Taking care of your skin in the Philippines can be quite a challenge. The sun is often too strong, the humidity is high and pollution levels are rising. But with the right knowledge and care regimen, you can achieve glowing, healthy skin all year round.
Here are 11 tips for having healthier skin that will keep you looking great even in the toughest of conditions. From using natural products to visiting a skin care professional, these tips will help you maintain beautiful skin in the Philippines. With the right habits and practices, you can achieve vibrant, youthful-looking skin for years to come.
1. Wear Sunscreen
Taking care of your skin is an important part of building and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. One actionable tip that everyone can do to protect their skin from sun damage is to wear sunscreen every day.
Sunscreen helps shield the harmful ultraviolet rays that can cause premature aging and possibly even lead to some types of skin cancer. It comes in many formulations including creams, lotions, gels, sprays, oils, and sticks, and should be applied liberally on any exposed areas of your skin.
If you are outside for long periods of time or participating in outdoor activities then try to find a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) rating or 15, or much higher as this will provide the most protection against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays.
How to apply sunscreen:
- Apply sunscreen for at least 20 minutes before you go outside.
- Spread it evenly onto all exposed skin, including your neck and ears.
- Re-apply every two hours or after swimming, exercising, or sweating.
2. Get Plenty of Sleep
Taking good care of our skin is essential for a healthy glow, and getting plenty of sleep should be one of the first steps we take. Not only does it help with stress levels but it helps in repairing and regenerating your skin cells, bringing us closer to our aesthetic goals.
Most dermatologists recommend at least seven hours of shut-eye each night as fatigue can lead to wrinkles and inflammation, causing major damage over time to our skin’s health. Schedule enough time in between activities each day to get plenty of rest – you’re worth it!
How sleep affects your skin:
- Gives your skin cells a chance to repair and regenerate.
- Reduces inflammation, helping to improve conditions such as acne.
- Increases the production of human growth hormone which helps maintain collagen levels in the skin.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is one of the best steps you can take to maintain healthy, glowing skin. Water plays a key role in purifying your system, maintaining your electrolyte balance, and keeping your skin firm and supple.
It helps flush toxins out of your body that can lead to breakouts. Aim to drink between 8-10 glasses of water a day – more if you are physically active or live in a warmer climate.
Additionally, you should check the quality of your water, as it’s important to avoid contaminants that could negatively impact your health. Finally, try limiting or avoiding caffeine and alcohol if possible, as these have been shown to contribute to dehydration and unhealthy-looking skin.
Other drinks that can help keep your skin hydrated:
- Coconut water
- Fruit and vegetable smoothies
- Water infused with lemon or lime juice
4. Eat Healthy Foods
Eating lots of healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole grains can help nourish your skin with essential vitamins and minerals. These foods contain antioxidants that help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin A (such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and mangoes) are especially beneficial for skin health as they help promote cell turnover and produce healthy skin cells. Additionally, foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon, avocados, and walnuts) can help reduce inflammation and may even protect against sun damage.
Foods to avoid for healthier skin:
- Fried and processed foods
- Sugary drinks and snacks
- High sodium meals
5. Exercise Regularly
Exercise regularly to take the best possible care of your skin and maintain a natural, healthy glow. Working up a sweat increases circulation and brings more oxygen and nutrients to the outer layers of your skin by helping flush out toxins.
Exercise also allows for better cleansing of pores, as it’s believed that increased perspiration from physical activity can help flush dirt and dead cells from deeper in the epidermis.
Furthermore, exercise has been shown to reduce stress levels, which can lessen the chance of breakouts since stress is one of the leading causes of acne.
A few ideas for exercise for healthier skin:
- Yoga or Pilates
- Running or Jogging
- Swimming or Cycling
6. Cleanse Your Skin Regularly
Cleansing your skin is an important step in maintaining healthy skin, regardless of the climate. A gentle cleanser helps to remove dirt, oils, and other impurities from the surface of your skin that can cause breakouts.
