Did you know that your skin is your body’s largest organ? Yes! Usually when we think of organs we think of the internal organs like the stomach, liver, or kidneys, but your body has external organs as well, including the skin. And the skin plays a very important protective role. It’s vital for good health; it helps regulate body temperature, it receives sensory information, and it stores water, fat, and vitamin D.
As with any other organ, the skin can get ‘sick.’ Skin conditions may be inherited through genetics or may develop due to external or lifestyle factors, which can result in your skin becoming clogged, irritated, or inflamed. Eczema, acne, ringworm, alopecia areata and rashes are all examples of common skin conditions. Treatments for skin problems depend on the specific condition. A good dermatologist will know what to recommend. But there are many steps you can take on your own to reduce the symptoms and risks of developing skin problems. Do you know how? If you guessed “through lifestyle choices” you are absolutely correct! Our lifestyle choices affect everything, including the health of our skin.
We all want healthy, glowing skin! But what does that mean really? Healthy skin does not have to be flawless or blemish free, but it should be hydrated, fairly smooth, and even in colour. We tend to spend money working on our skin from the outside. We buy the best, most expensive skincare products. We engage in routine skincare services and procedures. But it’s also very important that we put in the work from the inside as well! What we eat, what we do and how we do it has a tremendous effect on our skin. So, let’s look into some dos and don’ts to achieve that glowing skin!
Do
- Consume lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. They contain antioxidants, nutrients and vitamins that contribute to collagen production, overall protection, and skin tone!
- Stay hydrated. Get your minimum of 8 glasses of water in daily – your skin will thank you for it.
- Get adequate sleep every night. Do this not just to avoid baggy eyes but for the restoration that occurs during rest.
- Use sunscreen!
- Engage in regular exercise (a good stress management activity!)
Don’ts
- Use excessive alcohol or tobacco. Both contribute to the dehydration of your skin.
- Allow dirt or excess oil to build up on the surface of your skin.
- Consume too many foods that are high in sugar, saturated fats, and salt. Quick tip? Reading your food labels will help!
Remember everyone’s skin is different and everyone’s journey to naturally glowing and healthy skin looks different. Trust the process! Remember to take it one day at a time and remind yourself that you deserve to look good and feel good!
Did You Know?
The ingredients list on a food label is a tell all! A food label lists ingredients in order of “heaviest weight” to “lightest weight.” It should also list the ingredients by their common names. If you don’t know the meaning of an ingredient on the label, or if you can’t identify the source of that ingredient, you should do some research before eating or even buying the product.
