How to Have Naturally Great Skin at Any Age

Great skin isn't an accident. While there are medical conditions that can contribute to skin problems, such as acne or psoriasis, that may need to be treated by a doctor, generally taking care of your skin at home can dramatically improve your skin. For those using medical or cosmetic treatments, simple home care can enhance their results. At 36, I have never been guessed at more than 25 even though I don't use any medical treatments or expensive cosmetics, and am asked almost daily to share my "secrets." People are always surprised to find out I do it with no gimmicks, just a few simple steps to more radiant, healthier skin.

-Drink water. Water provides the hydration your skin needs to plump wrinkles and maintain elasticity. Drinking the appropriate amount of water a day can make a difference in your skin in just a week or two.

-Sweat, specifically exercise. Sweat clears your pores, and exercise increases your blood circulation which aids in the removal of dead skin cells and debris. Exercise brings an increased oxygen supply to your entire body, including your skin, helping it heal and rejuvinate faster.

-Eat whole foods. This is probably the most underrated skin improver I've come across. Eating whole, unprocessed foods instead of heavily processed items will improve your skin dramatically. Whole foods contain more of the antioxidants and fatty acids that are so popular in skin care products , and contain less free radicals and other harmful chemicals. Limiting chemicals taken into your body and instead eating foods that provide your system with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients does more for your skin than any lotion or cream ever will.

-Rinse in cold water. Cold water immediately tightens skin, giving a more youthful appearance. It also increases blood circulation, helping to rid your body of cellulite cells and debris, as well as bringing more of that healing oxygen to those areas that need it most.

-Don't be too thin. Fit is beautiful, but losing too much weight can make your skin look older, especially in women. Your skin will look less youthful because there's no fat to "plump out" the wrinkles, and often being too thin also means too few nutrients for your skin to heal itself quickly.

-Eat enough of the right kinds of fat. This sounds contrary to most diet plans, but it really isn't. Good fats, such as olive oils and fats found in nuts and avocados, in moderate quantities can help your skin. Your body needs some fat to rebuild cells, and if you are eating a diet too low in these fats your skin will suffer. For those who aren't vegetarians, fats from butter and milk may be preferable to their substitutes if those alternate items contain trans-fats. Trans-fats should be avoided for many reasons, including dulling the complexion.

-Use a light exfoliant each day. This helps slough exterior dead skin cells, allowing new cells to surface for a brighter complexion. Use a dab on your lips to exfoliate, as well, for a smooth pout.

-Don't over-cleanse. Many people, when they develop acne or a duller complexion, start over-cleansing. This dries the skin, which causes it to produce more sebaceous fluid, which means more acne and a duller complexion. Use a milk exfoliant once or twice a day in gentle circles, and rinse well. You can also use a lighter, non-abrasive skin cleanser instead of your exfoliant every other day, if that works better for your skin.

-Use a good moisturizer with sunscreen, but don't totally eschew the sun. Protecting yourself from sunburn or overexposure will prolong your flawless skin; but, sunlight helps your body use vitamin D. A light moisturizer will keep your skin dewy and hydrated, keeping your skin soft and supple.

-Cut down on the makeup. Go light on daily makeup, which can prevent your skin from breathing and clog pores. More makeup often tends to make women look older, highlighting crow's feet and laugh lines rather than hiding them. Most women really need little more than some light eyeshadow, mascara, a light blush, lipstick or gloss, and a bit of concealer to look their best during the day.

A nice complexion is your best accessory, and it's also one of your longest lasting if cared for properly.