Skin is the first line of defence that protects us against harmful external agents such as pollution, extreme temperatures, bacteria, viruses and other chemical substances. Skin also performs certain other crucial functions like controlling moisture loss, maintaining fluid balance and recognising pain sensations. This sensory organ is also the largest organ of our body, but unfortunately, it rarely gets enough care and attention.

Many people relate skin care with beauty rather than health. However, maintaining skin health is equally essential as taking care of any other part of your body for it to continue working effectively as a protective barrier. Other conditions such as premature ageing and wrinkling can also be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle. Find below some quick, easy and effective tips recommended by expert dermatologists at HJ Hospitals to improve your skin health naturally without using fancy skincare products or treatments.

1. Protect Against Sun

Long-term exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun can damage the DNA inside skin cells leading to wrinkles, discolouration, dark spots and even skin cancer. To prevent this, apply sunscreen of at least SPF 15 thirty minutes before stepping out of home, wear clothing that covers your skin and seek shade between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2. Quit Smoking and Alcohol

Skin damage is also one of the many side effects of smoking and drinking. Studies suggest that these habits may lead to decreased blood flow to the skin, oxidative stress, damaged skin fibres and depletion of essential skin nutrients. Hence, avoid smoking and alcohol consumption or reduce the frequency.

3. Check your Skincare Products

Skincare products containing harsh chemicals such as parabens, alcohol, added colours and fragrances can damage your skin over prolonged usage. Therefore, always check the composition label before purchasing any skincare product. Prefer herbal and natural products. Avoid using makeup daily and always remove it before going to bed.

4. Take a Healthy Diet

Your diet and eating habits impact your skin health significantly. A healthy diet rich in vitamins, minerals and other nutrients helps replenish and repair your skin. Certain foods like fatty fish, walnuts and other nuts, whole grains like oats, red bell peppers, dark leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes and pomegranates are quite beneficial for the skin as they are rich in vitamins, Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants and zinc. Eating such foods on a regular basis helps prevent skin inflammation, inhibit skin damage and soothe your skin. Also, processed foods like unhealthy fats and sugar should be avoided.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water helps prevent skin dryness and related conditions. Therefore, stay hydrated, especially on humid days.

6. Manage Stress and Sleep Well

High-stress levels may lead to conditions like severe acne breakout, itchy or scaly skin, unhealthy scalp and hair loss, increased sweating and skin rashes. Therefore, adopt practices such as meditation and yoga to curb stress. Also, a 7 to 8 hours of sound sleep is important for the skin to repair and regenerate itself.

The Bottom Line

Follow the above-mentioned tips to keep your skin healthy and delay skin ageing. If you are looking for "dermatologist near me", contact us at +243 815 586 555 to book a check-up appointment with some of the top dermatologists in the DRC and access world-class healthcare facilities only at HJ Hospitals.