Really smooth skin doesn't have to mean trips to the dermatologist, spa or plastic surgeon. You can get smooth skin by simply taking care good care of it at home. You don't have to spend a fortune on products, either. Refining your skin has much more to do with what you put into your body and how you take care of it, as it does expensive lotions, exotic creams and miracle formulas. Smooth skin basics are simple to incorporate into the busiest schedule.
Step 1
Shower in warm water, rather than hot. Hot water can strip essential natural oils from your skin, so keep the temperature just a few degrees warmer than your skin. Try to limit your time in the shower to 15 minutes or less when you can.
Step 2
Exfoliate. According to the experts at Care Fair, when you exfoliate, you remove the dull, dead skin cells that have accumulated, revealing the smoother skin underneath. Put a generous amount of a mild cleanser onto a loofah or net scrubber and go over your entire body with it. Massage your skin gently in small, circular motions. Don't scrub too hard or you will irritate your skin.
Step 3
Moisturize with an ointment. An article on the American Academy of Dermatologists' website explains: "Moisturizers that come in ointment form contain the most oil because an ointment, by definition, consists of 80 percent oil and 20 percent water. This water-in-oil emulsion forms a protective layer on the skin and makes it more 'moisturizing' than creams and lotions." Massage the ointment into your skin while it is still a little bit damp.
Step 4
Exercise. In an April 2009 interview with "Psychology Today," New York dermatologist Dr. Helen Flamenbaum explains that "Exercise is good for every organ in the body. Because the skin is the largest organ, it goes without saying that the skin benefits as well." Increased blood flow helps to firm and tighten skin, and working up a healthy sweat cleans out the pores.
Step 5
Stay hydrated. Dr. G. Todorov, on his website Smart Skin Care, advocates drinking between six and eight 8 oz. glasses of water every day, but cautions you not to have water too close to bedtime as this can lead to puffiness in the morning.
Step 6
Wear sunblock. An article by the Mayo Clinic staff says protecting your skin from the sun is the most important thing you can do for your skin. Sun exposure is both drying and damaging and can lead to age spots; dry, rough skin; freckles; and wrinkles. Make applying sunblock a part of your morning routine.
Tips and Warnings
- Eat a nutritious diet high in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, fiber and healthy fats to give your body the fuel it needs to look your best.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, as they are both damaging to the skin.
Things You'll Need
- Mild cleanser
- Loofah or net scrubber
- Moisturizing ointment
- Water
- Sun block
References
- Mayo Clinic: Five Tips for Healthy Skin
- Care Fair: Exfoliation--It's Not Just for Women Anymore
- American Academy of Dermatology: Bathing and Moisturizing Guidelines
- "Psychology Today"; "Improve Your Skin With Exercise"; Marissa Krystal; April 10, 2009
- Smart Skin Care: What Diet is Best For Your Skin?
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