The 5 S's you NEED to manage to promote Healthy Skin

1. Sunscreen

I know, you know this! Wearing sunscreen is one of the best (and easiest) ways to protect your skin's appearance and health at all ages. Used regularly, sunscreen helps prevent sunburn, skin cancer and premature ageing. Another benefit of wearing sunscreen regularly is that it can help your skin achieve an even tone. Sunscreen actually targets skin problems like discolouration and dark spots and can help reduce or fade their appearance over time. Make Sunscreen a part of your daily routine by keeping it with your makeup and skincare products so you don't forget to apply daily. Carrying a smaller bottle in your car is super helpful too!

2. Supplements

I will say it again for those in the back....Beautiful skin, starts within! Many of us are deficient in different areas of our diet due to our fast paced lifestyles. It isn't always possible to hit our target food groups each day and for some of us special diets or not enjoying certain food groups can restrict our bodies receiving these nutrients. Food is our medicine and supplements are not there as a substitute for a healthy diet but they are excellent for filling the gaps in your diet and ensuring you aren't deficient in any areas. We are so lucky to now understand how certain vitamins and compounds can improve skin conditions. Taking these daily supplements can banish breakouts and boost collagen! Make sure you are including a skin supplement specific to your skin needs into your daily routine- Your skin will love you for it!

3. Skincare

Finding the correct skincare routine can seem daunting and expensive! Start simple, find a good quality water based and oil based cleanser and then treat yourself to a serum for your specific skin concern. Then finish with a mid price moisturiser. Moisturiser is the least important item to spend a lot of money on. Opt for good quality acids, serums or treatments rather than creams. Enjoy taking the time each day to cleanse and apply your serums. Give yourself a face massage at the same time and take a few minutes to relax!

4. Sleep

So many of us struggle with sleep and it really is key to not only looking great but feeling great too. A bad nights sleep can affect our mood and productivity for the entire day, so its time to hack your sleep! Create a night time routine, whether that be running a bath, reading a book or applying your skincare. Keeping a bedtime routine is telling your body and mind its time to slow down and start to rest. When its time to get into bed, no blue lights, no phones and no artificial lights. A weighted blanket is a great hack to get a restful nights sleep, I sleep a lot deeper without tossing and turning since buying mine. Look into mouth taping too, it might seem a strange concept but it has many sleep and health benefits.

5. Stress

None of us want to feel stressed, but many of us aren't great at managing our stress levels. Stress leads to inflammation, so if you are already suffering with skin concerns like eczema or acne, stress will NOT be helping!  Did you know that when you're stressed, your body releases 'stress hormones', such as adrenaline and cortisol. They affect different functions, like the flow of blood to your skin. Cortisol causes increased oil production in your skin glands, which can then lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts. Chronic stress leads to constant increased levels of these hormones and can have a negative effect on your skin health overtime. Try downloading a mindful app like 'Headspace'. They have so many tips on meditation and breathing techniques to keep you calm and grounded.