The first way to treating and protect your skin is to hydrate it. The skin is the biggest organ in your body. It needs plenty of fluids to keep it youthful and radiant. Be sure to drink at least eight 8oz. glasses of water a day and more in hot weather to stay properly hydrated.

Another way to treat your skin is to wear protective sunscreen and clothing when going out into the sun. This will help shield your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Do not forget to re apply sunscreen if you will be out for longer periods of time. This can greatly reduce your risk of getting skin cancer.

The sun also has a very beneficial effect on your skin in moderation. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, more specifically ultraviolet B radiation; it produces Vitamin D, which is very important in health and wellbeing of your body.

As stated above vitamins play a very big role in treating and protecting your skin. Vitamin C for example is an essential nutrient in the production of collagen. Collagen is one of the thousands of different proteins found in your body. It’s what gives your skin its strength and healthy appearance.

Nutrition is a fabulous way to treat your skin from the inside out. Foods that are known to be good in the production of collagen are very simple to incorporate into your daily routine. Try adding soy products such as soy cheese or soy milk, this can help the skin by blocking the enzymes that normally break down and age your skin.

One more way to treat and protect your skin is to use moisturizing skin care products. Beware that not all skin care products are created equal. It may take time to find the right one for your skin type. Skin care products that are generally good with moisturizing are usually packed with good vitamins and minerals. Always read the labels, and when in doubt just ask. What you do now with your skin can impact how your skin will be in the future.

You are the caretaker of your body. It is never too late to take charge and receive all the benefits of a new more youthful you.

Protecting your skin is not just a way of life… It goes well beyond that. It is also a mind set.

Make each and every day one more day to pamper your body because it’s the only body you will ever get. Be aware and stay proactive in the choices you make.

Harriet Diamond is a founder of www.youthingessentials.com
Photo by David Wang