You may not realize it, but you’re actually the proverbial knight in shining armor. Yes, it’s true. You’re currently wrapped in something that protects you from both dangerous microbes and the harsh environment around you. This mysterious shield is part of how you are able to manage your core temperature. Furthermore, it connects you to the world by letting you know if something is rough or smooth, or if it’s hot or cold.
Of course, we’re talking about your skin here, the largest organ in the human body. For all that it does for you, taking good care of it is the very least you can do to thank it for all of its hard work. With that in mind, here are some useful tips on how to take proper care of your skin – and in turn, successfully avoid any serious skin-related problems that might crop up.
Don’t Forget About Sun Protection
If you are an always-on-the-go type of person and are often outdoors, then it’s important that you wear the right kind of clothing for the occasion to avoid the damaging effects of the sun’s rays. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats give pretty solid protection from the sun, and sunscreen is also a must for an outdoorsy person.
Of course, you might be wondering why you should bother with full-coverage clothing when you use sunscreen. Well, sunscreen can’t block out all of the UV rays of the sun on its own. If you really need to be out and about during the hottest part of the day, using an umbrella for protection isn’t as ridiculous as it sounds. Who is to say it isn’t a parasol if it does the job, right?
Care for Yourself From the Inside Out
You’ve probably heard the saying “you are what you eat” before, but it still holds true even today. This phrase has evolved from food influencing your state of mind to even directly influencing your health. If you look at bodybuilders and athletes in training, you can see why it makes sense, too. They’re literally fueling their performance to reach their fitness goals with food!
Take, for instance, collagen. Many people across the globe enjoy eating food that helps facilitate its production, and this protein has been shown to help keep your skin looking young and protect it from sagging. Although there are many foods that are said to improve your skin, nothing beats eating a healthy and balanced diet like the vegetarian or Mediterranean diet.
Different Skin Types, Different Care
There are five different skin types: normal, oily, dry, a combination of dry and oily, and sensitive. A normal skin type, for instance, has barely any visible pores. It’s not too dry nor too oily, and it’s not overly sensitive. On the other hand, dry skin has almost imperceptible pores, shows a few fine lines, and it’s not as elastic as other skin types.
If you think this is your skin type, then make sure not to spend too long in the shower, and reach for gentler bath products. Avoid scrubbing during bathing or when toweling off, as well, as it can further strip your skin. Oily skin, though, comes with more visible pores and is more likely to struggle with breakouts. Trying to tame your complexion can be tricky, but washing your face on a regular basis can help keep those breakouts at bay.
A combination skin type will have characteristics of both dry and oily skin. Some parts – such as the forehead, nose, and chin – could be oily, while the rest could be either dry or normal in appearance. Finally, sensitive skin is more prone to irritation and redness. If you have super sensitive skin, then it’s not a bad idea to speak to a dermatologist to get your triggers under control.
What About the Dos and Don’ts?
What else can be done to care for our skin? First and foremost, stay hydrated! Water is essential in regulating the cellular process of your skin, and more importantly, staying hydrated is just a good healthy habit in general. You could also avoid smoking, as there are many studies that have shown that smoking wreaks havoc on the skin and lead to decreased elasticity and density.
Sunscreen is a must when sun exposure is unavoidable, so try to choose one that is able to block both UVA and UVB rays. Prescription medications (such as topical retinoids) are another great option, but it’s important to note that they can cause irritation in certain people. Using a hyaluronic acid serum can also help improve skin texture and hydration, too, and doesn’t require a prescription to get your hands on it.
Care for Your Skin Armor
Our skin may not be as tough as plate armor, but it nonetheless serves a similar purpose. Identifying your skin type and making an effort to keep it healthy will do wonders for you in the long term, both in terms of aesthetics and overall health. It’s also recommended to go see a specialist at least every once in a while to make sure everything’s in order with your skin. With proper care, you’ll have that young and healthy skin you desire and deserve!