​Six ways to keep your skin healthy

With review and feedback from CEENTA facial plastic specialist Neela Rao, MD (Fort Mill)

Your skin is one of the most visible parts of your body and your body’s first major defense organ. Keeping skin healthy is important for more than just your appearance. It prevents germs from entering your body and provides protection for your bones, muscles, and internal organs. It also helps regulate your body temperature. Today, we’re going to discuss six ways to keep your skin healthy.

Wear sunscreen

Sunscreen protects our skin from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. An overexposure to UV rays can cause a range of issues from sunburn to skin cancer, not to mention fine lines and loss of elasticity, which makes skin age prematurely. If you’re going to spend time in the sun, you should wear sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30. Anything less is ineffective. The lighter your skin, the higher the SPF should be. SPF 30 to 50 sunscreen should be applied to the face, scalp, ears, and neck, where the majority of skin cancers occur.

Remove makeup

Removing makeup every night is necessary for skin health. Build-up of dirt and grease can clog your pores, leading to acne and blackheads, CEENTA facial plastic specialist Neela Rao, MD, said. It is important to use a gentle make-up remover without alcohol, which strips the skin of essential oils.

Moisturize

Keeping your skin hydrated prevents dry, red, and itchy skin.

Don’t smoke

Smoking decreases blood flow to the skin, making it look dusky and impairing its ability to regenerate and heal. It also deprives the skin of oxygen and nutrients that healthy skin needs. Additionally, it damages the collagen and elastin that make your skin strong and elastic. Finally, smoking can increase your risk of skin cancer.

Eat a healthy diet

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are known to promote healthy skin. Foods high in antioxidants and omega-3 oils are particularly beneficial. Diets high in sugar or dairy products may contribute to inflammation and breakouts.

Reduce alcohol consumption and increase hydration

Alcohol dehydrates the skin and can make your skin look volume-depleted, Dr. Rao said. Staying well-hydrated can help your skin look more vibrant and supple.

Skin care at CEENTA

If you want to give your skin a more youthful look, schedule an appointment at CEENTA. From skin care products to cosmetic facial plastic surgery, our doctors can help give the work you do to keep your skin healthy an extra boost.

This blog is for informational purposes only. For specific medical questions, please consult your doctor. Would you like an appointment with Dr. Rao? Call 704-295-3000. You can also request an appointment online or through myCEENTAchart.