Preventative action can aid in delaying aging process 

As the largest organ of the human body, the importance of keeping skin protected and healthy is monumental. According to the American Cancer Society, skin cancer is the most common of all cancers with upward of 3.5 million cases diagnosed each year.

The skin has numerous functions in keeping a body regulated and safe, including covering and protecting other organs, serving as a barrier from germs and bacteria, preventing the loss of water and other fluids, helping to control body temperature and making vitamin D. Because of the exposure of the skin, keeping it healthy and safe so that it can continue to properly serve its purpose takes a certain degree of mindfulness and proactive measures.

Taking preventative action and getting an early start to maintaining healthy skin can aid in delaying the natural aging process, as well as prevent against certain skin conditions and cancers. One of the most important ways in self-caring for your skin is to keep it protected against harmful UV rays. This can include wearing sunscreen, wearing long-sleeve clothing or staying in shaded areas. When using sunscreen, it is most significant to use a broad-spectrum

SPF of at least 30 or higher and to apply generously to exposed skin. Additionally, it is recommended to reapply every two hours or more often if swimming, sweating or toweling off. If practical, it is best to wear clothing to cover exposed skin, something lightweight but that will block out sunlight as well. Accessories such as sunglasses and hats are also useful, but be sure to use sunscreen on any areas of the neck or ears that may still be exposed. Seek shade whenever possible, and remember that even when there is an overcast that UV rays are still present and could be harmful.

While there are more commonknowledge tactics in protecting and keeping skin healthy such as covering it from sunlight, there are other lifestyle factors that influence skin health as well. Smoking contributes significantly to the damaging of skin, as well as other organs. Smoking can lead to the premature aging of the skin, causing wrinkles. It deprives the skin of oxygen and nutrients needed to remain healthy by narrowing the blood vessels and decreasing blood flow. Collagen and elastin are the fibers in which keep the skin looking young and healthy by giving it strength and elasticity. Smoking damages these fibers, and additionally the facial movements made when smoking also can contribute to wrinkles.

One of the more well-known measures in keeping skin looking fresh and healthy is to moisturize, as well as regular cleansing.

In washing and cleaning the skin, it’s important to be gentle and limit the amount of friction such as shaving and scrubbing. Using hot water can also be potentially harsh on the skin as it can remove essential and beneficial oils needed to keep the skin soft. Instead, limit the bath or shower time and consider bathing with warm instead of hot water. Harsh soaps can also contribute to removing oils from the skin, so it’s important to use milder or more sensitive soap and pay attention to how your body reacts. Other tips include patting dry, using proper lather when shaving and to always moisturize after showering.

Eating healthy is not only beneficial to the physical health of a body, but it can have a profound impact on the skin as well. Foods that are rich in antioxidants, according to the Mayo Clinic, are the best choice for benefiting skin health. Some of these food options include yellow and orange fruits and vegetables like carrots and apricots; leafy vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, blueberries, beans, peas, lentils; salmon and other fish with omega-3; and nuts.

Finally, a major contributing factor to the health and appearance of skin is stress. Managing the difficulties of life influence the body both internally and externally. When stress is not dealt with properly, it can make one more prone to certain skin conditions and acne, as well as making it more sensitive in general. Dealing with stress can be made simpler by being more mindful of the expectations set on one’s self, balancing home and work life, and taking proper self-care through healthy eating, exercising and meditation.