recommends using a mild cleanser and rinsing with lukewarm water, then patting your skin dry with a soft towel. Don't rub, as that can irritate your skin.
Dry Skin
Not only may dry skin feel itchy and uncomfortable, but it may also flake or make wrinkles or sagging more apparent. To prevent dry skin, the National Institutes of Health suggests taking short showers with warm--not hot--water, and moisturizing immediately after bathing with a non-alcohol-based skin lotion. Drinking lots of fluids and running a humidifier in your home may also help keep your skin from drying out.
Acne
If your pores and hair follicles become plugged, you may experience acne, warns the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Regular exfoliation can help keep your skin clear. If you experience acne, try an over-the-counter acne treatment formulated with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, both which help to clear pores and kill bacteria that create pimples.
Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is very preventable, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Limit your risk by wearing a sunscreen with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of 30 or more. Not going outdoors between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun's ultraviolet light is strongest, can also help.
Foods
Foods that are rich in antioxidants can help limit skin damage and defend against signs of aging, such as wrinkles, says the Berkeley University Health Services. Specific antioxidants that are friendly for your skin include vitamin A, found in carrots and Swiss chard; vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and green or red peppers; and vitamin E, found in spinach and asparagus.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology: Selecting Age-Fighting Topicals
- The Skin Sciences Institute: Skin Care - A Practical Guide to Skin Care Products and Ingredients
- National Institutes of Health: Dry Skin
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: Skin Care
- American Academy of Dermatology: Skin Cancer Prevention
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