7 New Year Resolutions for Healthier Skin

As we welcome the New Year, we also welcome the challenge of rejuvenating our mind, soul and body.  “Getting in shape” is the most common New Year’s resolution and as a result, it takes an additional ten minutes to find parking at the gym!  Interestingly, a boost in fitness and push for overall wellness can dramatically improve the largest organ of our bodies, skin!

Many external causes of aging or problematic skin are determined by health and lifestyle decisions made every day. Medi-Spa at Knoxville Dermatology Group understands the key to healthy, beautiful skin is making the right decisions, whether it is related to diet, fitness or environment.  Below are several tips to add to your “action plan” for 2011.

1)      Avoid Cigarette Smoke
Smoking depletes the body of Vitamin C and accelerates the rate at which collagen and elastin are broken down, according to the Winter 2011 issue of New Beauty. Smoking causes unhealthy skin because chemicals found in cigarettes suck moisture out of skin. Furthermore, skin is more likely to develop fine lines and wrinkles.
Some researchers believe that exposure to cigarette smoke (if you’re not smoker) is as damaging to aging skin as ultraviolent rays from the sun.

2)      Avoid Sun Exposure
The sun is a major cause of unhealthy skin.  Not only does repeated exposure deplete collagen and elastin, but it contributes to skin discoloration. Brown spots, red spots and wrinkles are a few examples of its damaging effects.  Moreover, neglecting proper protection from ultraviolent rays can lead to skin cancer.

3)      Increase Exercise
Exercise tones your muscles and stimulates blood flow. Proper blood flow is crucial for a natural glow and overall health. Even if you can only exercise in small increments each day, every little bit helps!

4)      Limit Exposure to Cold Weather
Winter weather is harsh on skin. Skin dryness is perpetuated by freezing temperatures outside and use of heaters inside. Staying vigilant about moisturizers and adding humidifiers to your home is good defense.

5)      Limit Alcohol Use
Alcohol dilates small blood vessels in the skin and increases blow flow near the skin’s surface. Unfortunately, these blood vessels become damaged over time and give you that lovely “flushed” appearance.  In addition, alcohol can dehydrate skin, causing overall skin color to be flat and feel dry and inflexible.

6)      Stress Less
If you’re tired and frazzled, your skin will certainly relay the message! Fight back frown lines and wrinkles with an activity you find relaxing. Yoga, pilates and/or meditation are calming forms of exercise good for mind, body and soul.

7) Get More Rest
Besides mental acuity, sleep is crucial because it rejuvenates the body, namely the skin. Research shows that adults function best with 8-9 hours of sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep routine with these hours in mind. Limit caffeine consumption only during the day and avoid eating at least 2 hours before bedtime. Not only will this boost your skin’s natural glow, but your overall energy.