Healthy, beautiful skin takes time, patience, and commitment. What you put into your skincare routine determines its outcomes. For this reason, it is crucial to create a skincare routine that caters to your skin's need to help encourage healthy skin. Additionally, it is vital to make changes to bad habits and take a good look at your day-to-day lifestyle. Here are a few tips on how to minimize premature aging on the skin:

Protect the Skin

It is necessary to protect the skin every day. Studies have shown that excessive exposure to sunlight ultimately impacts your skin health, and contributes to premature aging on the skin. When the skin becomes exposed to the sun’s harmful UV rays this causes the skin to lose its flexibility and ability to snap back after stretching. Over time, this causes the skin to develop fine lines and wrinkles on the facial area. Applying sunscreen every day before you leave home is a great way to protect the skin.

Equally important, if you plan to remain outside for a long time, another great way to protect the skin is by wearing protective clothing. Protective clothing, such as hats, sunglasses, and scarves are all great items to help shield the skin. Altogether, this limits extreme exposure to sunlight to help promote healthy, youthful skin.

Limit Hot Water

Although hot water may be relaxing after a long, stressful day, it negatively impacts your skin health. Studies have shown that excessive exposure to hot water strips the skin from its natural oils; this causes the skin to become dry and dehydrated, which leads to visible signs of aging on the skin. Research suggests that lukewarm water is best to help preserve the skin’s natural oils and prevent dehydration.

Exfoliate the Skin

Lastly, exfoliation is another great way to reduce premature aging on the skin. When the pores on the skin become clogged, this leads to inflammation, acne, and breakouts on the facial area. Additionally, dirt build-up impacts the skin’s overall appearance, which also contributes to premature aging. Exfoliating the skin helps maintain a healthy pore size while removing dead skin cells from the face. Studies suggest that the average person should exfoliate their skin at least twice a week. Depending on your skin type, this amount can either increase or decrease. All in all, exfoliation helps to brighten the skin’s appearance to help minimize visible signs of aging.