Five Habits that Support Great Skin
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Skin is unique. As our body’s largest organ, it has a big job. It functions as the first line of defense against the environment by protecting us against toxins, pollutants, weather, physical injury and more. No wonder our skin shows signs of wear without extra love and attention. It runs a marathon every day!
So how do we protect our skin? We nurture it from the outside in and from the inside out. Here are our top five habits that support great skin.
Habit 1: Wash your face twice every day
Throughout the day our face accumulates dirt, bacteria, pollutants, dead skin cells and excess oil. Not removing these impurities clogs the pathways the skin uses to release oils that form a protective barrier against the environment. It also allows bacteria to penetrate the skin and cause breakouts, dehydrated skin and early signs of aging. Washing your face helps rehydrate your skin and lets other products absorb and do their jobs.
Habit 2: Drink enough water
Roughly 60 percent of the human body is water, so it’s not surprising that water is vital to overall health. That includes skin health. Without water, skin loses its elasticity, making it appear dull and enhancing wrinkles. Water also clears pores and flushes toxins to promote blemish-free beauty.
Habit 3: Move your body
I’ll admit, this one may seem unconventional. However, as someone who’s dedicated to 30+ minute workouts five days a week, I can tell you that exercise is a key ingredient to healthy skin. The biggest benefit--increased blood flow that nourishes cells, promotes collagen production and removes toxins. One study also found that exercise can reverse the signs of aging. Whoa!
Habit 4: Wear SPF every day
But let’s take this a step further. Shield your skin from the sun as much as possible. UV rays cause premature aging, making the skin look leathery and discolored. They also break down collagen. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays and delicate skin from sagging, wrinkles and uneven skin tones caused by dark spots and sun damage.
Habit 5: Use a face mask every week
Let’s get real. This is the one thing that seems to have the most impact on my skin. It immediately reduces acne and it makes my skin bright and smooth. For those who have acne-prone skin, clay and charcoal masks work best to pull out toxins. Hydrating sheet masks are better for dry skin. It's my go-to quick skin boost!
This list is not exhaustive--nearly everything affects our skin. What are your secrets to healthy skin?
So how do we protect our skin? We nurture it from the outside in and from the inside out. Here are our top five habits that support great skin.
Habit 1: Wash your face twice every day
Throughout the day our face accumulates dirt, bacteria, pollutants, dead skin cells and excess oil. Not removing these impurities clogs the pathways the skin uses to release oils that form a protective barrier against the environment. It also allows bacteria to penetrate the skin and cause breakouts, dehydrated skin and early signs of aging. Washing your face helps rehydrate your skin and lets other products absorb and do their jobs.
Habit 2: Drink enough water
Roughly 60 percent of the human body is water, so it’s not surprising that water is vital to overall health. That includes skin health. Without water, skin loses its elasticity, making it appear dull and enhancing wrinkles. Water also clears pores and flushes toxins to promote blemish-free beauty.
Habit 3: Move your body
I’ll admit, this one may seem unconventional. However, as someone who’s dedicated to 30+ minute workouts five days a week, I can tell you that exercise is a key ingredient to healthy skin. The biggest benefit--increased blood flow that nourishes cells, promotes collagen production and removes toxins. One study also found that exercise can reverse the signs of aging. Whoa!
Habit 4: Wear SPF every day
But let’s take this a step further. Shield your skin from the sun as much as possible. UV rays cause premature aging, making the skin look leathery and discolored. They also break down collagen. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays and delicate skin from sagging, wrinkles and uneven skin tones caused by dark spots and sun damage.
Habit 5: Use a face mask every week
Let’s get real. This is the one thing that seems to have the most impact on my skin. It immediately reduces acne and it makes my skin bright and smooth. For those who have acne-prone skin, clay and charcoal masks work best to pull out toxins. Hydrating sheet masks are better for dry skin. It's my go-to quick skin boost!
This list is not exhaustive--nearly everything affects our skin. What are your secrets to healthy skin?