Having totally clear and flawless skin is a myth propagated by fashion magazines and companies that manufacture and sell beauty products. However aspiring to have healthy skin is a realistic goal. You should learn to take care of your body inside and out, and only then will you be able to achieve a radiant and clear complexion. You also need to learn which beauty products suit your skin and which medicated treatments like Cerave vs Cetaphil work best for your skin conditions. You should also avoid using cheap treatments or quick fixes that will damage your skin in the long run.
Here are some things you can do to nourish and maintain the health of your skin.
Chapter Overview
Get Regular Exercise
Physical activity is one of the best ways to guarantee a healthy and radiant complexion. When you get regular exercise, the blood flow to your skin improves because of increased circulation and that results in a natural glow. Regular exercise also helps your lymphatic system flush any toxins out of the body. However, if your skin is prone to acne, make sure you clean it properly after each time you exercise, as sweat and dead skin cells can clog your pores.
Eat Clean and Watch Your Diet
The food you consume has a direct effect on your skin. A diet can influence your skin in both positive and negative ways. A high glycaemic diet for instance, increases oil production in your body, which in turn could result in breakouts. Similarly food that is rich in omega–3 fatty acids like kale, soy, and fish, acts to reduce inflammation and clears pimples.
However, everyone’s skin can get triggered by different dietary factors. You should keep track of what you are putting inside your body so you can figure out your own personal triggers. If you feel a certain food triggers a flare up or breakout, you should try to avoid it.
Avoid Over-Washing Your Face
While keeping your skin clean is important, it is important not to over wash your skin. Many strong facial cleansers can strip your skin of natural oils thereby compromising the moisture barrier. This can cause excessive dryness on your skin and also allows easy access for bacteria to spread. Instead you should use hydrating cream cleansers or low foam gentle gel cleansers. You should also abstain from over exfoliation as that can make acne worse. You should not exfoliate more than twice a week.
Drink Lots of Water
Keeping your skin hydrated helps to maintain the youthful suppleness of your skin. Not only does it flush out toxins, it also prevents drying and premature aging. Make sure you drink at least 8 glasses of water every day, more if you are physically more active or live in a hot environment. Moisturizers and other products won’t help your skin if you’re not drinking enough water.
Monitor Any Hormonal Imbalances
For women, acne can be triggered by fluctuation of certain hormones. Pimples usually develop close to the beginning of your menstrual cycle and tend to clear up when it’s over. However other hormonal changes due to puberty, menopause or pregnancy can also aggravate breakouts. Consult your doctor for any unusual changes in your skin during your cycle.