Skincare Tips for Healthy Clear Skin

Copyright 2007 - HealthySkinCareTreatments.com

The skin is the largest organ in our body. It acts as a barrier against pathogens and protects our muscles and internal organs. It gives us the ability to feel, insulates the body and synthesizes certain vitamins such as vitamins B and D. With all the benefits offered by our skin, we need to take good care of it. Not only can healthy skincare help our skin maintain its vital functions, it can also improve our overall appearance.

First of all, what causes bad skin?

The primary cause of bad skin (skin that is dull, blemished or generally unhealthy in appearance) is the overproduction of sebum by sebaceous glands in the body and the accumulation of dead skin cells due to slow cell turnover. The consequence of abandoning healthy skin care practices is the recurrence of clogged pores, whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and acne.

Some secondary causes of skin problems include:

• Hormones – sebaceous glands can have inflammations due to hormonal changes in the body. Oftentimes this occurs during puberty and can be avoided by maintaining a healthy skincare regimen.

• Free radicals – cause damage to lipids and functioning of cell membranes which slows down skin cell turnover. Antioxidants are known to fight against free radicals and therefore help prevent skin damage and premature aging.
  

• Sun damage – causes a number of skin problems ranging from sunburns to more serious conditions like skin cancer. UV rays impair the flexibility of our skin by destroying elastic tissue, thus causing fine lines and wrinkles that make us look older. UV rays can also discolor the skin and cause freckles or sun spots to develop. You can protect your skin by applying sunscreen (SPF 15+), moisturizers and anti-aging skincare products.

What can I do to prevent or heal damaged skin?

Getting yourself into a healthy skincare routine is a must if you want glowing clear skin. Here are 4 simple steps:

1. Cleanse at least once or twice a day to clear skin from dirt and excess oils produced overnight or at the end of the day. Cleansing keeps bacteria from entering ruptures in the skin and worsening existing skin conditions. Use a gentle cleanser to prevent irritation.
2. Tone after cleansing. Toning rids the skin of remaining dirt and tightens pores, which is great before applying moisturizer or make-up. Dab toning solution onto a piece of cotton and lightly wipe over skin.
3. Moisturize regularly (preferably after cleansing and toning) as part of your anti aging skin care plan. Moisturizers lock water in your skin, keeping skin hydrated. They act as antiaging skincare agents that improve elastin in the skin and therefore prevent wrinkles and sagging skin.
4. Exfoliate once a week to clear skin from dead skin cells and promote healthy skin turnover. Exfoliating can prevent skin discoloration caused by dead skin cell accumulation and clogged pores. Use a facial scrub and gently apply on skin with a circular motion.

In addition to using topical skin treatments, here are some natural anti aging skin care solutions:

• Eat healthy. It’s true: you are what you eat. Achieve clear skin by eating healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables. These can give your skin necessary nutrients that keep it radiant and functioning properly. They are also rich in antioxidants, which fight against free radicals.

• Drink lots of water. Probably one of the most effective home remedies, water effectively hydrates the skin and flushes toxins from the body, thus giving you beautiful, clear skin.

Having healthy skin is not difficult, but it does require some positive daily skincare habits and a healthy lifestyle. With this powerful combination, you’ll have beautiful clear skin before you know it.