It’s very important that you look after your skin today if you want to have good skin in the decades to come. You definitely need to have a good daily skincare regime, suitable for your particular skin type.
Whilst most of us have a skincare routine that we turn to every day, there are occasions when your complexion may need a little boost.
What can affect your skin’s health?
As our largest organ, the skin regulates temperature and protects our bodies from irritants, allergens and microbes. From hormones and lifestyle to the weather and air pollutants, many things can influence our skin’s condition. As the skin on our faces is constantly exposed to the elements, factors like stress, nutrition and sleep can also impact on its health and appearance.
When does the skin need extra attention?
Seasonal changes and extreme temperatures can have an impact on our skin, with protection needed against the sun’s UV rays in the summer months or hot, humid climates. During winter, cold conditions dry the skin out causing irritation and cracking.
Looking after your skin in the summer months
As the sun comes out and the mercury rises most of us bare more skin, exposing us to harmful UV levels which can lead to sunburn and aging without proper care. You might slip outside for twenty minutes or so, not even thinking about applying sun cream but this can be so dangerous. Your skin needs to be protected at all times, whether you’ll be outside for a matter of minutes or several hours.
Although your skin needs sunlight to make vitamin D for healthy bones, it’s important that you use at least factor 15 sun cream with a UVA rating of 4 or 5 stars and that you apply it thickly and at regular intervals. Applying it once in the morning isn’t going to be enough if you’re planning on spending the whole day in the sun, it’ll need topping up at least every two hours. You don’t want to end up with sunburn as this can increase your chances of developing skin cancer considerably.
Wearing a sun hat and sunglasses is a good idea and if you can, spend some time in the shade when the sun is at its hottest. You’ll need to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. On summer days when it’s cloudy or raining, you should continue to apply sun cream as part of your daily skincare regime as your skin will still needs protecting.
Looking after your skin in the winter months
When cold weather hits, it can be easy for your skin to become dry and flaky so using a good moisturiser and hand cream is a must. You should apply it several times a day and wear a hat, scarf and gloves when out and about. Your lips might become chapped with the cold so make sure you carry a lip balm with you. When you’re inside, try not to sit by a fire or radiator as the heat can dry your skin out even more.
Colder climates can also aggravate conditions like eczema, calling for a step-up in skincare. Applying a heavier, oil-based moisturiser is crucial in winter as it protects the skin from harsher elements. Wearing gloves and swapping long, hot baths for shorter, warm showers will help keep skin smooth and hydrated. Drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin and if you can, apply a hydrating face mask at least once a fortnight to give your skin a boost.
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