6 Tips for Better Skin

Beauty, Home & Family
on January 4, 2012

Healthy skin is a huge beauty boost. It also reflects overall good health. Check out these six tips for better skin and start looking younger and healthier now.

Use sunscreen. Use daily moisturizers with sunscreen, or products dedicated to blocking the sun. Reapply throughout the day, as the effectiveness is lost over time and exposure to water. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends everyone use a water resistant sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 30 or greater.

Stop smoking. Smoking makes skin look older and contributes to wrinkles, according to Mayo Clinic research. Smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, which decreases blood flow. This depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients that are important to skin health. Smoking also damages collagen and elastin — the fibers that give your skin its strength and elasticity.

Eat healthy foods. Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables are key to maintaining healthy skin and fighting free radicals, which bring on signs of aging. Also, orange fruits and veggies contain beta carotene, which is great for skin appearance and resistance to damage.

Drink water. Consuming six to eight glasses of water a day will help maintain optimum hydration, which can make your skin appear plumper and smoother. Water also helps your circulatory system work properly, sending nutrients and taking away damaged cells and waste.

Get your rest. It’s not called beauty rest for nothing. Most experts recommend at least seven hours of sleep a night. If you have trouble with getting enough sleep, check with your doctor. He or she can help you get the rest you need inside and out.

Consume good fats. All diets should include a small amount of fat. The type of fat you consume is very important to your skin and overall health. Omega-3 fatty acids like those found in fatty fish, olive oil and almonds fight dryness and help skin stay hydrated and healthy.

This article was originally published as 6 Tips for Better Skin on DailyParent.com.