Skin problems plague nearly every age group, with acne afflicting teens, sun damage impacting those of middle age, and then eventually fine lines, wrinkles and age spots becoming problems for older individuals. So what’s the secret to getting perfect skin at any age in order to glow and look radiant and healthy? Here’s a list of six things that can help you attain the best skin possible.
1. Red Light Therapy
Red light therapy for face texture and color problems is an emerging, highly-promising natural treatment that has a wide range of benefits. Red light wavelengths penetrate deep into the skin’s surface, activating the mitochondria in the cells to produce more energy, called ATP. This protein is responsible for all cell functions and increasing it improves the body’s ability to repair tissue.
The benefits of RLT include reducing fine lines, wrinkles and all signs of aging; increasing collagen, which helps keep the skin strong and hydrated; improving skin texture and complexion; healing acne conditions; improving sun exposure damage; reducing scarring; improving wound healing; and more.
You can try RLT at gyms, spas and tanning salons, and there are even affordable devices that you can purchase for at-home use. Just make sure to buy from a reputable company so that you don’t end up with a faulty device which could put you at risk of getting burned.
2. Sunscreen
Using a minimum of SPF 30 sunscreen daily has been shown to reduce all signs of aging as well as reducing your risk of skin cancer. UV radiation destroys the collagen and elastin that keep your skin strong. Even indoors or in a car, your skin is vulnerable to sun damage. And when the sky is cloudy, the sun’s rays still don’t have a problem reaching your skin. Starting this habit young will have an even greater effect by preventing decades of cumulative damage.
3. High-Quality Moisturizer
Even if you have oily or combination skin, moisturizer will help your skin balance its sebum production, reducing oil buildup. Using products that also contain a retinoid, vitamin C, hydroxy acids or other active ingredients can make the benefit of a daily moisturizer go even further by improving skin quality and reducing fine lines, wrinkles, acne and more.
4. Exfoliation
Exfoliating using a gentle physical or chemical exfoliant two to three times a week is a great way to get rid of dead skin cells, unclog pores, prevent acne, even skin texture, and increase blood circulation. Doing this will also help other products absorb into your skin more effectively.
Make sure not to scrub your skin with a harsh product that has large beads, especially ones made from plastic. And overall don’t be rough when cleansing your face. Scrubbing harshly can irritate the skin, worsening conditions like acne, and stretching any wrinkles you may have.
5. Hydration
Drinking enough water and avoiding too many dehydrating ingredients like sodium or sugar is key to laying a healthy foundation for youthful, radiant skin. Hydration will improve skin elasticity, moisture and healthy pH levels. It will also help to prevent acne, reduce wrinkles and sagging skin.
6. Good Nutrition
What you eat has a direct impact on the health of your entire body, including your skin. Having a poor diet will take a toll on your skin, increasing the likelihood of breakouts, inflammation and wrinkles.
Make sure to avoid processed food, and incorporate enough fiber, protein and healthy fats into your diet. Also, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, selenium and zinc are all critical to skin health and will protect your cells from the damage of UV rays.
Other things like getting enough sleep, decreasing stress and exercising will also make a significant difference in improving your skin’s health.
Taking good care of your skin isn’t rocket science, and there are several methods that will make improving your skin health easier. Overall, a balanced, healthy lifestyle will make the greatest difference.
