Do You Neglect Your Skin?

In today's society, maintaining a healthy, youthful appearance is important both socially and professionally. Luckily, there are many things you can do to counteract environmental damage and aging despite the fact that skin type is largely hereditary.

Proper care of the skin is important to good health as well as to good looks. Skin is the largest organ of the body. It:

• regulates body temperature and blood pressure;
• protects against invasion of bacteria and other environmental pollutants;
• provides the first line of defense of the immune system; and
• is key to the elimination of toxins from the body.      

While health-conscious Americans are careful about diet, exercise, and lifestyle, many neglect their skin. The hectic schedules of today can make the mere thought of shopping for - let alone, following - a skin care regimen seem overwhelming. Here are some tips for making this process less complicated.  

A Healthy Lifestyle is Still Important     

There is more to maintaining the health of the skin than merely selecting and using the appropriate skin care products. A healthy lifestyle is also necessary.

• Eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains.
• Don't smoke.
• Use moderation when consuming fatty or spicy foods, alcohol or caffeine.
• Drink six to eight glasses of water a day.
• Exercise regularly.