NEW YORK, Dec 30, 2008 / FW/ — Moisturizers, don’t leave home without it! Winter winds and cold temperatures can leave skin screaming for help this season. But, do you know that what you eat and the lifestyle you lead also affects your skin?
A new research, 2008 “Life…supplemented” Healthcare Professionals (HCP) Impact Study revealed that 71% of dermatologists believe a healthy diet, vitamins and other supplements, and regular exercise accompanied by other smart lifestyle choices are just as important for healthy skin.
The study shows two thirds of dermatologists recommend dietary supplements to their patients and the top reason is for healthy skin, hair and nails.
“Many women tend to think short-term and focus solely on the topical approach to healthy skin,” says Jeannette Graf, M.D., a leading skin science expert and advisor to the “Life…supplemented” campaign.
“Lotions and creams are important, but it is even more important to take care of your skin from the inside out. If you’re healthy, your skin will show it — and the best way to stay healthy is to engage in smart lifestyle choices. Start with a healthy diet and supplement with vitamins and regular exercise.”
For example, vitamins A, C and E are key to combating natural aging, and a deficiency in certain Omega-3 fatty acids can often lead to dry and itchy skin. While moisturizers can help, a healthy diet supplemented by appropriate vitamins, minerals and other supplements is part of a long-term effective solution. In fact, 62 percent of dermatologists believe there are gaps in their patients’ diets that could be effectively addressed with dietary supplements.
If all this information sounds confusing, don’t be afraid to ask a doctor for guidance.
And while a well-balanced wellness regimen that includes a healthy diet, vitamins and regular exercise is the foundation for long-term skin health, there are other steps you can take to winterize your skin this season: 1) Shield yourself with an SPF 15 lotion or higher. Just because you aren’t spending as much time outdoors doesn’t mean you’re safe from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays. 2) Wash skin gently. Use warm water and avoid long, hot showers; strong soaps and irritating additives in skin creams. 3) Moisturize regularly to replace moisture lost through the winter elements and to add valuable nutrients to your skin. 4) If you smoke, quit. It accelerates the aging of skin.
For more information: www.lifesupplemented.org.
