Skin Care from the Inside Out

Jan. 22, 2010 - PRLog -- Our skin is a reflection of what goes on inside our bodies, just as much as external elements such as sun exposure.

Hydrate Hydrate Hydrate!

More than 50% of the human body is made of water, yet most Americans don’t drink enough.

Water keeps our skin hydrated. During the course of every day we lose a percentage of the water our bodies hold, so it is important that we replenish that supply regularly.  Drinking water will help prevent dry flaky skin, including chapped lips, and brittle and fragile hair and nails.

Water also helps to flush out the impurities in our system. Drink plenty of water and watch your skin improve. Spring water is a better choice than water right out of your kitchen sink because it has less chemicals in it. Try carrying a bottle of water with you at all times, to ensure that you remain hydrated during the day.

You really are what you eat

High sugar, high fat diets can add to the internal inflammation that can lead to acne and blackheads, and even eczema. Instead, choose healthy proteins such as fatty fish, including salmon and mackerel, which offer the benefits of anti-aging and heart healthy omega 3 fatty acids. Skinless chicken and turkey breast are also good choices. Don’t forget the importance of extra virgin olive oil as a replacement for high fat, high calorie butter and other cooking oils.

Carbohydrate-heavy foods loaded with starches and sugar, such as potatoes and pastas, can raise your blood sugar and affect your body by breaking down the collagen that keeps your skin taut and firm. They can of course help you pack on the pounds too.

But don’t give up on all carbs. Just load up on healthy fruits and vegetables. Set a goal of eating at least five servings every day. Getting your vitamins is important too. Vitamin A rich foods, such as spinach and kale, and vitamin E loaded treats such as almonds and hazelnuts help to contribute to healthy, glowing skin.

Drinking too much alcohol and coffee can also cause major damage to the skin. They can widen the small veins and capillaries under the skin, especially across the nose and cheeks, and give the appearance of broken veins.

Sleeping Beauty

Not getting enough rest? It is probably showing on your face. While we are sleeping, our bodies are repairing themselves and generating new cells. A lack of sleep means you are depriving yourself of the time you need to rejuvenate your skin. Plus, sleep time is our opportunity to reduce levels of stress, which can really impact the appearance of our skin, including premature aging. Shoot for eight hours per night.

No butts about it

Smoking is probably the worst thing you can do to your body, and your skin, from the inside out. Not only is smoking the biggest risk factor for lung cancer, it contributes to heart disease and stroke, and also dehydrates the skin and causes premature aging.

There is even a term for it – “smoker’s face” – which describes the fine lines and wrinkles and loss of elasticity in the skin that can make you look years older than you really are. A smoker’s skin color is almost never as bright as that of a non-smoker. So if you are a smoker, the best beauty treatment you can give yourself is to stop today. And aside from the beauty effects, you could be literally adding years to your life by quitting.

Make your home a no-smoking zone. Smoking wreaks havoc on the skin even if you are not the one smoking. Secondhand smoke can be just as harmful to you as it is to the smoker. Just say no to a smoky, harmful living environment!

To learn more visit Dermatologist Dr. Marcy Street on the web at http://www.daderm.com/.

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About Dr. Marcy Street and Doctor’s Approach Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center: Doctor’s Approach is a full-service medical and surgical dermatology clinic with a cosmetic medical spa. Our dermatology practice has been well established and respected for over 15 years, with patients visiting from all over the Midwest region. Our mission is to provide the best in cutting edge, comprehensive care and services in a relaxing and nurturing environment. Find us on the web at http://www.daderm.com/.