Folks say that beauty is just skin deep, and what is on the “inside” is what counts. Skin care is frequently mistaken for merely being an esthetic achievement. More than 500 million photos are associated with the #beauty hashtag on Instagram, but skincare is more than just adding a fresh image to your social media profiles. Do you know your skin is your largest organ, accounting for 10 % to 15 % of your body weight? Your skin reflects your inner health more than just a protective challenge. You must so pay close attention to subtle shifts in skin color and texture because they reveal important information about your overall health. Here are a few example:
• Skin that appears boring or lacks elastic may suggest deficiencies in essential vitamins or thirst ( clean body, for instance, can also be a signal of an omega-3 fatty acid deficiency ). • Most of us know that our skin shows when we are sleep-deprived. Saggy, dark circles under the eyes can be a clue to fatigue. • Our skin reflects oxygen levels and blood flow. Skin that is too pale or excessively red can indicate heart or circulatory issues. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to assess your cardiovascular health if your skin tone drastically changes without another obvious cause. • The cancer you can see is skin cancer. Skin cancers are typically visible, in contrast to internal body cancers. That’s why skin exams are vital at home and with a dermatologist. Our skin has a positive effect on self-confidence and quality of life, and since it plays a crucial role in our health and well-being, daily skincare is essential. Here are our Skin-Smart tips for summer1. Maintain hydration ( both inside and out )!
In summer, our bodies lose more water through sweat. When heat and humidity rise, you need to drink more water. Hydration is essential for both maintaining beautiful skin and overall health because dehydrated skin may appear dry and dull. Drinking plenty of water helps remove toxins, keep skin moisturized, and prevent dry, flaky skin from developing. Bring a water bottle with you. And if plain water gets boring, add in slices of cucumber, lemon, or mint leaves for a refreshing twist. 2. Technology can be used to determine the UV index.
South Africa is included in the national UV index’s “extremely high risk” category. Any weather app allows you to check the UV index on your phone or smartwatch. Take extra precautions, such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ and being mindful of your time in the sun, if the UV index is higher than 6. Your shadow can tell you how exposed you are to UV:
• Your UV exposure will be lower if your shadow is taller than your actual shadow ( in the morning and late afternoon ).
• You are exposed to higher UV radiation levels if your shadow is shorter than your shadow (around midday ). Look for shade and safeguard your skin and eyes. 3. In the sun, the length of time is arbitrary.
Vitamin D is a vital component of the health of your bones and immune system because sunlight is converted into vitamin D by skin cells. However, as South Africans, we must limit our time in the sun due to an extreme UV index rating. Avoid being in direct sunlight during peak sunshine hours – between 10 a. m. and 3 p. m. – and if you have no choice, apply sunscreen, and wear a broad-brimmed hat. Don’t be fooled by cloudy skies. On overcast days, UV damage can still be felt in the shade, underwater, and in the sun. Be cautious when using a pool or the ocean, as sunburn can also happen when you are in the water. 4. Sunscreen is only one aspect of sun protection
86 % of melanomas (skin cancer ) are caused by exposure to UV light from the sun. Because ozone levels have declined and the atmosphere has lost more of its protective filter function, more solar UV radiation has accumulated on the planet’s surface over the past ten years. The global incidence of melanoma continues to increase, and therefore you need to wear clothing and accessories that protect you from the sun, like long sleeves, long pants and high collars, clothing that either has a UPF rating or is densely woven, broad-brimmed hats and good-quality sunglasses. Cover up! 5. Eat the rainbow
Consuming a variety of foods can help you ensure that your skin is nourished with enough vitamins and antioxidants. People lacking B vitamins, like those found in proteins, fruits, and dark leafy greens, are more susceptible to skin rashes. Skin fragility and issues with wound healing are frequently brought on by a vitamin C deficiency. Click here to learn more about vitamins and minerals. Antioxidants are fantastic for skin, especially in the summer. The sun can cause unstable molecules, called free radicals, to damage cells in your skin. But antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and green tea can stabilise those free radicals, so they don’t damage your skin cells. 6. Stop smoking
Smoking contributes to several skin problems, including slow wound healing and skin infections, and increases the risks for certain skin cancers. The destruction of collagen and elastin, the fibers that give your skin strength and elasticity, is caused by chemicals found in tobacco and vape smoke. The foundation of healthy skin is compromised by being present in second-hand smoke. This summer, you can prioritize your skin’s health by focusing on your diet and being sun-smart. If you notice any warning signs, schedule a professional skin examination. Members of the Medshield Medical Scheme receive comprehensive health screenings to spot potential problems early, allowing for prompt intervention. Research on UV radiation and skin protection conducted by the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Dermatology Association. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading! Stay in the know. Here is how to download the Caxton Local News Network app.
Smart beauty advice for the summers
