Our lifestyle plays a critical role in our skin's health. While we may think that healthy skin comes from a good skincare routine, in clinic treatments or good genetics, the skin is an organ and there are many factors that can influence our skin and it's health. This skin blog looks at lifestyle tips that you can incorporate into your everyday routine to achieve good skin health, glowing from the inside out.
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DRINK 2-3 LITRES OF WATER PER DAY
Drinking enough water helps nutrients reach the skin through proper blood flow and circulation. With this circulation it ensures toxins are being properly filtered out by the lymphatic system. Adequate water intake also supports the skin with wound healing, cell function and skin cell regeneration. It is recommended to drink 2-3 litres of water per day.
SUNSCREEN EVERYDAY
Sunscreen prevents against skin cell damage from UV radiation that can cause skin cancer, unwanted pigmentation, premature ageing and skin redness. Sunscreen is recommended to be applied everyday regardless of the weather and reapplied throughout the day where necessary.
See Related - Sunscreen - Why it's SO Important!
QUIT SMOKING
Smoking impairs wound healing, constricts blood flow reducing oxygen and nutrients to the skin, and damages collagen fibres contributing to premature ageing. By quitting smoking you may not repair the damage done but you will reduce any further damage and see an improvement, not only in overall health, but skin health too.
LIMIT ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
Alcohol consumption causes inflammation in the body. This inflammation can amplify symptoms of chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea. Inflammation within the body can also trigger skin dryness and itching as inflamed skin loses the ability to retain moisture. Alcohol is a diuretic which means it causes your body to remove fluid from the blood. This can result in dehydration. Lack of water within the body can influence the skin ability to maintain good skin health. It is recommended to limit alcohol consumption.
EAT FOODS FOR SKIN HEALTH
Incorporating foods high in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, essential fatty acids and minerals such as zinc will help to support good skin health. This can be achieved through diet or supplements. It is always recommended to consult a qualified nutritionist for advice on your specific diet requirements.
See Related - Foods for Skin Health
IMPLEMENT A STRUCTURED SKINCARE ROUTINE
Implementing a structured and consistent skincare routine will support the skin and it's natural function, enhance results from in clinic treatments, prevent certain skin conditions and concerns, save you money and make you feel good about yourself.
See Related - The Importance of Skincare
USE GOOD QUALITY MAKEUP
While we wouldn't willingly go about our day to day activities with a mask of chemicals on our face, we do this unknowingly when we use certain makeup brands. Some makeup brands use harsh ingredients and chemicals in their products that can be harmful to the skin. It is recommended to use a good quality makeup to ensure skin health is being maintained even when wearing makeup all day long.
WASH MAKEUP BRUSHES REGULARLY
Makeup brushes can store old makeup and unwanted bacteria. Makeup brushes should be cleaned with warm water and a suitable shampoo once every 1-2 weeks. A brush cleaning can be used in between makeup applications to kill bacteria. Brush cleaner usually contain alcohol that kills bacteria so please ensure it has fully evaporated from brushes before use.
THOROUGHLY REMOVE MAKEUP BEFORE BED
Did you know not removing your makeup before bed can age the skin 7 times faster. While we sleep the skin renews and if makeup is left on the skin this prevents the skin from doing this. Leaving makeup on for prolonged periods can also contribute to clogged pores and unwanted breakouts. It is recommended to thoroughly remove makeup before bed using a suitable makeup remover for your skin type.
REDUCE STRESS
When we are stressed the nervous system releases stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline into the body. Cortisol causes increased oil production in the skin which can result in clogged pores and unwanted breakouts. Stress also triggers an inflammatory response from the body that can amplify symptoms of chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea. Stress can also trigger rashes, hives and unwanted hair loss. It is recommended to be mindful of stress and it's effect on skin health. Find what works best for you in reducing stress in your life.
MINIMUM OF 8-10 HOURS OF QUALITY SLEEP
While we sleep the body increases blood flow bringing oxygen and nutrients to the skin. It expels toxins and eliminates dead skin cells. It rebuilds collagen that supports the skin and repairs damage including UV damage and wound healing. It is recommended for a male to get at least 8 hours of quality sleep each night, and 8-10 for a female.
CHANGE PILLOW CASE ONCE A WEEK
As we sleep we shed dead skin cells. This is collected by our pillow cases as well as any dirt, debris and excess oil. This creates a great breeding ground for bacteria to grow and live. Changing your pillow cases, and pillows, on the regular will help prevent bacteria being in contact with the skin, creating unwanted breakouts. If your someone with a really oily skin type, it is recommended to change your pillowcases even more frequent.
EXERCISE
Exercise increases circulation and with increased circulation brings more oxygen and nutrients to the skin. As we sweat this helps to purge the body of toxins as well. It is recommended to avoid exercising with makeup on. As we exercise, our pores open to release sweat and this can allow makeup to be absorbed into the skin resulting in clogged pores and unwanted breakouts. To avoid this, ensure the skin is clean and free of makeup before a workout and ensure we are thoroughly cleaning the skin post a workout too.
COOLER SHOWERS
Hot showers draw moisture from the skin creating dryness. This is especially important for dry skin types or people who suffer from chronic skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea. Hot showers also create a sudden increase of blood flow to capillaries and when there is a weakening in the vascular wall, this can cause those capillaries to break, leaving broken capillaries stagnant and visible on the skins surface. Lukewarm to cooler showers are recommended all year round.
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