In order to understand what skin care means, we have to understand the function of the largest organ in your body, the skin. It covers the body and plays a key role in protecting against infectious agents, germs and drastic water loss. It has its own ecosystem of microorganisms that maintain the balance of healthy skin. There are many types of skin: oily, dry, normal, sensitive. Hygiene of the skin is very important, because unclean skin hosts infectious agents. Keep that in mind and take care of your skin.

Here are some tips for skin care:

Exfoliation. This skin care action can be done in the early morning. It is very helpful for your skin, because it allows your body to eliminate the toxic substances from your body. This action increases blood circulation and enhances lymph node function. It has a positive side-effect, also; the gentle pressure calms the nervous system. To give yourself a dry exfoliation, you need a soft brush, preferably one with natural bristles. Use the brush to rub your skin in a circular motion while it is dry. Rub the skin until it is tingly. This is best done just before showering.

Digestion. Take care of your digestion, because a body that is healthy inside, looks good outside. Almost 98 percent of people with skin problems like acne, psoriasis and rosacea have digestive disorders. Skin care begins with drinking plenty of water, but drinking water is not enough. You have to eat 38 grams of fiber daily, that is recommended by the National Academy of Sciences Food and Nutrition Board. It’s said, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” It works in the skin care case, too.

Exercise. How do you spend your day? How many minutes are you walking? Are you taking a swim every day? Or aerobics? Did you know that inactivity can affect skin? Skin responds to movement and exercise and needs it to stay healthy. It’s recommended that you get some type of exercise every day. Go to the gym, or begin your day with stretching. It is healthy for your skin and your whole body.

Keep away from sugar. Too much sugar can cause premature aging. The sugar we eat is entering our bloodstream, and by glycation, the sugar molecule binds the protein molecule, and this forms the AGEs molecule. These newly formatted molecules harm collagen in the skin. So, when you want nice, young looking skin, avoid sugar.

Fats. Fatty acids are necessary in skin care. Their role is in creating hormones, body chemicals and cell membranes. To have these acids in your diet is essential, because your body does not manufacture them on its own. The two families of fatty acids are Omega 3 and Omega 6. The sources of Omega 3 fatty acids are fish, chia, kiwifruit, perilla, flax, lingonberry, camelina, Purslane, black raspberry, eggs, seal oil. The dietary sources of the  Omega 6 are, poultry, avocado, eggs, cereals, whole-grain breads, nuts, vegetable oils, evening primrose oil, and blackcurrant seed oil.

In addition to exfoliating, eating well, and getting exercise, you skin should be cleansed twice daily with a gentle, natural soap. You should also moisturize with a natural oil when needed. Getting plenty of sleep will help your skin regenerate and help you avoid wrinkles, bags under the eyes, and dark circles.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and is a reflection of your overall health. Taking care of your skin means taking care of yourself.