Did you know that your skin is the largest organ of your body? It also plays a vital role in detecting hot or cold, regulating your body temperature and protecting your muscles, bones and internal organs from outside infection and disease.
The American Academy of Dermatology designates each November as Healthy Skin Month and reminds us to make sure to pay special attention to our skin. You may not realize it, but the health of your skin is often a reflection of your overall general heath.
So, what are the best ways to keep your skin healthy? Try these 4 tips:
- Drink your H2O: We all know that water helps improve the function of our vital organs by flushing out waste. In addition, it also helps to nourish the skin. Consistently drinking 8-10 glasses of water per day increases the elasticity of the skin, reduces the appearance of wrinkles and gives your complexion a healthy glow.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Don’t skip the sunscreen routine just because the weather has turned cooler. Dermatologists recommend daily use of sunscreen, regardless of the season, with an SPF of 30 or higher. Always avoid tanning beds and remember to wear a hat or hood when outside to keep tender skin protected.
- Moisturize: The dry air of fall and winter weather often leads to dry skin. And because skin constantly sheds cells, keeping skin moisturized helps skin repair itself. Use a daily skin cream or lotion after bathing or showers to keep your skin properly moisturized so that it can best continue as the body’s protective barrier.
- Get annual skin checks: Because skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S., it’s important to have your skin screened regularly. As part of a complete early detection strategy, the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that you see a dermatologist once a year, or more often if you are at a higher risk of skin cancer, for a full-body, professional skin exam.
Because skin plays such an important role in protecting your body, you should try to keep it as healthy as you possibly can. Incorporating these healthy skin tips will protect your skin now and help you avoid problems later.
