Skin happens to be the largest organ of our body which is made up of multiple layers that guard our muscles and underlying organs. Yet we do the least to protect our skin from the surrounding atmosphere.

As most say, ‘beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder’. People pay more attention to ‘face value’ literally, rather than any other aspect of their personality. Healthy skin, therefore, plays a vital role in one’s personality. But with today’s fast paced life, the pollution, the stress, and everyday factors slowly making our skin, and our hair dull and lifeless, scores of beauty products have come into the market to our rescue. A huge variety of skin products are available in the market today, however, care should be taken while selecting a product that is more suitable to your skin type.

During the summer, our skin eliminates body’s waste in the form of sweat. This can lead to further skin problems like acne if not treated or cleansed properly. Similarly, during the winter season, skin can become Dry and rough which causes itching and continuous itching causes painful cracks in the skin (fissures). It is therefore, important to protect our skin exactly the same way it protects us. Let us discover how to have that healthy skin.

How to Determine your skin type:-

Following are the three basic skin types, however, your skin type could be a combination of any two or all the three types mentioned below:-

Oily Skin

An oily skin is shiny, thick and dull. This type of skin is more prone to problems like blackheads, acne and other skin infections because it attracts more dirt as compared to other skin types.

Skin care tips for Oily Skin :-

Cleanse the skin with hot water and soap to prevent the pores from being clogged.

Avoid moisturizing creams especially if your skin is sensitive. Try using mud-masks instead.

Use light cleansing creams or medicated soaps for face wash with hot water as it dissolves skin oil better then cold water. Don’t forget to apply an oil free moisturizer afterwards as it keeps the skin supple.

Massage the facial skin gently in an outward motion during face wash.

Choose cosmetics that are designed especially for the oily skin.

Wash off makeup before going to bed.

Diet for Oily Skin:-

A diet rich in proteins, fresh fruits and green vegetables works wonders for the skin.

Limit intake of sugar, salt and sweet drinks.

Take a balanced diet rich in Vitamin B.

Drink plenty of water.

Avoid use of oil while cooking.

Try and be a vegetarian.

Dry Skin

A dry skin looks dried and feels tight especially after washing. This type of skin is quite sensitive to the surrounding atmosphere and responds to it by tightening up. It is less likely to develop problems like acne, however, it may easily form flakes or cracks if proper care is not taken.

Skin care tips for Dry Skin:-

Moisturize your skin everyday with a suitable moisturizer.

Avoid toners that contain alcohol.

Use warm water to cleanse the skin.

Limit Bathing as it depletes the skin of essential oils.

Moisturize your skin after bath.

Choose natural fabrics such as cotton.

Limit the use soaps and use moisturizing face wash instead.

Apply Aloe Vera gel as it helps to remove dead skin cells.

Diet for Dry Skin:-

A balanced diet rich in protein helps your skin considerably.

Include items like Garlic, nuts, eggs in your daily diet.

Healthy green salad full of green leafy vegetables is a great idea.

Drink plenty of water every day to keep your skin young and beautiful. The water nourishes and cleans the skin from inside out.

Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks.

Avoid fried stuff.

Combination Skin:-

This skin type is a combination of both Dry and Oily skin. Most of us have this skin type. Skin is oily over the nose, forehead and chin while dryness prevails around the eyes, mouth and cheeks.

Skin care tips and Diet for Combination Skin:-

Since this skin type is a combination of both Dry and Oily Skin, hence, it should be treated with remedies discussed for both Oily and Dry skin types as discussed above. Same goes for the diet, a balanced diet rich in protein and Vitamin B works wonders along with other tips discussed above.

Home Remedies for that Healthy Skin:-

Acne: - Mix ½ teaspoon each of turmeric and sandal powder in 1 teaspoon water and apply.

To Improve Complexion: - Mix equal quantities of almond oil & honey and apply gently on the face.

Dull and Lifeless Skin :- Mix equal quantities of green gram, besan and turmeric powder and use it as a substitute for soap.

Unwanted Hair and Dull Complexion :- Apply a fine paste of turmeric on the skin frequently.

Skin Infections in between the toes:- Grind equal quantities of turmeric and chebulic myrobalan and apply the paste on the infected area.

Uneven black patches on the face :- Make a paste of gingerly oil, milk, turmeric, cumin and black cumin of equal quantities and apply frequently.

Apart from the tips mentioned above, a good eight hours of sleep, an exercise program to keep the circulation going, which brings glow to the face, is as important. Exercises like Yoga, Aerobics & Tai-chi not only tone up the body but also regulate positive energy while calming the mind. A happy mind is a happy body and vice versa. Laughter and humor are important to keep the mind happy and relaxed which ultimately leads to a healthy skin.

So a combination of several factors put together goes into making a Healthy Skin. So go ahead, enjoy life to the fullest, be beautiful from inside and out, and most importantly be Happy.