Our skin faces many stressors on a daily basis that can damage its health and appearance over time. From UV radiation to pollution to lack of moisture, our skin needs protection to stay looking young and healthy. Here are some of the top ways to shield your skin from daily stressors.
Use Sunscreen Liberally
One of the biggest threats to our skin is UV radiation from the sun, which can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Using sunscreen properly is one of the best ways to protect yourself. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply generously 15-30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours if you are exercising or swimming. Sunscreen should be used year round, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget easily missed spots like ears, lips, neck, tops of feet, and hands.
Wear Protective Clothing
In addition to sunscreen, cover up with protective clothing when out in the sun. Wide-brimmed hats protect the scalp, face, ears, and neck. Sunglasses shield the delicate eye area. Tightly woven fabrics help block UV rays, so choose lightweight shirts and other ultraviolet protection clothing. Look for clothing specifically advertised as clothing with sunblock. For example, a UPF 50+ t-shirt offers excellent UV protection from the sun’s harmful rays. You can find UV ray blocking clothing at LifeJacket.
Antioxidants Are Your Friends
Pollution, cigarette smoke, UV light, and other environmental stressors produce free radicals that damage skin cells. Loading up on antioxidants helps neutralise these free radicals. Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like berries, leafy greens, tomatoes, and citrus. Consider an antioxidant supplement with vitamins C, E, and A. Use antioxidant serums and creams topically too. Green tea, vitamin C, niacinamide, and resveratrol are great antioxidant ingredients.
Moisturise and Nourish
Dry skin leads to a weakened moisture barrier, making your skin more vulnerable to damage. Keep skin hydrated with moisturisers suited to your skin type. Hydrating cleansers and rich creams replenish water content while nourishing natural oils lock it in. Look for hydrating ingredients like glycerine, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and shea butter. Exfoliate regularly to slough off dry, dead skin cells. Humidifiers add moisture to the air to prevent water loss.
Manage Stress Levels
High stress levels contribute to many skin issues like acne, eczema, dullness, and premature aging. Cortisol and other stress hormones produce excess sebum, inflammation, and free radicals. Make time for relaxing activities like meditation, yoga, massage, and forest bathing. Get good sleep, avoid smoking, and eat a healthy diet. Consider adaptogen supplements like ashwagandha to normalise cortisol levels. Keeping stress in check will help protect your skin.
Protect from Cold Exposure
Frigid temperatures and icy winds deplete the skin’s moisture, reduce circulation, and may cause chapping. Bundle up when you go out in cold weather. Opt for wind-resistant jackets, gloves, scarves, and hats. Lip balms with shea or cocoa butter defend against chapped lips. Limit hot showers that strip away natural moisturising factors.
Daily Protective Habits
Make practices like these into daily habits. This comprehensive approach will help shield your skin from various stressors and keep it looking healthy and youthful despite the passing years. Implementing even a few of these protective measures can make a big difference over time.
