How to Keep Your Skin Beautiful Year-Round

The importance of good skincare goes beyond your appearance. As the largest organ you have, the health of your skin affects your overall health. That is why having an intentional skincare routine is essential (especially during the harsh winter months). 

Many beauty and skincare companies offer effective but usually costly solutions for every skin concern; however, much of your skincare routine relies on simple habits and a healthy lifestyle. 

Here are 6 easy, low-cost ways to keep your skin healthy and glowing all year round. 

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Know your skin type

Creating an effective skincare routine and choosing the right products really depends upon your skin type— normal, oily, dry, combination, or sensitive–and your skin concerns. 

If you are unsure of your skin type, you can perform this simple test to figure it out. Wash your skin with a mild cleanser and do not apply any other products. Wait 30 minutes to an hour, and pay attention to how your skin feels. 

If it feels itchy and tight, you probably have dry skin. If greasy, you have an oily skin type. If it feels tight on your cheeks but oily on your forehead and nose (also known as your T-zone), you are a combination. 

Your skin type will likely change over time and can be affected by changes in your life like age, location, medications, pregnancy, etc. so be sure to reevaluate your needs as needed. 

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‍Wash your face

It seems obvious but regular skin cleansing is vital for maintaining healthy skin. Washing removes dirt, makeup, and other build-up on your face, helps manage the PH levels on the skin, and helps other helpful skincare products properly penetrate and do their jobs well. 

Keep your skin type in mind when choosing the right cleanser. Dermatologist, Dr. Lela Lankerani writes: “If you have dry skin you’ll want to avoid cleansers with high alcohol content. People with oily skin need a cleanser with a lower PH level. For sensitive skin you’ll want a basic cleanser free from heavy fragrance and additives.”¹

It’s best to wash your face with lukewarm water; hot water will strip your skin of its natural oils but cold water won’t give your skin the clean it needs. Pat your face dry with a towel when you finish to keep some moisture on the skin. 

Speaking of washing, you will also want to make sure you keep your makeup and makeup tools like brushes, bags, and sponges clean to avoid the buildup and spread of bacteria and grime.

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‍Eat well

Similarly, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet will also help keep your skin glowing. 

Healthy fats like those found in avocados, nuts, and flaxseed play a particularly important role in protecting your skin from damage. Antioxidant rich foods like fruits and vegetables contain Vitamins like A, C, E that protect and repair skin cells. 

Limiting inflammatory foods will also help ease a host of skin problems and flare ups. 

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‍Reduce stress

Stress levels also play a role in your skin’s appearance and health. Studies have shown both acute and chronic stress can cause skin issues like rashes and hives, as well as exacerbate skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.² 

Finding ways to reduce stress can help manage these conditions. Consider developing a new hobby, limiting your caffeine intake, and exercising regularly to balance the challenges and pressures of everyday life. 

In addition to stress-relief, exercise also offers its own benefits for your skin. Working out increases blood flow throughout the body helping to bring vital oxygen, nutrients, and minerals to the skin. 

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‍Get your beauty sleep

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Your body repairs itself while you sleep so getting a full night’s rest is vital for maintaining your overall health and your good looks. 

Skin makes new collagen when you sleep, which prevents wrinkles and dryness and reduces cortisol levels that may contribute to early aging and acne flares. Sleep also boosts blood flow to your skin which helps to keep your complexion looking youthful and vibrant.  ‍

‍Need help getting a full and restful night of sleep? Check out these tips!

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‍Wear sun protection

Getting outside and into the sun can offer many benefits to your overall health; however, without the proper precautions it can prove damaging to your skin. 

The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can cause early wrinkling, sagging skin, age spots, and even cancer. You can’t really “undo” this damage so you need to take steps to protect your skin from these harmful rays throughout the year. 

Always use sunscreen on exposed skin (yes, even in the winter or on cloudy days). Wear clothing that blocks the sun like a wide-brimmed hat. And limit your time in direct sunlight. 

‍Read more about how to save your skin from damaging UV rays here. 

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