Wellness@Work: How to keep your skin healthy

By Kimberly Donnellan, M.D., F.A.C.S.
USA Health Facial Plastic Surgery 

November is recognized as National Healthy Skin Month, a time to learn about skin care and adopt habits that can support healthier skin, hair and nails for a lifetime.

Maintaining healthy skin involves establishing a consistent skincare routine, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and protecting your skin from environmental stressors. It also includes avoiding unsafe skincare trends — often popularized by social media — such as performing cosmetic treatments at home, using tanning beds, and skipping sunscreen.

Here are some essential tips for keeping your skin healthy:

• Cleansing: Cleanse your skin twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening, to remove dirt, oil and impurities. Use a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type to avoid stripping away natural oils.
• Moisturizing: Apply a moisturizer suited for your skin type to maintain skin hydration and prevent dryness. Opt for non-comedogenic formulas to avoid clogging pores, and consider using a separate moisturizer for the delicate skin around your eyes.
• Sun protection: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, particularly when outdoors, and wear protective clothing and accessories like hats and sunglasses.
• Healthy diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to provide essential nutrients for skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, and antioxidants contribute to skin vitality and protect against environmental damage.
• Hydration: Drink an adequate amount of water daily to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out. Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity, flush toxins, and support overall skin health.
• Gentle exfoliation: Incorporate gentle exfoliation into your skincare routine to slough off dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as it may irritate the skin and disrupt its barrier function. Never exfoliate the lips, as the skin is very thin in this area.
• Stress management: Manage stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. Chronic stress can lead to skin issues such as acne, eczema, and premature aging.
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can have detrimental effects on skin health, leading to premature aging, dehydration, and a dull complexion. Secondhand smoke also has been shown to have a negative effect on your overall health.
• Skincare products: Be mindful of the skincare products you use and ensure they are suitable for your skin type. Consider consulting a skincare professional if you have specific skin concerns or sensitivities, not a random person on TikTok.
• Regular skincare assessments: Schedule regular consultations with a skincare provider to address any skin issues, obtain personalized recommendations, and receive professional skincare treatments when necessary.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can help maintain the health and appearance of your skin, promoting a radiant and vibrant complexion.

How can you lead a longer, better life? Follow weekly Wellness@Work tips from USA Health Integrative Health and Wellness. We cover ways you can eat better, move better, be more mindful, and find more balance to support your optimal health and well-being. Learn more.