8 Tips for healthy skin

Drink plenty of water

Most people know about the benefits of drinking water for general health. Water also is also a crucial part of keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. If your skin is dry and dull, try increasing your intake of water as well as using a moisturizer regularly. If you exercise a lot or live in dry climate, you may need more than the recommended eight glasses of water per day. Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can leave you dehydrated.

Exercise regularly

Exercise is important to keep your body fit, but it's also great for your skin. Cardiovascular exercise keeps skin-loving nutrients circulating through your bloodstream. Eating a balanced diet of lean meat, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and good fats does wonders, too.

Eat foods rich in essential fatty acids

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are very important in maintaining skin's health. They support skin structure and reduce inflammation. Most Americans get plenty of Omega-6 (found in processed food, red meat and eggs) but not enough Omega-3 (found in cold-water fish such as salmon, sardines and tuna, as well as flaxseed and nuts). Try to integrate foods rich in Omega-3 into your regular diet.

Use the right skincare products

Your skin is the body's primary protector against toxins and germs. If your skin is healthy, then it's able to provide better protection -- so use caution when choosing skincare and haircare products. Detergents, petrochemicals, fragrances and other ingredients can clog pores, cause irritation and damage your skin. Look for cleansers, moisturizers, cosmetics and other skincare products that use natural and botanical ingredients rather than harsh chemicals.

Protect yourself from the sun

The UV rays of the sun can cause premature aging, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, discolorations and even skin cancer. Protect your skin with a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. If you are going to be in direct sunlight, wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your scalp and eyes as well.

Get quality sleep

Your skin needs time to repair itself. Make sure to get an adequate amount of quality sleep. Most adults need seven to eight hours a night, but the time varies tremendously from person to person. Test yourself a few nights in a row by sleeping until you wake up naturally -- then shoot for what you discover to be your optimum amount. Sufficient sleep also can help you avoid stress, which can cause breakouts, inflammation and other skin problems.

Avoid cigarette smoke and pollutants

Studies show that the skin of cigarette smokers ages more than twice as fast as that of non-smokers. Smoking dehydrates your skin and depletes it of essential nutrients. Air pollution can cause similar problems, as well. Detoxify your skin by quitting smoking and limiting exposure to secondhand smoke and other pollutants.

Fight free radicals with antioxidants

Free radicals result from the exposure to sun, smoke and pollution. They can cause inflammation and cellular damage to the collagen -- a main component of the connective tissue that keeps skin firm and wrinkle free. The antidote? Antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C and E, found in brightly colored fruits, berries, vegetables and some legumes. Eat foods rich in antioxidants and take supplements as necessary.

moisturize your skin

Water crosses our cell membranes two ways: By diffusing through the lipid bilayer and via aquaporins, your skin's natural gateways that let water flow into millions of thirsty cells. For products that moisturize where you need it, keep an eye out for brands such as Pantene, Olay, Cover Girl and Secret.