SUPPLIES
- Exfoliating sponge or soap
- Moisturizer made for your skin type
- Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Hand-held mirror for performing self-exams
Overview
Proper skin care is crucial when you are young to avoid problems such as wrinkles and skin cancer later in life. Maintaining healthy skin should be a priority for everyone of every age, and skin care should not start only after the first wrinkles appear. Adding a few steps into your daily routine will help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun, prevent the breakdown of collagen, help ward off wrinkles and age spots, and reduce acne and potential acne scars. If you want to know how to maintain healthy skin, follow the tips below.
How to Maintain Healthy Skin
Step 1
Begin each day by gently exfoliating your skin while in the shower. Exfoliation removes any dead skin cells that have accumulated, enabling moisturizers to penetrate the skin more deeply. Removing dead skin cells will also make your skin appear more vibrant and healthy. You can exfoliate with a brush or sponge specifically designed for use on the skin, or by using any bath soap made for exfoliation.
Step 2
Moisturize your skin as soon as you get out of the shower. The steam of the shower opens your pores, allowing moisturizing creams and lotions to fully absorb. If you have sensitive skin, stick to moisturizers that are hypoallergenic and free of perfumes.
Step 3
Apply sunscreen to your face if your moisturizer does not contain an SPF of 30 or higher. Protecting your skin from the sun is essential to prevent fine lines, wrinkles, skin cancer and age spots. Sunscreen also works to protect the collagen in your skin from becoming damaged, which can lead to sagging skin and deep wrinkles.
Step 4
Wear only cosmetics suitable for your skin type to prevent clogged pores and pimples. If you are prone to acne, skip makeup as often as possible. Acne may cause permanent dimpling and scarring in some people.
Step 5
Remove your makeup every night before you go bed, or even earlier if possible. Leaving makeup on the skin overnight is not healthy for the skin and can result in clogged pores, dryness and acne breakouts. Using soap and water to remove makeup is generally fine, provided the soap does not dry out your skin.
Step 6
Add a bit of moisturizer to your clean face again before heading to bed. Many overnight products are available that will add moisture to your skin without causing blocked pores.
Step 7
Perform a skin self-exam every month. If you notice any suspicious marks or moles, make a note of them for your doctor and take a photo of them if possible. Pay special attention to any moles or spots that change in size, bleed, have irregular borders, or are greater than the size of a pencil eraser.
Step 8
Visit your dermatologist for regular skin checkups. This is especially important if you have a family or personal history of skin cancer. Share any concerns about suspicious moles or other spots you discovered during your monthly self-exams.
Step 9
Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are an important part of any diet, and the nutrients contained in these foods promote good skin health. If you are on a restricted diet, consider taking a vitamin supplement to help maintain healthy skin.
TIPS AND WARNINGS
- TIP : Drinking plenty of water each day is one of the best things you can do for your skin's health.
