The skin is our largest organ and it’s important to treat it with care. It prevents dehydration, keeps harmful  microbes out, thus preventing infections, and contains nerve endings that help us feel things like heat, cold, and pain. Our skin helps keep our body temperature even and even makes vitamin D when the sun shines on it. Pretty impressive, right? So in recognition of National Healthy Skin Month, I decided to share my top four skin care tips that I incorporate into my daily skin care routine. Check them out below!

Nourish

It’s true. You are what you eat. As with anything in life, what you put into something is what you get out of it. The same goes with diet and your skin. Eating foods that are high in essential fatty acids help to not only nourish the body but protect and nourish the skin. Essential fatty acids decrease inflammation and firm the skin by activating the proteins needed for collagen synthesis and build healthy skin cells. So start munching on the foods below for more firm, healthy skin!

• Hemp
• Flax
• Walnuts
• Almonds
• Dark green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach
• Olive oil
• Whole grain foods

Cleanse, Cleanse, Cleanse

I have to admit, washing my face at the end of the day, when I am utterly exhausted, is usually the last thing on my to-do list. But removing the dirt and grime of the day not only feels amazing but is extremely beneficial for our skin too. While we sleep, our body repairs the damage done to our skin throughout the day. While it’s true that not washing your face at the end of the day won’t slow this repairing process, it does help to prevent breakouts (from dirty pillows) and also allows your night-time products to work better.

Exfoliate

One of my absolute favorite parts of my skincare routine is exfoliation. I have to admit, I am addicted. The look and feel of my skin after exfoliation is indescribable. Plus, exfoliation preps your skin for the products that follow. Removing the upper layer of dry, dead skin cells not only softens and brightens the skin, but allows follow-up products to penetrate better. So following up exfoliation with a vitamin C serum or a moisturizer is a win-win step in daily skincare.

Protect

After cleansing, and especially after exfoliation, it’s so important to protect your skin. Applying a paraben-free moisturizer, as is protecting it with a broad spectrum SPF (SPF 30 or higher), is the best way to keep youthful skin. Generously slather both products (or a combination moisturizer/SPF) on face, neck and ears to prevent sun damage and premature aging. And remember, when outdoors for extended periods of time to reapply!

We would love to hear from you! Tell us you favorite part of your skincare routine in the comments below!

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