Healthy skin is an indicator of overall health, and vice versa. That's because good skin depends on a healthy immune system, which keeps the rest of the body functioning properly. Genetic strength and cosmetic products alone will not create great skin.
Tips from experts can help you bolster lackluster skin by addressing your diet and lifestyle, as well as by treating it daily with quality cosmetic products made for your skin type. Use the wisdom of science and dermatology to sift through manufacturers' claims and create an effective skin care program.
Diet
Eat lots of leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, orange vegetables and fruits, such as carrots and oranges, plus almonds and sunflower seeds. These foods are rich in vitamins A, C and E, which the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) lists as vital to skin health. These antioxidants support the immune system and contribute to mucous membrane and connective tissue health.
Antioxidants in food protect healthy skin from environmental damage. Mayo Clinic diet experts cite ascorbic acid (vitamin C) as an antioxidant of particular importance to skin care. You'll find high vitamin C content in red peppers, kiwi, grapefruit, broccoli, brussels sprouts, strawberries and tomato juice.
Lifestyle
Protection from sun and pollution are good skin care practices. Experts at the AAD strongly recommend wearing an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every day on all exposed skin. Facial care that includes sunblock can delay or prevent fine lines, wrinkles and age spots.
Sunscreen is effective, but not a cure-all for damage from continual exposure. Dermatologists also suggest wearing long pants and sleeves and hats when in direct sun, and avoiding rays entirely by seeking shade when the sun is at its peak. Additional lifestyle tips for healthy skin from the Skin Sciences Institute (SSI) include getting enough sleep and exercise, and not smoking, which can dry and wrinkle skin prematurely.
Products
To minimize skin reactions, doctors at the AAD recommend cosmetic products with little or no fragrance, color and formaldehyde. If you have acne, use noncomedogenic and oil-free skin care items. If you have dry skin, look for humectant ingredients, such as glycerin and aloe vera.
Dermatologists also suggest using facial cleansers without antibacterial or deodorant ingredients. Glycerin-based soaps are mild enough to use twice daily, followed by a lotion or cream moisturizer made for facial skin. Experts on cosmetic products at SSI point out that water as a first ingredient on label listings is a good thing. Among all the products used to achieve healthy skin, water is the naturally the best conditioning agent.
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