Top tips for smoother skin

If your skin feels rough to touch, it could be a result of dryness or a buildup of dead skin cells. The skin is meant to restore itself naturally, but age may slow down the process. Some skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis may speed up the accumulation of dead cells, causing bumpy, rough skin. The effects of dry skin may include itching, cracking, and bleeding, leading to a bacterial infection. It's important to note that everyone's skin is different, and that what works for somebody else may irritate the skin. Here are a few tips you can use to achieve smoother skin:

1. How to manage acne

Acne is common among teenagers but may affect persons of all ages. It leaves whiteheads, blackheads, or pimples on the affected area, making it bumpy and rough. Acne may be caused by excess oil production, bacteria, inflammation, or clogged hair follicles. Effective acne medication is available online and over-the-counter, but avoid using it without proper diagnosis and prescription. Acne may persist and cause emotional distress and scars on the skin even after using the medication. Consider consulting a certified dermatologist for medical attention and advice.

2. Regular exfoliation

Exfoliation involves using a tool, chemical, or a granular substance to remove dead skin cells from your skin's surface. If your skin doesn't naturally shed off dead skin, it may cause clogged pores and dry, flaky patches, which can only be prevented through exfoliation. Consider using one exfoliant at a time to avoid damaging your skin, and choose an exfoliant suitable to your skin type.

3. Use the right moisturiser

A rough and dry skin requires moisture to repair itself. Your moisturiser of choice should contain vitamins A and B5 to firm the skin and build moisture levels, vitamin  C, which fights skin damage, and sunscreen to prevent wrinkles and lines. The best time to use a moisturiser is after a bath, exfoliation, or shave and to have it as a part of a daily skincare routine. Avoid using hot water when bathing as it strips your body off of moisture. Pat dry your skin after a bath to lock in moisture. Use mild soaps and consider wearing sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV sun rays. If your skin doesn’t smoothen even after regular use of moisturiser, visit a dermatologist.

4. Get enough sleep

When you sleep, your body repairs itself from the daily stress to prevent premature skin ageing. Lack of sleep causes exhaustion which reflects on the skin in a dry or sunken state. Getting enough daily sleep helps rejuvenate the skin and body.

5. Eat healthy foods

Besides giving you clearer skin, healthy eating helps prevent skin cancers. If you eat food rich in omega-3 fatty acids and healthy oils alongside healthy proteins, your skin's collagen production increases, promoting smoother and suppler skin. Avoid sugary and high-fat foods and eat more fruits and vegetables.

 

Getting and maintaining smoother skin requires a lot of effort. Study your skin to understand what best works for it and consult a dermatologist whenever necessary.