The preventative skincare steps you start taking now

Preventative Skincare: The Steps You Should Be Taking

Your skin can reveal a lot about your overall health. And if you’re ready to start a reliable skincare regimen, but you don’t know where to start, don’t worry. Some of the easiest and most effective ways to take care of your skin are basic. If the thought of preventative skincare still feels daunting, these are the steps you should be taking, according to the Mayo Clinic and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).


Use sunscreen

Spending time outside at the pool, beach and more is a great way to unwind, but it’s important to protect your skin when doing so. It is recommended that you wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply it every two hours.


Avoid smoking

If you want to prevent premature aging and wrinkles, you should avoid smoking, according to The Mayo Clinic. The medical center reports that smoking can make the skin appear paler due to its narrowing of the blood vessels.


Limit bathtime

Sure, taking a bath is a great way to de-stress at home, but excessive baths and showers with hot water can cause the skin to age prematurely. To avoid stripping your skin of necessary oils, try using warm water instead.


Avoid strong soaps

In the same vein, when washing your skin, be sure to avoid using strong soaps, as well as detergents when washing your clothes. Like hot water, strong soaps can also strip the skin of its oils.


Shave gently

Being gentle is key. When shaving, it’s important to first lubricate the skin with a shaving cream or lotion. Shave with the grain of your hair, using a clean and sharp razor.


Moisturize

Be sure to use moisturizer, especially when the weather is colder. The harsh winter months can dry out the skin, and using a thick cream or ointment is a great way to trap needed moisture.


Don’t use products that burn

Finding skincare products that work best for you can be difficult. If you come across a product that makes your skin burn, stop using it. If you have sensitive skin, it’s good practice to do a patch test on your upper forearm before using the product all over your face.


Maintain a healthy diet

You don’t need to pour hundreds of dollars into your skincare regimen, all you need are some fruits and vegetables. According to The Mayo Clinic, some research suggests a link between a diet low in unhealthy fats and refined carbohydrates and younger-looking skin.


Manage stress

There are plenty of ways that stress affects the body, and breaking out can be one of them. Whether it’s reading, going for a walk or meditating, one way to practice preventative skincare is to find ways to manage your stress.


Avoid indoor tanning

We’ve already covered the ways in which sun exposure can impact your skin, and the same applies to indoor tanning. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, whenever you get a tan, you age your skin. Instead of using a tanning bed, the organization recommends using self-tanners for that bronze glow.


Use products that are water-resistant

Going in the hot tub or for a swim in the pool can be fun. But it’s important to protect your skin when doing so. Buying products that block UVA and UVB rays is key, but you should also double-check that the products are water-resistant.


Seek shade during peak UV hours

Another way to protect yourself against the sun is to stay in the shade during peak UV hours. According to the American Cancer Society, those hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.


Wash your face

Sweat can do a number on your skin. Whether you were working out or just running errands, the AAD recommends that you wash your face twice a day.


Avoid repetitive facial expressions

This one might be surprising, but the AAD recommends that you avoid making repetitive facial expressions. When you do this, you contract muscles, and contracting the same muscles for years can cause some lines to become permanent.


Rest up

Premature aging can occur if you don’t get enough sleep. The Mayo Clinic’s website states that getting enough sleep can help you manage your stress, and in turn give your skin a boost.


Blot skin with a towel after washing

Instead of completely drying off your skin after a shower or bath, try patting it dry. This will keep some of the moisture on your skin.


Wear protective clothing

The easiest way to keep your skin safe is to wear protective clothing. Along with SPF, wearing hats, long-sleeved shirts and long pants is a great way to shield yourself from the sun.


Exercise regularly

The AAD reports that exercise is a great way to prevent premature aging. Moderate exercise can improve circulation, which can give the skin a younger-looking appearance.


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