Skin is your body’s largest organ. It serves as a protective barrier between your insides and the rest of the world, helps regulate body temperature and acts as a filter. Skin exists in a constant state of growth, with old cells dying as new cells are forming. It’s affected by every aspect of your life, from what you eat to where you live. Healthy skin is better able to fight signs of aging, heals much faster and staves off potential disease better than unhealthy skin.

Proper skin care is not only about looking good, it’s about staying healthy. Poor skin care habits can lead to rashes, sores, acne and wrinkles. Unhealthy skin is more susceptible to disease, infection and is more likely to scar after an injury. Proper care is particularly important for people who experience skin issues, such as psoriasis, or have skin allergies.

Good skin care is vital if you’re concerned about your physical appearance. Unhealthy skin tends to appear sallow and dull, whereas healthy skin appears full and vibrant. Wrinkles develop with more ease and sink deeper if your skin is dehydrated and unhealthy, and it can result in uneven patches that have a mottled color. When skin is unhealthy it loses elasticity, which can make it sag and appear thin. Skin is constantly growing and changing, so you have to remain vigilant caring for it.

Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and maintain a balanced diet to provide the vitamins and minerals your skin needs. Stick with fresh fruits and vegetables,  and lean protein for the best results. Always make sure to use sunblock if you’re going to spend time outside.  Some of the most harmful sun exposure is on overcast days. Skin can also reveal greater healthcare problems so be sure to monitor any new developments and follow up with your doctor or dermatologist.

Knowing your skin type will help you to select the proper products to find the correct routine. Makeup removers such as coconut oil, micellar cleansing water, or Ponds cold cream are all great products to be used before cleaning the skin.  A gentle cleanser like a glycolic acid for morning or night is an effective way to remove all the excessive dirt and oil build-up.  An exfoliator is a must have in your beauty supplies because it gets rid of all the dead skin cells and brightens your skin. A toner balances the skin’s PH and helps products to penetrate the skin, as well as to tighten up the pores and you will have a less oily t-zone. A moisturizer should always be used to lock down moisture and hydrate the skin. Apply a good quality moisturizer to your skin every night and every morning.  Also before leaving the house, always apply a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to prevent sun spots and wrinkles.

The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. Marque Medical is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.