November is observed as National Healthy Skin Month in the United States. Sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), this public health awareness campaign aims to educate people about the importance of having healthy skin.
Sometimes people don’t realize the changes in skin can be a sign of serious issues like autoimmune disease, infection, or skin cancer. Raising awareness and educating people about skin health will help them notice any unusual changes that happen in their skin. This helps detect the skin problem early when it is highly treatable. According to Pharmacy Times, more than 1 million Americans are living with melanoma. If detected early, melanoma is highly treatable. National Healthy Skin Month reminds people to review common skin problems and the treatments for them.
As winter sets in, the skin will tend to turn dry and dull due to the lack of moisture. This is the right time to make people think about skin care. This campaign also provides the opportunity to promote skin care in general. Basic skin problems like dryness, acne, etc. can be treated by taking proper care of your skin. For instance, using product that is not suitable for your skin can damage it. It’s very important to know your skin type and buy a product that suits it.
Skincare is important because skin is the largest organ and outer covering of the body. It plays a vital role in protecting you from outside pathogens, holds all your internal organs together, holds body fluids to prevent dehydration, keeps your body temperature even, and more.
With all this in mind, here are some tips to help you achieve healthy skin:
- Know your skin type and choose skin products based on that.
- Avoid taking a long steamy shower. It is better to take a lukewarm shower for about 5-10 minutes.
- Choose a cleanser based on your skin type. Use moisturizing cleanser or gel to cleanse your skin every day. Avoid products that contain chemicals such as alcohol, added fragrances, etc. as they strip away natural oils.
- Choose moisturizer or body lotion carefully. Oil-based products are recommended over water-based products as they retain important hydrating oils. To lock down as much moisture as possible, apply the moisturizer immediately after washing your skin.
- Don’t forget your lips – applying moisturizing balm on your lips can keep them from getting dry and chapped.
- Whether it is summer or winter, wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection and protective clothing whenever you step out in the sun. Even if it is winter, the sun’s UV rays can damage the skin and cause wrinkles, liver spots, dryness, and cancer. Make sure you reapply sunscreen after two hours and after heavy sweating.
- Always stay hydrated and eat right. A healthy diet can help a lot when it comes to maintaining healthy skin.
- Avoid smoking as it contributes to wrinkles and makes the skin look older.
- People tend to crank up the heat inside when it is chilly outside, but central heating can make the air in the house even drier. Keep the setting cool yet comfortable (68°F to 72°F) to maintain healthy skin.
- Change wet clothes quickly to avoid itching.
Develop a skincare routine that will keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Celebrate National Healthy Skin Month by sharing these tips and spreading awareness about skin health.
