Girls with Good Skin Never Break These Rules ...

I can’t claim to have the best skin on the planet, but I do wear SPF every day. It protects against the signs of aging and can keep redness at bay. Even if you don’t plan on being outside, you should still wear sunscreen under your makeup. Exposure to UV rays while you drive or sit near a window are also damaging. Bottom line – sunscreen can give you the best looking skin you’ve ever had.

The research on smoking uncovers new dangers all the time. Not only can smoking create deep lines on your face from using your muscles in a repeated manner when you puff, but the toxins in the cigarettes can do a number on your skin. That includes making you look older than you are and leaving you with a dull, lifeless complexion. Never, ever pick up a smoke. If you already do, work with your doctor so you can quit ASAP.

When you exercise, it boosts circulation, which improves oxygen flow to your skin. That results in fewer breakouts and a healthier glow. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest getting at least 30 minutes, most days of the week. Anything that gets your heart pumping works, including running, biking and taking a Zumba class at the local gym.

There was a time when I never exfoliated and that’s a bad thing. Exfoliating your skin on a regular basis helps unclog pores and sweep away any nasty stuff that’s lurking there. The experts recommend exfoliating at least once or twice a week to get rid of dead skin cells, built up product and bacteria on your skin. It’s easy to do and won’t take that much time.

Ladies with perfect skin know that they shouldn’t eat a lot of junk. That means they avoid the drive-thru, don’t eat a bunch of candy or soda and avoid cake, cookies and other junk like that. Of course, you can cheat now and then, but your skin relies on a healthy and well-balanced mix of nutrients to keep it healthy and lovely. Make sure you’re eating a variety of fruits, veggies, lean protein, low-fat dairy foods and whole grains for the best skin you’ve ever had.

This one is so hard! When I have a pimple, it just feels natural to pop it and move on. However, girls with the best skin will tell you that you should just keep your hands off. When you mess around with your breakouts, you run the risk of spreading bacteria, leading to more breakouts. Picking can also leave your with scars that are hard to cover up.

I make an appointment with my dermatologist at least once a year. She gives me a skin cancer check and we talk about any issues I’m having with my skin. If you suffer from recurrent skin issues like acne, you should probably see your skin doctor more often.

What secrets do you have for battling acne?