Top 9 tips for Healthy Skin
Tips for Healthy Skin
Your skin is an organ that is just as important as your heart
or lungs. It is a vital protective barrier between you and the elements. It can
even provide an early clue to a health problem that’s going on under the
surface. Follow these tips to keep your skin healthy.
1. Protect your skin from the sun and avoid prolonged
exposure. Sun exposure increases your risk of skin cancer, such as melanoma, by
causing mutations in your DNA. It also causes premature aging of the skin
(which results in wrinkles and thin skin), brown discolorations and uneven
texture. Seek shade under an umbrella or tree, and wear sunscreen, a hat and
sun-protective clothing.
2. Avoid tanning salons. They emit UV radiation, which
causes wrinkles, melanoma and other skin cancers.
3. Perform a monthly skin check. You are most likely the
first to notice a new growth that could be cancerous. Every month, examine your
skin from head to toe. For your back and other hard-to-see spots, use a
handheld and/or full-length mirror, or enlist the help of a partner. If you see
something unusual, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
4. Moisturize
your skin. During cold and dry weather, apply a thick moisturizing cream. When
the weather is warmer, switch to a lighter lotion.
5. Avoid
irritating chemicals and harsh soaps. Choose moisturizing, gentle cleansers,
especially if your skin is dry or sensitive. Use soap only where needed, such
as the underarms, and avoid areas that tend to dry out easily, such as the arms
and legs.
6. Consider applying a retinoid cream to boost collagen
production. Retinoid creams can’t remove deep wrinkles, but can improve your
skin’s appearance. These creams typically contain retinol or prescription
tretinoin (generic name for Retin-A or Renova).
Sunscreen tips
7. Wear a daily
sunscreen. This is the single most important thing you can do to improve skin
health and appearance. Apply daily, especially on your face and neck—the areas
most susceptible to skin cancer. Be sure to apply to your ears, nose, exposed
scalp and the back of your hands. On the beach or at the golf course, sunny day
or gloomy, make sure to cover all exposed surfaces.
8. Reapply
sunscreen often. Most sunscreens wear off after three hours…even sooner if you
are in water or perspiring.
9. Choose a
broad spectrum sunscreen. Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to skin cancer
development. For sensitive skin or eyes, wear a zinc and titanium-based
sunscreen and avoid chemical sunscreens that can be more irritating.

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