Your skin is the body’s largest organ. It serves as a barrier against bacteria and other dangers that may hurt our body and helps keep our body at the ideal temperature. Our skin is our soft armor, and we need to protect and nourish our skin to ensure that it stays healthy.
Skin health, however, can be affected by many factors. What we eat and drink impacts the health of our skin. While water hydrates our body and our skin, alcohol and caffeine may deplete moisture and cause our skin to look unhealthy. Some fruits and vegetables contain skin-loving ingredients that may help keep skin looking radiant…like Vitamin C-rich fruits which may help boost collagen. And some studies show that dark chocolate also may have a skin protecting benefit.
What we use on our skin also can affect skin health, though. Alcohol-based ingredients may dry out sensitive skin and leave behind a flaky mess. Some fragrances also may irritate those with sensitive skin. However, hydrating ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and argan oil will leave skin feeling smooth and silky.
For those of you who have ever suffered from a poor night’s sleep, you know how lack of rest can wreak havoc on your skin. Delicate under eye skin may become discolored or puffy. Skin also can look—well—tired. When we sleep, our body regenerates. This is especially important for our skin, which not only protects our body but also serves as part of our outward appearance to the world.
While the look of our skin makes up part of our physical appearance, the health of our skin also impacts our overall wellness. If you’re still wondering why you need to care about your skin’s health, here are seven reasons that will make you want to be more comfortable in your own skin!
1. First impressions are everything.
When meeting someone for the first time, most of us notice the individual’s face. If your skin looks worn out and drawn…YOU look worn out and drawn. And no one wants to shake someone’s hand if it feels like sandpaper. Dried out skin feels rough and looks flaky…or even discolored—not signs of healthy skin!
2. Weaknesses in our skin may cause other issues.
If your skin is full of cuts from being dried out from the cold or wind and your hands are bleeding and chapped, this could potentially open the door for bacteria or other dangers to make their way into the body. Keep skin healthy by ensuring that dried skin doesn’t become so irritated that it breaks open.
3. Unhealthy skin may look older.
If your skin is dry or drawn from lack of sleep, you may appear older. Skin damage from the sun, lack of sleep or even dry skin is aging. Battle premature aging by using sunscreen daily (SPF 30) and keep skin moisturized after showering or when skin is exposed to the elements.
4. Not protecting the skin from sun may lead to sun damage…or skin cancer.
Sun protection is a must for skin health. And if you’re not using an SPF, you are putting your skin at risk. Not only can the sun’s rays lead to discoloration like hyperpigmentation, but the UVA and UVB rays also may cause skin cancer. Melanoma is serious…and can be fatal. Protect your skin with SPF!
5. Nurturing skin also may lead to healthier habits.
If you’re choosing nutrient-rich foods to help boost skin health, those good choices also will likely impact other aspects of your physical health as well. Eating a diet rich in fruits and veggies is beneficial for the entire body. And skipping caffeinated beverages in favor of water helps the body stay hydrated…while also benefiting the skin!
6. Healthy skin is radiant!
Taking care of your skin may require a little more diligence—and maybe some personalized skin products—but the result may leave you glowing. When our skin is healthy, it shows…and it glows! Even in the coldest of winters, using the right cleansers and moisturizers helps keep the skin healthy. If you want a full-on glow, you can choose brightening toners or even illuminating cosmetics to showcase your natural radiance.
7. Great skin boosts confidence.
Like a good hair day, having great skin gives you confidence. When your skin is healthy, you feel good…and you look good!
Our skin is our body’s barrier against many dangers. Our skin protects us from bacteria, keeps us cool and warm (as needed) and serves as our body’s first line of defense. Our skin’s health, though, isn’t a given. Like the rest of our body, our skin requires care and healthy habits. What we feed our body can benefit or harm our skin. And our skincare routine—including moisturizers, SPF and other beneficial products—can help keep our skin looking great and staying healthy. Protect your skin and focus on healthy habits to ensure that your soft armor stays strong!