Maintaining skin health over a lifetime is achieved in a number of different ways, through direct care of the skin by cleansing and moisturizing as well as indirect care by eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of rest and exercise. Wearing sunscreen is another important way to promote skin health, and can help to prevent damage leading to wrinkles, sun spots, or skin cancer. The way skin is cared for will change over time, and is based on each individual's specific needs, since each person's skin type is different; some are more prone to acne, for example, while others may have specific allergies.
Cleansing and moisturizing the skin are some of the simplest ways to achieve skin health. A gentle cleanser may be used every day, with a more exfoliating cleanser used once or twice a week depending on the skin type. People with acne might choose a cleanser with medicated ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. A light moisturizer may be used during the day, whereas a heavier moisturizer can be used at night to prevent wrinkles. Moisturizers that contain vitamins and antioxidants may help to repair skin damage as well; the specific ingredients chosen in a moisturizer may also change based on skin type and desired effect.
A healthy diet can also help to promote skin health. Fruits and vegetables, for example, contain antioxidants which help to remove free radicals from the system and give the skin a more glowing, youthful appearance. Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated throughout the day will have the same effect. Conversely, eating an unhealthy diet will make the skin look dull, and can also contribute to acne. In addition to a healthy diet, other healthy lifestyle habits such as getting plenty of exercise, and attempting to get at least six to eight hours of sleep per night will contribute to the overall health of the body and the health of the skin.
Wearing sunscreen is one of the most important ways to maintain skin health. Sunscreen should be applied every day, whether it is particularly sunny outside or not. Sun damage can occur over time, and can lead to wrinkles and sun spots, causing the skin to lose elasticity. Sun damage to the skin can also lead to skin cancer, which can be fatal. This is why it is extremely important to always apply sunscreen; some people simply choose a daily moisturizer that contains sunscreen of at least SPF 15 to ensure that the face is protected every day.