Taking care of your skin is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Skincare is necessary for preventing and treating any skin problems that we may encounter. The first step to having healthy skin is to keep your skin clean by washing it regularly with a gentle cleanser. Incorporating SPF into your daily routine is also vital to protect your skin from sun damage that can cause aging and skin cancer. Having a beauty sleep of at least 7-8 hours each night aids in restoring your skin’s natural beauty. Additionally, always remember to protect your skin from external factors such as pollution, wind, and dirt by using a suitable moisturizer or wearing protective clothing. By following these tips, you can achieve healthy, radiant skin.

1. Wear protective clothing.

UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) is a rating assigned to clothing that indicates the level of sun protection the fabric provides. Protective clothing rated UPF 50 or higher is recommended for blocking out harmful UV rays.

2. Apply sunscreen daily.

A broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) prevents sunburn and provides an effective layer of protection from skin cancers, such as melanoma.

3. Give your skin a break from sun exposure.

Sun damage from prolonged sun exposure causes the skin to lose its elasticity, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots. When working outdoors, wear sunscreen, and protective clothing, and take frequent breaks in the shade.

4. Moisturize dry skin.

There are a wide variety of skincare products—moisturizers, lotions, and creams—that protect different skin types from dryness. If you have oily skin, look for an oil-free moisturizer to hydrate your skin without adding to the oiliness.

5. Wash your face daily.

Use a gentle, foaming, facial cleanser once or twice a day to remove impurities from the skin’s surface. Avoid using excessively hot water and harsh soaps that will strip your skin of natural oils.

6. Exfoliate your skin weekly.

An exfoliating scrub is great for removing dead skin cells from elbows, knees, and heels, but exfoliate only once a week to avoid irritating your skin.

7. Drink plenty of water.

Water hydrates all of the body’s organs, including the skin. One of the easiest ways to avoid dry skin is to stay well-hydrated.

8. Eat healthy fats.

Healthy fats—such as those found in nuts, avocados, and extra virgin olive oil—contain antioxidants that help keep skin cells healthy. Omega 3 fatty acids— primarily found in fatty fishes such as salmon, mackerel, and herring—can keep the skin supple and moisturized.

9. Take vitamins.

Though you may not associate vitamins with your skincare routine, taking a daily supplement is a simple thing you can do for your skin. Vitamin E protects the skin against free radicals and inflammation. Vitamin C can help brighten your skin tone and increase your skin’s production of collagen and elastin.

10. Get regularly screened by a dermatologist.

Regular screenings by a dermatologist are recommended for those with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. These conditions are characterized by rashes that can become itchy. Scratching can lead to open wounds that can easily become infected and cause the rash to spread. A dermatology professional can provide a diagnosis and topical solutions that can help keep skin conditions in check. Dermatologists can also keep an eye on your skin for signs of skin cancer.

11. Avoid smoking.

Smoking shrinks the blood vessels in the outer layer of the skin, which decreases blood flow to the skin. This makes skin look paler and deprives it of essential nutrients.