Skin care is the first line of defense against serious health problems

The skin is the largest organ in the body, and evidence suggests a surprisingly strong link between maintaining healthy skin and avoiding age-related conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and dementia.

According to New Scientist, to understand why, we need to examine the structure of the skin.

The skin is made up of three layers: the outer, waterproof epidermis, which is constantly being replenished; the dermis, which lies beneath it, filled with collagen and elastin fibres; and the lower layer of the skin, which is made up of fat and connective tissue and is filled with cavities that help protect the rest of the body from trauma.

The skin and inflammation in the body

Damage to these layers prompts skin cells to pump out inflammatory proteins. In the short term, this leads to more blood flow to the area of ​​injury, which can speed up the healing process.

But if high levels of inflammation are maintained for longer periods, these chemicals can build up and, with the help of the extensive network of blood vessels in the dermis, spread to other organs and damage them.

Mayo Clinic experts recommend basic skin care measures to reduce skin damage.

1. Protect yourself from the sun

Sun protection is one of the most important ways to care for your skin, as exposure to the sun throughout your life accelerates the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and other skin problems.

Using sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing helps enhance this protection.

2. Smoking

Smoking makes the skin look older and plays a role in the formation of wrinkles.

Smoking also constricts the small blood vessels in the outer layers of the skin, which reduces blood flow and makes the skin dull, and depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients that are essential for its health.

Smoking also damages collagen and elastin fibers, which give the skin strength and elasticity.

3. Treat your skin gently

Daily cleansing and shaving can be harsh on the skin.

So it is recommended to use warm water, not hot, in the shower, and not to use strong soaps that strip the skin of oils.

For shaving, it is recommended to apply a gel or shaving cream to soothe.

Patting and moisturizing your skin with moisturizers helps take care of it.

4. Healthy nutrition

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to provide your skin with micronutrients and antioxidants that protect it from damage and help it regenerate.

Some studies suggest that eating foods high in sugar can lead to premature skin aging.

A diet rich in refined carbohydrates that lack nutrients can also speed up aging.

Some research links acne to drinking too much milk or eating too many processed foods that quickly raise blood sugar.

5. Stress management

Severe stress increases skin sensitivity and can lead to acne and other skin conditions.

To reduce stress for skin health:

• Get enough sleep
• Add more movement to your day, such as brisk walking, and try meditation and yoga.
• Make time to do fun things.