A better You

Understanding your skin

Jul 13 2009 - 4:13pm

1. Fight free Radicals – Free radicals, small unstable oxygen molecules, attach to other cells of the body and break them down. The skin protein collagen is particularly susceptible to free radicals, which cause the collagen molecules to break down and re-link up a different way, which in turn makes them become stiff and less mobile. Eating foods rich in antioxidants and using skin products that contain antioxidants can help reduce free radicals.

2. Keep Hydrated – With age, cells stop regenerating at the rate they once did and in the same efficient way. Cells become more abnormally shaped, which makes the texture of the skin appear different and prevents the skin from retaining water. As a result, the skin’s texture and water-retaining is diminished. The recommended daily intake of water is 75 fl oz a day for women and 100 fl oz for men.

3. Stop the causes of skin again – Knowing all the possible causes of premature skin aging can help you take preventative action. The main culprits are free radical damage to our cells from exposure to the sun, cigarette smoke, toxins, and pollutions, but poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, sleep deprivation, and the use of harsh skin products can all accelerate the process.

4. Spot your type of skin aging – Chronologically aged skin is a result of natural internal factors and manifests as thinner and less elastic skin that is otherwise smooth and unblemished. Photo aging however, is marked by wrinkles, age spots, uneven pigmentation, and a more leathery appearance.

5. Identify your skin type – In order to choose the right skincare products, you need to know your skin type. Dry skin usually has an uneven skin tone, visible capillaries, and flakiness, while oily skin is more prone to visible pores, breakouts, and areas of pigmentation.

6. Skin changes – The texture of skin alters frequently depending on environmental factors like pollution and weather so you should change your skin products accordingly. To check up on the current state of your skin, hold a magnifying mirror up close to your cleansed face in bright daylight and look for identifying clues.


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