The largest organ of the human body is often ignored and neglected, yet it continues to defend and protect us throughout our lives.
Most people would suspect the liver, large intestines or the lungs but the largest organ of the human body is skin.
Your skin protects your musculoskeletal system and organs, keeps you warm and provides nourishment. It is also the first wall of defense against external substances such as bacteria.
Due to the fact that the defensive and protective functions of skin are demanding, it is important to maintain it like other vital organs such as the heart, brain and liver so that it can perform at its best.
Since skin is one of the organs that you cannot live without, it is important to follow several tips to maintain and protect your skin.
Develop a skin care regimen
Our pores absorb dust and pollution from the environment which can alter the appearance of skin. However to rid these things, good old fashioned soap and water cannot do the job because harsh soaps strip the skin of its moisture and causes the skin to look dry and weathered. It is important to have a skin care regimen for your face that includes cleansers, moisturizers to hydrate the skin, toners to remove any lingering residue and exfoliation that removes dead skin cells. Since everyone’s skin is different, choose a regimen that fits you best.
Always wear SPF
No matter what shade you are, it is important to wear sun block even during the winter. Harmful ultraviolet rays such as UVA and UVB can cause serious skin damage, sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer. The UV rays are at their highest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Maintain a healthy diet
Food and drinks have a significant impact on the appearance of skin. Avoid drinks that dehydrate the skin such as coffee and caffeinated drinks. If you do drink coffee, do so in moderation and drink a glass of water to replace the fluid that you lost. To have supple skin, drink eight 8 ounce glasses of water throughout the day. Nutrients such as vitamin A, C and E can help keep skin healthy. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and trout help treat skin dryness and reduce inflammation which can help prevent acne breakouts.
Get your beauty rest
“Beauty rest” has its name for a reason. You do not want to look like a zombie from the lack of sleep. Sleep is an important factor of having healthy skin. Getting eight hours of sleep a night can improve your skin in texture and appearance.
Fake and bake
Instead of sunbathing at the beach or going to a tanning salon, use self-tanners or sunless tanning lotions to get that healthy glow. Not only does it save you time, but it will reduce your risk of getting skin cancer.
By taking these steps, your skin will improve and function at its best. Remember if the inside is not taken care of, it will surely show on the outside.
