One of the worst myths when it comes to having beautiful skin is that a tan is a necessity. To most people, tanned skin is indeed appealing, and even cancer research has never been able to fully deter people from desiring that bronzed look in themselves and in others. Over the years, several rumors have started about safe tanning methods which are supposed to give all the advantages of a tan without the harmful effects. It is very important to know, however, that methods such as tanning lamps both commercially and at home still operate by using the same ultraviolet rays that come from the sun, and all the dangers of the natural rays are also inherent to those that are manufactured. Skin cancer, of course, is the most serious problem that arises out of exposure to UV rays. Other problems can also occur. Sun damage cause skin to wrinkle prematurely, and also may make the skin leathery and scaly. If you must have a tan, the safest way that will cause the least amount of damage to your skin is to use a tanning lotion (one that gives the appearance of a tan).
Because none of us can avoid the sun and its impact on our skin, it is also important to take ongoing care of skin by using different methods. Keeping skin moisturized means keeping it healthy, and this will also prevent premature aging. Watch out for beauty products that contain items like “extract of cucumber”. Applying cucumbers (especially to the eyes) is a well-known method of maintaining healthy skin, but it is in fact nothing about the cucumber that helps skin. Instead, it is the amount of water found in cucumbers that helps to hydrate and take care of the skin’s appearance. If you are paying for a lotion that advertises a cucumber extract, then you are paying too much.
Another way in which people damage their skin is by excessive washing. This happens frequently with teenagers who are going through the pain of acne. The fact is, washing too much may make acne worse, and can also be very detrimental to overall skin health in the long run.
Finally, a healthy diet will equal a healthy skin. Make sure your everyday meals include the proper amounts of vitamins known to contribute to healthy skin, such as Vitamin A, C, E, Zinc, Chromium, Riboflavin, Thiamine, Pantothenic Acid, Niacinamide, and Pyroxidine. You can get these vital nutrients through careful planning of your meals or by the inclusion of a multivitamin- make sure to read the label to ensure it contains all of these essential vitamins.
