Most people know that they need to follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to have clear skin. But what are the specific habits that will help you achieve clear skin? Here are ten habits that will help you get clear skin and keep it looking good. Each of these habits will help improve your skin health in some way.
1. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is good for your overall health, including your skin. Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help to protect your skin from damage and keep it looking healthy. In particular, foods high in vitamin C and beta-carotene (a type of vitamin A) are suitable for your skin. Some great options include citrus fruits, leafy greens, tomatoes, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
2. Get Plenty of Sleep
Sleep is essential for your overall health, and that includes your skin. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more of the stress hormone cortisol. This can lead to inflammation and make your skin more likely to break out. So aim for seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Also, try to avoid working late nights or sleeping in late on the weekends, as this can disrupt your body’s natural sleep cycle.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Water is important for your overall health, and that includes your skin. When you’re dehydrated, your skin can become dry, dull, and more prone to wrinkles. So aim to drink eight glasses of water per day. You can also help to keep your skin hydrated by using a humidifier in your home, especially during the winter months when the air is dry.
4. Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Not only is alcohol bad for your overall health, but it can also wreak havoc on your skin. Alcohol dehydrates your body and makes your skin more dry and irritated. It can also make your skin more prone to breakouts. So if you want to improve your skin health, it’s best to limit your alcohol intake. Also, try to avoid drinking alcohol before bed, as this can disrupt your sleep and make your skin look tired.
5. Use the Best Makeup for Your Skin Type
If you wear makeup, it’s important to choose the right products for your skin type. The best makeup for acne-prone skin is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. Look for products that are labeled “oil-free” or “non-acnegenic.” You should also avoid using heavy foundation or concealer, as these can make your skin look cakey and accentuate any blemishes. Instead, opt for lighter coverage products such as tinted moisturizers or BB creams.
6. Don’t Smoke
Smoking is bad for your overall health, and that includes your skin. Smoking damages the collagen in your skin, which leads to wrinkles and sagging skin. It can also make your skin more dry and irritated. So if you want to keep your skin looking its best, it’s best to quit smoking.
7. Use Sunscreen
Protecting your skin from the sun is important for preventing wrinkles, age spots, and other types of damage. When choosing a sunscreen, look for one that has an SPF of 30 or higher and is labeled “broad-spectrum.” This means it will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Also, make sure to apply sunscreen generously and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
8. Cleanse Your Skin Gently
With all the different cleansers on the market, it can be tempting to try out the latest and greatest product. But when it comes to your skin, sometimes less is more. Over-cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. So stick to a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin, and use it once or twice a day.
9. Make Exfoliation a Part of Your Routine
Exfoliating your skin helps to remove dead skin cells that can make your skin look dull. It also helps to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. When exfoliating, be sure to use gentle, circular motions and avoid scrubbing too hard, as this can irritate your skin. You should also exfoliate only once or twice a week, as doing it more often can actually do more harm than good.
10. See a Dermatologist If You Need To
If you’re struggling with persistent acne or other skin problems, it may be time to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist can help you figure out what’s causing your skin problems and develop a treatment plan. They can also prescribe medication if needed. So don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you’re not seeing results from over-the-counter products.
By following these 10 healthy habits, you can improve your skin health and achieve clear, glowing skin. Remember, it’s important to be patient and consistent with your skincare routine. Results won’t happen overnight, but you’ll see a difference in your skin over time if you stick with it.
