Everyone wants clear, healthy-looking skin. However, it can be easy to get lost in the countless products and trends promising a flawless look. The solution to a radiant complexion might be simpler than you think. If you want to take a natural approach to skincare, discover six scientifically proven habits for better skin health.
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
What you eat daily affects all major body systems, including your skin. You might want to buy fewer processed foods the next time you visit the supermarket and get these nutritious alternatives instead:
- Bright-coloured vegetables: Carrots, tomatoes and leafy greens are great sources of carotenoids — a nutrient that can help reduce skin discolouration with regular consumption.
- Almonds: These nuts help improve the appearance of wrinkles.
- Seafood: Fish like salmon contain omega-3 fatty acids that can help prevent premature skin ageing.
- Dark red grapes: This fruit contains flavonoids that can help combat premature skin ageing. Snack on grapes on their own or add them to your overnight oats.
2. Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure
Sunny days might be great for your mood, but not your skin. Excessive exposure may lead to skin colour changes, premature wrinkles, loose skin and skin cancer. Protect yourself from the sun with the following tips:
- Use sunscreen: Regardless of race, age and gender, use a product containing at least SPF 30 and apply it 15 minutes before heading outdoors. Lather it all over your face and exposed body parts.
- Wear protective clothing: Protect your body with long-sleeved shirts, UV-protective sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats to keep you cool and comfortable. Always bring an umbrella with you if you prefer wearing short-sleeved outfits.
3. Stay Hydrated
When you’re dehydrated, your body pulls moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and itchy. Drinking water throughout the day can help refresh it. No amount of water can help prevent wrinkles, but proper hydration can make your skin look plumper and healthier.
Always bring a reusable water bottle with you to make drinking easier. You can also infuse it with fruits — such as lemon, cucumber or even both — to boost the flavour and nutrients.
4. Exercise Regularly
Your sedentary lifestyle might be the culprit behind your dull-looking skin. Consider making time for regular exercise, as it offers many health benefits. Burning calories also reduces stress and anxiety, which helps decrease the risk of acne, eczema and psoriasis.
Slowly incorporate physical activities into your daily routine. Swimming makes an excellent starting point. It’s a low-impact cardio activity with big benefits, reducing the risk of death by half compared to inactive individuals. Swimming also helps improve blood flow, providing oxygen and nutrients to skin cells and creating a post-workout glow.
5. Get Proper Sleep
Take a moment to assess your sleeping habits. Do you experience sleep deprivation? A lack of rest impacts a person’s overall wellness, including physical appearance. Adults should get seven hours of sleep to reap the health benefits.
Try to keep a regular sleep schedule to improve your sleeping patterns. Wake up and go to bed at the exact times daily to ensure uninterrupted rest. Avoid using your phone before bedtime to steer clear of distractions.
6. Avoid Smoking
You’ve probably heard it countless times — smoking is bad for your health. One of its many harmful health effects is skin ageing. Regular smoking impairs collagen formation, which is crucial for skin plumpness. Aside from that, it narrows blood vessels, reducing the amount of nutrients that reach your skin. It can trigger common issues, such as acne, eczema and psoriasis.
It’s never too late to quit smoking. Consider setting up a reward system every time you don’t smoke or talk with a doctor.
How Long Does It Take to See Improvement in Skin?
Each skin condition is different, so it’s challenging to assess when you can expect to see results. However, changes don’t happen overnight. Even medical procedures such as lasers take several months for the full effects to materialise.
Remember that consistency is critical to achieving the best results. If you want to see differences sooner, consider visiting your dermatologist for a personalised treatment plan.
Achieve Glowing Skin The Healthy Way
Applying skin care products is only one of the many ways to maintain healthy-looking skin. When you nourish your skin from the inside out, commit to sun protection, and avoid unhealthy habits like sleeping late and smoking, you can achieve your skin goals in no time.
