How to Keep Skin Young and Healthy
If you are willing to take care of your skin properly, you will be rewarded with young and healthy looking skin. Even though your genetics and the aging process have a big say in how your skin will look, you still have control in slowing the aging process down by consistently taking good care of your skin. The following steps will help you keep your skin healthy and looking young. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Stay out of the sun. Overexposure from the sun's UVA and UVB rays can damage the collagen in your skin, accelerating the aging process. Using a good sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays will slow down the aging process and help prevent wrinkles, age spots and discoloration. However, in moderation, the sun does have great benefits, such as providing you with vitamin D, but limit exposure to only 15 minutes without sunscreen.
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Try to quit smoking. As you smoke, your skin loses the oxygen it needs and makes it susceptible to free radicals. Smoking also ages your skin quickly and will give you the appearance of looking older than you really are.
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Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep will cause your skin to look dull. If your body does not get enough sleep, it will become stressed, which will affect the appearance of your skin. Try to aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
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Wash and moisturize before bed. Going to bed with a dirty face will clog your pores, especially if you wear makeup during the day. If you don't want to suffer through acne unnecessarily, get into the habit of washing your face morning and night. Then follow up with a moisturizer to prevent dryness and to keep your skin hydrated and plump.
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Exfoliate in moderation. Exfoliating your skin too much can lead to irritation and loss of natural oils. Instead, try to exfoliate once or twice a week. If your skin is dry or sensitive, you may want to exfoliate a couple times a month.
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Watch what you eat. Nutrient-rich foods will benefit your skin's appearance. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Avoid too much sugar, salt and alcohol. Foods with omega-3, such as salmon and walnuts, are beneficial for healthy skin.
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Exercise away the stress. Exercising regularly will help your heart take care of your body's largest organ -- the skin. Exercise also increases serotonin levels, and when you're happy, your skin will glow.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't forget to drink plenty of water to keep your body -- and your skin -- hydrated.
Try not to touch your face too much; it can spread dirt and bacteria and lead to acne problems.
Avoid soda.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Goodshoot/Getty Images
