Doctor-approved ways to get better skin

Good, healthy skin is what we all aspire to have no matter our age. We check in with the doctors of SW1 Clinic to find out how we can be sure to do the best we can for our skin to get better skin. And we are not talking about stocking your bathroom shelf with a ton of skincare products or investing lots of money in laser treatments and / or facials. Sticking to these basic essentials will be easy on your wallet and a lifestyle change if they aren’t already part of your daily habits.

#1 Sunscreen – all day, every day

Don’t underestimate the far-reaching damage UV rays can do for your skin. Just because it’s a rainy day or you’re cooped up indoors doesn’t mean you should skip sunscreen. UVA rays may be less on a rainy day but there’s still UVB rays to contend with, and UV rays don’t only affect you when you’re outdoors. They can penetrate windows too!

Make it a habit to include sunscreen as part of your skincare routine so you’re applying it no matter the climate or weather conditions, both indoors and outdoors.

#2 Moisturise your skin

It’s a misconception that moisturisers are only meant for dry skin. Even oily and acne-prone skin types need (yes, need) moisturisers. You just need to find a suitable one for your skin type.

Moisturisers lock in moisture, keeping skin supple and hydrated and protected from the elements. It can reduce the chance of your skin developing extreme dryness or oiliness both of which not only harms the skin, it can result in unwanted acne.  

#3 Get enough sleep

A study has found that sleep deprivation can affect one’s appearance – think wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles among other not so desirable effects.

Adequate sleep nightly has a positive roll over effect on your skin. Aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night for a restful, healthy complexion to thank you for.

Read more: 7 reasons why you’ve got puffy eyes and what can help!

#4 Eat healthy

You are what you eat and the state of your skin is a reflection of what you put into your body. Stay away from sugar and processed food to give your skin a detox.

Being conscious of what you eat on a regular basis can have an impact on your skin health. Likewise undesirable effects such as acne and aging skin are a result of an unhealthy diet.

Read more: Banish dry skin with these must-have skincare ingredients

#5 Stay hydrated

The opposite state of hydration can cause unwanted symptoms such as fatigue and digestive issues among others. Keeping your body hydrated can have a positive effect on your health and skin.

Read more: 5 easy ways to hydrate skin, effectively!