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5 Everyday Things That May Be Hurting Your Skin

Your skin is a living and breathing organ that just happens to be the largest organ in your body. There are a number of factors that are a risk for the health of your skin. Daily exposure to these items can cause aging, acne, uneven skin, and much more. You can learn to manage these things and have beautifully youthful skin that glows with health and vitality.

1. Sun exposure is incredibly damaging to your skin. Any color that your skin obtains, no matter how minor, is a sign of damage which in time will result in premature aging. In fact sun exposure is the number one cause of premature aging. Ultra violet light from the sun’s rays damages and breaks down the building blocks of your skin, collagen and elastin. As these two important proteins become damaged you will begin to notice changes in your skin such as lines, wrinkles, age spots, and rough skin. Protect your skin by wearing a sunscreen daily, even on those deceptive cloudy days.

2. Smoking or exposure to second hand smoke is detrimental to the health of your skin not to mention your overall health. Cigarette smoke contains more than 4000 different toxins which are absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Once there, they meddle with the structure of your skin causing it to age, thin, and become sallow. Smoking also depletes your skin of much needed moisture and nutrients making it more dry and susceptible to aging. Avoid smoking and second hand smoke as much as possible and consume plenty of rich fruits and vegetables to replace any lost nutrients.

3. Pollutants and toxins in the air can keep skin from functioning properly and interfere with the way your skin repairs itself. Exposure to pollution depletes your skin of important nutrients and can cause sensitivity, irritation, and premature aging. Use effective skin care products that contain antioxidants to protect your skin from environmental pollutants and use a good facial scrub to remove any debris from the surface of your skin.

4. A change in climate or season can affect the health and appearance of your skin as well. Your skin has the ability to absorb moisture from the air so those living in more humid climates tend to have more hydrated skin. Dryer air will actually zap moisture from your skin making it dry, flaky, and rough. Use skin care products that are appropriate for your skin needs as well as the climate and season you are in.

5. Your diet has a profound affect on your skin. You know the saying “you are what you eat.” Well, there is actually a grain of truth in these words. The more foods you eat that are healthy, the healthier your skin will look and act. A diet lacking in crucial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants will show in the appearance of your skin. It will look dull, lifeless, and unhealthy. Make sure you include plenty of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and beans in your diet to ensure you are loading your cells with the proper nutrition to function properly.

Your skin is your shield against the world around you and is exposed to damaging elements constantly. Pay attention to what your skin is going through and treat it with effective and appropriate skin care products. Take care of yourself both inside and out and your skin will respond by looking healthy and youthful.