Healthy skin is important for overall health. The skin is the body's largest organ and the first line of defense against infections and disease. By taking care of your skin, you can reduce the risk of suffering serious illness as well as minor irritations. Your skin also protects you from foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses. While many people want to ensure that their skin looks great from a beauty standpoint, it's important to understand the factor skin plays in health. Due to the important role skin plays in health, it is imperative to prevent it from becoming damaged and help it heal when issues arise.
Sun Safety and Skin Care Tips
When considering skin health, it is imperative to think about the damaging consequences of prolonged sun exposure. Not only can excessive sun cause premature aging, but also it significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Sun safety is about preventing skin cancer later in life. Studies show that children who have endured multiple sunburns are at an increased risk of developing skin cancer as adults. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays is the primary cause of skin cancer. By limiting or reducing exposure to UV rays, you lower the risk of skin cancer. Keeping children safe from sunburn and limiting adult exposure to UV rays are two of the most important steps one may take in the prevention of skin cancer.
Following the UV index and avoiding the sun during its strongest time of day is essential. The sun is strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. It is imperative to use caution when outside during these hours. Wear sunscreen protection and use clothing and hats to shield yourself from harmful rays. Check the sunscreen's recommended guidelines and reapply the product as directed.
Treating Blemishes
Blemishes are often superficial signs of underlying irritation and inflammation in the skin's layers but rarely are indicative of serious illness. Still, blemishes are unsightly, and everyone wants flawless skin with a glowing, clear complexion. The greatest threat to a healthy complexion is dehydration and an inadequate diet. Drugs, alcohol, and stress can trigger breakouts, along with hormone changes. One of the reasons teens are associated with acne is due to the hormone changes their bodies are going through. Those dealing with chronic breakouts or acne should schedule an appointment with their health care provider or dermatologist. There are prescription medications that can lessen the severity of breakouts and help prevent them. Preventing breakouts is important, as those who suffer from chronic acne are at risk of scarring. Acne scars can be detrimental to a person's sense of well-being and esteem.
There are treatments available to help those who've developed acne scars over the years. Many over-the-counter treatments exist, but some of these may irritate the skin and cause blemishes to become worse. Seeking medical advice is the best way to ensure you are doing everything to keep your skin look its best. Treating acne at its source is the best way to keep skin healthy and blemish-free.
Preventing and Eliminating Stress
Stress is extremely damaging to the beauty and heath of skin. Stress weakens the immune system and makes the body susceptible to viruses, bacteria, and other illnesses. Stress can also increase the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Reducing stress is one of the best health remedies available for the body as well as the complexion. Learning how to relax and reduce stress helps ensure that you not only look your best but feel great as well.