As children we all learn that skin is the body’s largest organ, but it’s a fact that’s very easy to forget. While the other organs are protected from the harsh outside environment, our skin acts as the protective barrier. It’s continuously changing and growing as a result of this effort.
Needless to say, healthy skin should be a top priority for everyone. It’s not a simple cosmetic issue. Having healthy, glowing skin is good for our confidence and great for our overall well-being. If you’re looking for ways to improve the health of your skin, then keep reading.
Improve Your Contours
In the past, skin improvement focused on the surface quality. The goal was to smooth wrinkles and prevent sagging mostly around the face and neck. Thanks to emerging technology we can now improve contours as well by treating at the skin surface level.
Dr. Christopher Kelly notes that treatments using cold have been a game changer. A procedure known as Coolsculpting freezes fat, which dies and is eliminated naturally by the body. Dr. Kelly’s practice Revivology offers a custom Coolsculpting body treatment in Utah that can be used just about anywhere. The procedure does not harm the skin in any way, and some patients have noted that cellulite appears to be improved.
Improve Scars and Stretch Marks
Throughout life, we all end up with at least a few scars, and many people also end up with discolored bands known as stretch marks. Although they pose no real health risk, scars and stretch marks can be a source of self-consciousness. Unfortunately, scars and stretch marks are permanent, but they can be improved.
There are a number of topical products that can help flatten and fade scars.
- Laser treatments like Vbeam can reduce redness.
- Moisturize the area with a body oil to soften scarring.
- Topical retinol treatments can build up collagen.
- Wear sunscreen to prevent the scars from darkening.
Improve Dermal Thickness
Another skin issue that becomes more problematic with age is thinning skin. Thin skin doesn’t offer the same protection as young, thicker epidermis and it will show wrinkles more readily.
Dermal thickness is partly based on genetics. Collagen production is another factor. Collagen is a protein found in skin, bones and joints. It essentially creates a support system for the skin and helps generate new cells.
Retinol is the go-to solution for building dermal thickness since it stimulates collagen production. Vitamin C is also known to increase collagen in the skin. Dermatologists recommend using the two together for the best results.
Improve Texture and Smoothness
Few people realize that the texture of their skin plays just as big a role in the aging process as wrinkles. Over time, our skin doesn’t naturally exfoliate as frequently. The build up of skin layers on the surface can make the skin appear rough. Exfoliation is key to achieving soft, smooth skin.
- Start by using a gentle scrub at home 2-3 times a week.
- Use a cleanser with hydroxy acid to clean deep into pores so they appear smaller.
- Consider an at-home microdermabrasion kit for extra exfoliation.
- Schedule a microdermabrasion appointment if you are dealing with acne or need more dramatic exfoliation.
The outer layers of skin can make the texture appear rough, but there are other issues that can also affect the smoothness of skin. Some people develop what’s known as skin tags. These are small outgrowths of skin that look like a tiny flesh-colored mole. Skin tags are more common as we age and can become bothersome. These types of problems can be remedied at home with a special remover, or removed by a dermatologist using a laser, scalpel or liquid nitrogen.
Improve the Overall Quality of Your Skin
When it comes to improving the overall quality of your skin, there are really no magic tricks or special products to slather on. Beautiful skin starts below the surface and is heavily dependent on your lifestyle choices. The five cardinal rules of healthy skin are:
- Wear sunscreen
- Eat whole, fresh foods
- Drink lots of water
- Get plenty of sleep
- Cleanse and moisturize daily
It’s also equally important not to:
- Smoke cigarettes
- Drink alcohol regularly
- Sunbathe
- Eat lots of refined sugar
If you only follow those guidelines it will make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your skin.