Are you looking for natural ways to take better care of your skin? When you think of “natural,” plant oils might immediately come to mind because they’ve become quite popular. Plant oils are great, but did you know that a healthy lifestyle can also really improve your skin’s texture? Here are some tips that can change how you take care of your skin naturally.
When you’re stressed or anxious, your whole body feels it, including your skin. Stress can increase your skin’s sensitivity and even lead to acne breakouts because of the hormone cortisol. Here are some ways to manage stress:
Make time to relax and enjoy life. Doing so can lower your blood cortisol levels, which helps keep your skin healthier.
We all know drinking plenty of water is important. The general recommendation is about two liters per day, but did you know that your water intake affects your skin as well? Without enough water, you get dehydrated, which dries out your skin and can make it flaky. Extremely dry skin can crack and become painful. Keeping hydrated helps maintain your skin’s moisture, preventing damage from excessive dryness. Dehydrated skin is more prone to stretching, which can worsen stretch marks. Fortunately, increasing your water intake can help.
Your body needs a variety of nutrients to stay healthy, and your skin is no different. Good fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals are essential for a radiant complexion. Good fats from nuts, seeds, avocados, and fish are important, as well as vitamins like A, C, and E, which protect and heal your skin. Minerals such as zinc and selenium also contribute to skin health. Processed foods might be convenient, but they’re not great for nutrition. For better skin, focus on eating vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains. These foods provide the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and glowing.
While spending time in the sun can be enjoyable, it’s crucial to avoid getting sunburned. Ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight can cause serious skin damage, leading to premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to avoid being out during these hours. If you must be outside, seek shade and wear protective clothing like a wide-brimmed hat, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt to shield against the sun’s rays.
Many plant oils are beneficial for skin care, but they’re often too concentrated to use directly on the skin. Instead, carrier oils like almond, coconut, or olive oil are used as a base for essential oils. Citrus oils like lemon, orange, and lime are helpful in skincare regimens because of their high vitamin C content, which supports collagen and has antioxidant properties. Tea tree oil is soothing and has antifungal and antibacterial qualities, making it effective for conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
Argan oil is well-known for moisturizing without leaving a greasy feeling due to its fatty acids. It’s gentle enough to be used as a carrier oil and contains vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Combined with vitamin C, it can help strengthen cell walls. Lavender oil, known for its calming properties, can also balance the skin’s oil production, ensuring you stay moisturized without excess greasiness.
A natural skincare routine involves several components: lowering stress to reduce blood cortisol levels, eating nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and protecting your skin from harsh sunlight. Using plant oils can also enhance your skincare regimen. By incorporating these habits, you can maintain healthy, beautiful skin.