It’s best to use lukewarm water as hot water can strip away essential oils from your face and leave it feeling dry. Try avoiding bars or harsh soaps as these can be too drying for some skins.
How often you should exfoliate:
- For oily or combination skin, exfoliate up to 2-3 times a week.
- For normal skin, exfoliate once a week.
- For dry skin, exfoliate only 1-2 times a month.
7. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
One of the best tips for taking care of your skin is to avoid smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol. Smoking can cause inflammation in the skin, while alcohol consumption dehydrates the body and can irritate sensitive areas.
Both habits create an unfavorable outcome for your skin, affecting its natural balance, and leading to a dry, lackluster complexion and premature aging. To keep your skin looking healthy and glowing, establish healthier habits such as drinking more water, exercising regularly, and eating a nutrient-rich diet.
Focus on avoiding specific triggers that can irritate or damage your skin like cigarette smoke or diets high in sugar or processed foods.
How to quit smoking:
- Set a quit date and tell friends/family
- Throw away cigarettes and lighters
- Make a plan on how to cope with cravings
8. Use Natural Skin Care Products
When it comes to taking care of your skin, using natural products is always a better bet. Natural ingredients are less likely to cause irritation and often have powerful antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage.
In addition, using natural skin care products supports ethical practices and safe manufacturing processes when compared to synthetic or chemical-based alternatives on the market. Look for products that are plant-based, organic, and free from petroleum-derived or artificial fragrances.
A few natural skincare ingredients to look out for:
- Aloe Vera
- Coconut Oil
- Charcoal
- Honey
9. Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation is a great way to remove the top layers of skin cells and reveal healthier, brighter skin beneath. It helps to unclog pores, even out skin tone and texture, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
There are many types of exfoliants available on the market such as scrubs, gels, masks, and peels that can all be used in a regular skin care regimen. However, it’s important to be careful not to over-exfoliate as this can dry out the skin and cause irritation.
How often you should exfoliate:
- For oily or combination skin, exfoliate up to 2-3 times a week.
- For normal skin, exfoliate once a week.
- For dry skin, exfoliate only 1-2 times a month.
10. Incorporate Facial Oils Into Your Routine
Using facial oils is a great way to nourish your skin with essential fatty acids and vitamins. Oils help lock in moisture, reduce inflammation, and provide a protective barrier against environmental damage.
Look for formulas that are lightweight and quickly absorbed into the skin such as argan oil, jojoba oil, rosehip oil, or marula oil. Apply a few drops to your face and massage it into the skin in a circular motion until it’s fully absorbed.
How to use facial oils:
- Cleanse your skin before applying oil.
- Warm 2-3 drops of oil between your palms.
- Gently press the palms of your hands into your face and neck.
- Finish with a light moisturizer if desired.
11. Visit a Skincare Professional Regularly
The most important tip for taking care of your skin is to visit a skincare professional on a regular basis. They can help you create an individualized regimen that addresses your specific needs and can provide advanced treatments such as facials, chemical peels, and laser therapy to help maintain healthy skin.
A professional will also be able to recognize any signs of skin cancer or other medical conditions that may require further evaluation. Make sure to be honest with your skincare professional regarding any changes in your skin so they can provide the best advice and treatments for achieving healthier, more beautiful skin.
When to visit a skincare professional:
- For acne breakouts, it’s best to see a dermatologist right away.
- If you have any concerns about skin cancer or other medical conditions, make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
- Schedule regular check-ups and treatments every 6-12 months. This helps maintain skin health and can even prevent future issues from occurring.
In Conclusion
Taking care of your skin in the Philippines can be a difficult task, but with the right knowledge and practice, you can achieve beautiful, glowing skin all year round.
With these 11 tips for healthier skin, you’ll be well on your way to having a radiant complexion and preventing long-term damage. Start your journey today and get ready to shine!
