November is Healthy Skin Awareness Month

Here’s Why You Want to Celebrate!

Suffering from the onslaught of flu season yet? What if I told you that caring for your skin could help you strengthen your immune system, protecting your health through the cold autumn and winter months? Ah, now you’re listening! Our skin is our body’s largest organ and first line of defense against any external aggressors. Spending a moment to care for your skin ultimately benefits your overall health. And what better time to start than during November, Healthy Skin Awareness Month?!

To celebrate Healthy Skin Awareness Month, sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology, take time to give back to your skin. Here are five ways you can do just that:

• Treat Your Skin. We often think of spa treatments as indulgences and not necessities, especially during the holidays when we’re prone to give to everyone but ourselves. But think of it this way: unhealthy skin is a healthcare concern. Recharge your health before the holiday season gets underway and reserve some time at the spa. Your health, mentally and physically, could depend on it.
• Run the Humidifier. We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again! During the fall and winter months the air is dryer. Couple that with constantly running our heaters, and we get dry, wrinkled sink. Instead of waiting until your skin is irritated and flaky, start using a humidifier while you sleep now. Adding moisture to the air not only soothes skin, but also the eyes and sinuses.
• Switch Up Your Beauty Routine. Fight seasonal dry and inflamed skin before it starts by swapping out your body wash, cleansers and moisturizers for winter-worthy products. You can’t wear the same wardrobe all year-round, so why would it be any different for your skincare regimen? The winter weather sucks the moisture from your skin. Make sure your beauty routine doesn’t add to the problem. Check labels and trash any products with alcohol that will further deplete your skin of moisture.
• Use Softer Fabrics and Detergents. Be particularly careful about the fabrics you put on your skin this winter. Those with sensitive skin can have a negative reaction to certain heavy or synthetic fabrics that people typically wear in the winter. Laundry detergents can also aggravate the skin. If your skin is prone to inflammation in the winter, try switching to a natural detergent.
• Balance Out Your Diet. Replenish the lost moisture in your body by rehydrating with water and eating good fatty foods. Avocados, which contain monounsaturated fat, are a skin-healthy winter choice. Almonds are also packed with omega-3 fatty acids and will help your skin look fuller.

Join us in celebrating Healthy Skin Awareness Month. Because taking the time out to care for your skin isn’t a luxury, isn’t a necessity. Healthy skin equals a healthier you!