While everyone’s skin care needs are different, there are basic guidelines to follow. These rules help you literally put your best face forward, allowing you to enjoy a radiant look that boosts your confidence. Use the following tips to ensure your skin glows. 

Do: 

Hydrate every day. 

Dehydrated skin looks and feels dry, and can feature more prominent lines and wrinkles. Sipping water throughout the day, every day keeps skin cells hydrated and plump for a fresher, younger-looking appearance. 

Water also flushes toxins from the body that might erupt as blemishes and boils otherwise. Since the skin is the body’s largest organ, it can eliminate toxins through its pores if other avenues, such as urine, are not available. 

Enjoy a skin-healthy diet. 

Sugar breaks down collagen, or one of the body’s structural proteins that contributes to supple, firm skin. If you eat a lot of sweet treats and processed foods, you’ll eventually notice a duller, more wrinkled appearance. Sugar also contributes to bodily inflammation that can trigger breakouts. 

Stick to skin-loving foods instead, including fatty fish featuring omega-3 fatty acids that keep the skin supple and moisturized. Avocados provide high levels of vitamin C, which helps counteract dry, rough skin. 

Don’t: 

Touch your face. 

Leaning on your hand or otherwise pressing your fingers into your skin exposes pores to bacteria, which can cause minor infections resulting in whiteheads. Touching your face also presses makeup into your pores, which makes them larger and more prone to blackheads and whiteheads from related bacterial exposure. Always wash your hands thoroughly before applying makeup, and use washcloths or similar products to remove makeup and excess oil. 

Leave the house without sun protection. 

Unprotected exposure to UV rays not only increases your risk of skin cancer but also contributes to premature aging. Ultraviolet radiation creates free radicals, or unstable oxidation byproducts that damage skin cells and proteins to result in lined, wrinkled, sagging skin. 

Make sunblock part of your skin care routine and apply it before going outdoors, regardless of the time of year. It also helps to wear large sunglasses with built-in UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat. 

For more skin care help, make an appointment with Northeastern Dermatology PLLC in Rocky Mount, NC. The dermatology center offers a wide variety of treatments and products that help you create a winning skin care routine. Call (252) 281-2567 today to make your first appointment or learn more about services and products online.