7 Healthy Skin Tips For Your Face
There is so much health and beauty misinformation – especially on places like TikTok. Like, why is everyone putting magnesium on their feet?! Does rosemary oil really work for your hair? So people really out there putting whole scoops of protein powder in their mouths before a workout? (okay maybe the magnesium foot thing may work).
One of our go-to podcast besties is the academic Andrew Huberman, a part Argentinian neuroscientist and professor at Stanford University, who often discusses skin health and appearance in the context of overall wellness, habits, and lifestyle choices. In fact, he has a new podcast episode distilling science-backed research around skin health.
There are 7 things the research points to the healthiest skincare routine, and some basics of healthy skincare – and most of them are tried and true living routines from señoras of our ancestral past, like our abuelas and bisabuelas.
1. Lights On
- Sunlight: Getting moderate exposure to the sun enhance skin health by upping your vitamin D levels, which helps with skin repair and immune function. It also helps regulate circadian rhythms, which can improve overall health and, subsequently, skin appearance.
- Red and Near-Infrared Light Therapy: According to the research he cites, this type of therapy penetrates deep into the skin, enhancing cellular function by activating mitochondria and increasing ATP production. This can lead to improved skin, and possibly even reduced inflammation and oxidative stress. Red light therapy has been shown to help with acne, scars, and overall skin rejuvenation.
PROMO: We’ve been eying this EcoFace Platinum LED mask for red light therapy.
radical señora says: go outside for a 30 min walk every day or at least a few times a week. Go with a bestie, partner, or by yourself and a podcast.
2. It’s All About The Frutas & Verduras
- Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Fruits and vegetables are high in vitamins and antioxidants, and the research shows they may be able to help reduce oxidative stress – all key factors in skin damage.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish and flaxseeds, this can help maintain the skin’s lipid barrier, keeping it nice and hydrated and reducing the risk of inflammatory skin conditions.
PROMO: Get 6 Beverages for $30 at our partner, Pressed Juicery.
radical señora says: Go to the mercado/farmers market and grab a bag full of fresh veggies from local farmers. If you can’t go to a farm stand by the freeway and get some fruit. If you can’t, go to the supermarket and shop for a few minutes in the fruit and veggie aisle, not in the middle aisle.
3. Water All Day Long
Saying this is like beating a dead piranha, but maintaining adequate hydration is so incredibly important for skin health. Proper hydration helps keep the skin supple, reduces dryness, and improves its ability to heal and renew. Drink up! (just not the alcohol kind).
radical señora says: find yourself the biggest mug you can find and fill it up first thing when you wake up, and drink it before your morning is finished. That way you’re getting a head start in getting your needed water for the day.
4. Get Your ZZZs
Huberman says that sufficient, quality sleep is critical in maintaining healthy skin. If you’re not getting good sleep, that will impact your stress levels and inflammation, leading to skin issues such as acne and eczema. Managing stress through mindfulness and relaxation techniques can also improve skin health by reducing cortisol levels, which are linked to skin problems like breakouts and premature aging.
radical señora says: Find a sleep app to help track your sleep. Find out how much deep sleep you’re getting, and how many hours you’re getting each night and set a goal for yourself. You won’t believe how much better you feel after a deep night’s rest.
5. Get Your Sweat On
This is 2024. Working out isn’t about getting hotter or thinner. It’s just good living and keeps you overall healthy in every way – especially the skin. Regular physical activity enhances blood circulation, which delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the skin, promoting healthier skin function and appearance. Exercise also helps reduce stress, which is also bad for your skin.
señora says: after a few weeks of walking, search YouTube for 15 minute weight training sessions, and get your workout on.
6. Mind Your Ingredients
- Retinoids and Antioxidants: Topical retinoids and antioxidants can improve skin cell turnover and reduce signs of aging. These treatments can help mitigate the effects of environmental damage and promote smoother, more even-toned skin.
- Sunscreen: This is a must for the summer months in particular. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen is vital to protect the skin from UV damage, which can lead to premature aging, sunburn, and ups your risk of skin cancer, which is among the worst cancers out there.
7. Choose Your Vitaminas Carefully
Research is showing that certain supplements may support skin health:
- Vitamin C: Known for its antioxidant properties and role in collagen synthesis.
- Vitamin E: Helps protect skin cells from oxidative damage.
- Collagen Supplements: May improve skin elasticity and hydration
Partner: Head to Latina owned Cybele and use code SENORAERA for 20% off everything, to support whole health, skin, hair and body composition.
Watch his latest episode and prepare to re-design your entire AM and PM routine.
Remember: We use affiliate links and may get a portion of purchases. It’s what keeps this blog and newsletter alive.