Good skincare products help your skin retain a natural complexion and glow. But several other factors, such as your lifestyle habits, diet, and personal preferences, also influence the quality of your skin. An imbalance in these can trigger changes that result in premature aging and fine lines and wrinkles developing early on. It can also cause chronic skin disorders. So here are a few healthy habits to get you started on the best skincare routine.

1. Avoid the sun
Of course, it is necessary to get some sunlight and naturally replenish that vitamin D. However, you should avoid getting a tan as overexposure can destroy healthy skin cells. The sun’s harsh UV rays accelerate skin aging and activate the early formation of fine lines and wrinkles. To stay safe, you can use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 or 60, preferably one that is also water-resistant so that the protective layer stays intact after you go skinny dipping.

2. Stop drinking and smoking
Alcohol consumption results in dehydration and removes moisture content from the skin. It can also accelerate skin damage quickly. Smoking has a similar effect as the smoke contains harmful carcinogens that penetrate deep within the skin and destroy collagen and elastin, two essential building blocks of skin cells. Smoking also affects your complexion.

3. Change your diet
Add more fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants to your daily diet. They naturally help maintain your skin’s complexion and reverse the effects of damage due to sun exposure or harmful habits. Fruits like guava, papaya, cantaloupe, and pineapple should form part of your daily intake. Even certain veggies like asparagus and broccoli are loaded with nutrients necessary for skin repair. Also, eliminate foods rich in sugars, preservatives, and additives as these compounds can accelerate skin aging.

4. Mind your expressions
This may sound a bit farfetched, but a repetitive facial expression can make fine lines appear through no fault of yours. For example, frowning or squinting is only made possible by the muscles contracting out of force. This unwanted contraction can compel lines and wrinkles to form as the expression may be repeated several times during the day without you even realizing its adverse effects. As a preventive measure, use a sunglass to avoid repeatedly flinching on a bright day. You can even wear a reading glass to focus better and avoid squinting. These small changes can reduce the need for excess facial muscle spasms.

5. Stay hydrated and exercise
The skin needs moisture to shine and retain its natural texture. So you must drink water at regular intervals and stay hydrated throughout the day. Exercising also helps improve blood circulation throughout the body, allowing fresh oxygenated blood to nourish the skin and giving it a more youthful look. Exercise also boosts immunity, helping the skin cells counter bacterial and viral infections.