Endless Health Fitness
16 Tips to get floorless skin
Want to have better skin and stay looking young? Even if you don't have a lot of time to spend on a skin care routine you can still improve your looks with the basics. Good skincare is important for delaying ageing signs and preventing future skin problems. Make positive changes today by reading the tips below!
1. Protect your skin from the sun
Protecting yourself from the sun is the most powerful way to prevent signs of skin ageing such as wrinkles and age spots not to mention cancer. Excessive sun exposure can break down collagen and elastin in your skin causing it to become wrinkled and less elastic. This can reduce aesthetic appearance but the greater risk is that the UV exposure could damage your skin's genetic material which could lead to cancers such as melanoma. Steps to protect yourself include:
  • Ware sunscreen: A broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should do the trick although consider a higher SPF if you live in a hot area.
  • Cover up with clothing: Consider covering your arms and legs as you walk around and maybe ware a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Go to the shade: The amount of UV is greatly reduced in shaded spots so consider sitting in the shade during the sunniest times of the day between 10am and 4pm.
Some say sunscreen is the closest thing to the fountain of youth we have as regular use really can slow down skin ageing!
2. Don't smoke
Similar to excessive sun exposure, smoking can damage collagen and elastin which give skin it's strength and elasticity. In addition, it smoking can narrow the blood-vessels that supply your skin with oxygen and nutrients leading it to appear paler and inhibiting healing. To make matters worse the repeated facial expressions you make when you smoke, such as pursing your lips when inhaling, can contribute to fine lines and wrinkles. It will likely be a challenge but if you smoke the best thing you can do for your skin is to quit. Ask your doctor for advice on how to deal with craving to help you quit and live healthier.
3. Limit hot water exposure
Everyone likes a hot bath or shower but the exposure to hot water can leach important oils out of your skin causing it to become dryer. To avoid this it is best to take cool showers or baths and for a shorter duration to avoid the depletion of your skin's natural oils. Shower water should be no hotter than 40°C or 104°F and it may also help to avoid strong soaps.
4. Eat healthily including fish
A varied and balanced diet with your five a day of fruit and vegetables as well as lean meat is best for providing the antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals your skin needs to look it's best. In addition to this, research has suggested that fish oils in your diet can lead to improved skin appearance. Therefore, try eating fish a couple of times a week or take a fish oil supplement. In addition to this drinking enough water will keep your skin hydrated which will help it look plump, youthful, and radiant.
5. Don't stress!
Stress will cause your glands to produce more oil and hormones which can lead to acne breakouts for thoes that are prone to them. Furthermore, stress can cause conditions such as eczema to flare up. To promote healthy skin it is important to take steps to manage your stress. This can be done by getting enough sleep, eating healthily, exercising, and setting reasonable expectations of yourself. Please try not to fall into the trap of setting unachievable goals as this will just cause you to procrastinate leading to stress which worsens your health.
6. Check for skin cancer
Self Examining can be a very scary and yet important activity especially if you have past experience with skin cancer. If you find an unusual spot or one that bleeds or itches then consider consulting a dermatologist. The quicker a problem can be diagnosed the easier it will be to treat.
7. Don't scrub!
Roughly scrubbing your skin when washing or drying can cause irritation and microscopic tares. This can allow bacteria to get in and worsen skin problems such as acne. Try being gentle when washing your face.
8. Wash your face
Cleaning gently allows your skin to look it's best. Washing your face removes pollution and grime that builds up throughout the day. It is best to wash your face after waking and after sweating significantly. Apply luke warm water and a cleanser by using your fingertips to make a circular motions over your face. Once clean, rinse off all residue and dab your face dry with a clean towel.
9. Leave pimples alone
A pimple is trapped oil, sebum, and bacteria within your skin. Pimples form when the hair follicles, or pores, become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Bacteria can then multiply in these clogged pores, leading to inflammation and the formation of a pimple. They are part of the healing process after your skin experiences an excess of oil production or encounters irritants that block the pores. Therefore it is recommended to let them go through their natural course and not pop them as doing so could lead to permanent scaring.
10. Use moisturiser
Using moisturiser can keep dry skin hydrated and control the production of sebum which is the oily substance that protects and hydrates the skin's surface. As moisturising can reduce the production of sebum it, counter-intuitively, can be used to reduce the presents of oily skin but stay away from oil based products if you have oily skin. The type of moisturiser that is best for someone will vary so seek advice for your specific skin type.
11. Exfoliate
Skin exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells and grime from the surface of the skin. It is beneficial because it helps to unclog pores, helping to prevent acne breakouts, and promotes cell turnover which leads to a brighter and more even complexion. Additionally, exfoliation can enhance the absorption of skincare products, making them more effective. For most people, exfoliating 2-3 times a week is sufficient, but this can vary based on skin type and the strength of the exfoliator. Those with sensitive skin may need to exfoliate less frequently, while those with oily or acne-prone skin might benefit from more regular exfoliation. It's important to listen to your skin and adjust the frequency over time to avoid over-exfoliating, which can cause irritation and damage.
12. Get enough sleep
Sleep is when the body rejuvenates and repairs itself and therefore it's important to get enough of if. Try to get your eight hours to help maintain your skin and give you a refreshed complexion and reduced under-eye circles. Enough sleep can also help manage stress and improve your mental health which will further benefit your skin.
13. Limit your sugar consumption
Sugar can damage your skin through a process called glycation which occurs when sugar molecules bind to proteins, such as collagen and elastin. This can damage these proteins, leading to a loss of skin elasticity and firmness, which accelerates the ageing process and results in wrinkles and sagging skin. Furthermore, high sugar intake can lead to increased insulin levels, which may trigger inflammation and exacerbate skin conditions like acne and eczema. Therefore, it is recommended to consume no more than 30g of free sugars per day.
14. Find the right cleanser
A cleanser is a product used to remove makeup, dirt and impurities from the skin and finding the right cleanser for your skin will help promote a healthy complexion, as it ensures that your skin is properly cleansed without being stripped of essential oils. For oily skin, a foaming or gel-based cleanser can be particularly effective as these formulations help to remove excess oil and unclog pores, reducing the likelihood of acne breakouts. You may wish to look for ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide as these kill acne causing bacteria. On the other hand, dry skin benefits from a cream or lotion-based cleanser that is hydrating and gentle, often containing soothing ingredients such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid to maintain moisture balance. For those struggling with acne, a cleanser containing active ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil can help to clear pores and reduce inflammation.
15. Stay consistent
You will have your skin for your entire life so you should stay consistent in your care for it. Consider using a schedule for the products you use and building washing your face into your morning routine. These are great habits to create and they will help you keep looking your best.
16. See a dermatologist
Anyone who is concerned about a spot on their skin or who is uncertain of the appropriate skin care for them should consult a dermatologist for more advice.