7 Tips for Your Clearest Skin
Healthy, glowing skin can be one of the best confidence boosters. Unfortunately, skin health is something many struggle with.
The state of our skin often reflects our overall health. Skin conditions such as acne, blemishes, dryness, and rashes can provide us with clues about our internal digestion, stress and energy.
The prevalence of toxins in the body plus dehydration often results in skin conditions like acne.
The fix? Establishing a healthy skincare routine is often the best place to start. Here, we explore tips to help you beat the breakouts and restore your skin health so you can glow in no time!
A Quick Look at Skin Basics
Did you know that the skin is the body’s largest organ? It is made up of water, fats, protein, and other essential minerals.
Aside from being a source of outer beauty, our skin’s primary role is a protective one, protecting us against illness and the environment.
The skin also:
- Acts as a barrier to protect our body from UV rays, toxins, and germs.
- Regulates our body temperature and helps maintain proper hydration.
- Helps to store water, fat, and other metabolic products.
- Houses important sensory mechanisms and nerves to help give us our sense of touch.
Interestingly, cells in the skin help turn sunlight into vitamin D. Of course, vitamin D is an essential nutrient for things like bone health and improved mental health.
Our skin comprises three distinct layers: Epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer. Let’s take a quick look at the role of each.
Epidermis
The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin that we see and touch. It is composed of an important protein known as keratin. The epidermis provides a defense to fight off bacteria, germs, infections and harsh environmental factors. The epidermis also contains melanin, which helps determine skin type and color.
Dermis
The dermis makes up roughly 90 percent of your skin’s thickness. This middle layer of skin contains proteins like collagen and elastin to help provide strength and elasticity to the skin. The dermis also houses hair follicles as well as oil and sweat glands.
Subcutaneous (Hypodermis)
The deepest layer of skin is known as the subcutaneous layer or hypodermis. It is composed of collagen and fat cells.
The fatty layer of skin helps cushion muscles and bones and regulate body temperature. Also, blood vessels and nerves branch out from the hypodermis to connect to other areas of the body.
What Causes Unhealthy Skin?
There are many reasons your skin could be lacking a smooth, vibrant glow. Skin diseases are one source of poor skin health. These include skin diseases like acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and eczema which can also be autoimmune related.
Learning to recognize the potential causes of poor skin health can help you to better support your overall health. There is a closer link between diet and skin health than most realize!
Highly processed foods, fried foods and dairy can lead to excess oil production (sebum). When combined with dead skin cells, this can cause acne and breakouts.
Other potential causes of unhealthy skin include:
- Poor hygiene - Not washing your face twice a day can lead to dirt and grime buildup, eventually leading to blemishes and clogged pores. You should also aim to not hold your phone against your skin, and wash your pillowcases regularly.
- Excess sun exposure - Aside from contributing to dry skin, UV rays can irritate and damage the skin. This is why it is so important to wear sunscreen.
- Stress - When you are releasing cortisol, you often reach for unhealthy foods. A combination of the two can lead to higher inflammation and acne.
7 Tips for Clearer Skin
With an abundance of products and lifestyle tips, healthier skin is now more attainable. It’s important to understand that every body is different - so you will need to experiment with what works for you!
1. Wash Your Face Regularly
It may sound obvious, but regular washing is vital to any skincare regimen.
We recommend washing your face twice a day — morning and evening. Dermatology research is clear on the effectiveness of regular face washing with a mild facial cleanser to help those with acne.
2. Choose Gentle Cleansing Agents
You should avoid harsh skin care products like exfoliants when it comes clearing your skin. Often abrasive products can worsen inflammation and acne.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends using alcohol-free skin products, as well as avoiding:
- Toners
- Astringents
- Exfoliants
There are gentle toners for those with oily skin. These typically contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid. This may also help maintain the skin’s pH balance.
Applying an acne-fighting agent can be beneficial for some to help clear up breakouts and blemishes. Many over-the-counter (OTC) acne treatments include ingredients like benzoyl peroxide. These can help remove bacteria and topical retinoids for spot treatments but should be used in small doses - they are powerful.
Retinol is a popular skin resurfacer derived from vitamin A and is used anti-aging. Retinol can be found in creams, gels, lotions, serums, and ointments - we recommend only using on skin that is not acne prone.
3. Exfoliate Often
When it comes to clear skin, exfoliation is a must. However - harsher does not necessarily mean best! Opt for an exfoliating option with fine grains, or a chemical exfoliant or peel.
Exfoliating your skin can help remove dirt buildup and excess dead skin cells. Over time, these can clog skin pores and lead to breakouts.
Be sure to patch test your exfoliation option on your hand before using it on your face.
4. Don’t Forget To Moisturize
After washing and exfoliating, be sure to properly moisturize your skin. Moisturizing is particularly important for those prone to dry skin.
There is no need for fancy moisturizers, either. Simply opt for one that is “non-comedogenic,” which means it won’t clog your pores. Our JSHealth Moisturiser is all natural and full of rich oils to nourish your skin morning and night.
You can also choose natural makeup products that will allow your pores to breathe. Remember to remove all makeup at the end of every day and to clean any makeup brushes regularly!
5. Avoid Touching Your Face
Another tip for achieving clear skin is to avoid touching your face. Constantly touching your face with your hands can deposit bacteria, dirt, and oils onto your skin. This can lead to breakouts.
6. Choose Quality Supplements
Aside from the basic skincare routines (regular washing, exfoliating, and moisturizing), some nutrients and supplements will help you achieve clearer skin.
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient and potent antioxidant that is known for helping to reduce the effects of oxidative stress and free radicals.
Vitamin C can also help maintain and support skin health. Not only does it help ward off the effects of oxidative stress, but vitamin C also supports collagen synthesis. As noted, collagen is a protein that helps promote skin elasticity, giving it proper support and structure.
Our Skin + Digestion formula is complete with vitamin C and other ingredients to promote skin health. These include proven ingredients like zinc to soothe symptoms of breakouts and minor skin eruptions. It also includes burdock, riboflavin, turmeric, aloe vera, and more. We also have a complete collagen range to support your skin health.
7. Practice Sun Protection
Another simple tip for clear skin involves preventing environmental damage. As mentioned, UV rays from the sun can damage the skin.
Protective clothing and sunscreen will help protect the skin. Most dermatologists recommend using a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher - be sure to apply daily, even if the sun isn’t visible.
Some Extra Clear Skin Tips
As we know, skin health is closely tied to your diet. One of the best changes you can make is avoiding processed foods like refined sugars and carbs, and opting instead for whole foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins.
Your cells, and your skin, need water to retain moisture. Ensuring you’re drinking water throughout the day can help your skin cells stay hydrated and healthy.
Lastly, make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep. A lack of sleep could contribute to skin breakouts and reduce your stress which all helps to lower inflammation.
The Bottom Line
Healthy, glowing skin can be a great source of confidence.
The best way to approach your skin health is holistically. Be sure you’re caring for yourself and nourishing from the inside out with diet, exercise and quality skincare products and supplements.
If you are struggling with acne or any persistent skin conditions, be sure to approach a naturopath or health professional for a personalized plan.
Sources:
Keep Your Skin Healthy | NIH News in Health
When it comes to skin health, does diet make a difference? | AAD