Your skin is an active organ that continually rejuvenates itself with new cell growth--at least under normal circumstances. If nutrient or hydration requirements aren't met, however, skin health suffers and beauty fades. Learn how to maintain a healthy skin balance with proven tips from professional nutritionists, cosmetologists and dermatologists.
Cleanse With Mild Facial Soap
Do no harm to healthy skin during your daily routine by choosing the right facial cleanser. Cosmetologists at the Skin Sciences Institute (SSI) recommend using a mild glycerin-based soap over harsh deodorant, solvent and abrasive cosmetic products.
Apply Moisturizing Lotion After Cleansing
Doctors at the Mayo Clinic encourage the use of a moisturizing cosmetic product, such as a skin care cream, lotion or oil, directly after cleansing. Moisturizers are proven to smooth and plump up skin, reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Fully Remove Facial Makeup
Beauty products such as skin foundation and color for cheeks, lips and eyes can clog pores and irritate delicate facial skin and eyes, if left in place for too long. Skin care experts at SSI recommend that you take it all off at the end of the day. Use a cosmetic product designed for general makeup removal and one specially formulated for eyes, or wash gently with facial soap until no residue remains.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A good diet has long been associated with beautiful and healthy skin---think of the health spas that offer special nutritious meals as part of their services. Nutritionists at the Mayo Clinic suggest following a balanced diet that is low in fat and carbohydrates and high in vitamins, especially vitamin C.
Use SPF 30 Sunscreen Every Day
In addition to age and environmental hazards, ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a main cause of wrinkles, uneven skin tone and skin cancer. Health professionals at the American Academy of Dermatology strongly recommend applying a sunscreen cosmetic product to all exposed skin daily, and reapplying after sweating, swimming or showering.
Don't Use Indoor Tanning Beds
The UVA rays emitted by indoor tanning machines are extremely harmful to healthy skin, especially young skin. People under age 35 shouldn't use tanning beds at all, because their risk for melanoma can increase by 75 percent. Researchers at the Skin Cancer Foundation suggest that you don't tan at all, indoors or out, because both UVA and UVB rays are known to damage skin over time.
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