Glowing, beautiful skin...who doesn't want that!? But skin health is more than just what products and creams we use. That's because our skin is a complex and unique organ, with many important functions, beyond aesthetics and beauty!

Betcha didn’t know that the skin plays many important roles including:

• protecting our internal organs from trauma and contact with external things
• regulates our temperature
• plays an important role as our first defense against infections
• plays an important role in immune surveillance
• protects us from harmful ultraviolet radiation and environmental hazards
• provides sensory information such as touch, pressure, and pain
• and of course, the skin is a way to show beauty and aesthetic appeal

When our skin health is compromised, either from external trauma or internal conflict like an autoimmune disease, there are many downstream effects that can significantly impact someone’s life.

Have you ever had an itchy rash like poison ivy, or an autoimmune disease like psoriasis? What about skin cancer surgery, or a burn? 

If you have, or know someone who has, you realize how this can severely impact someone's quality of life.

Skin health is critical for our general health. Here are my top 5 habits to help you keep your skin healthy, and perfect your skin glow:

 1. Keep your skin well hydrated.

We know how important water is for our general health, but did you know that drinking plenty of fluids is also crucial to our skin’s health? A hydrated skin barrier will keep your skin glowing and protected. Recommended daily fluid intake ranges between 2.7L for women and 3.7L for men. You can also hydrate your skin by using a moisturizer if your skin feels tight, itchy or dry. Dry, cracked skin is damaged and won't glow, so slap some moisturizer on it immediately!

Pro tip- your moisturizer will absorb better on slightly damp skin so be sure to apply immediately after showering or washing.

2. Stay out of the sun!

It's hard to have glowy skin when it's been damaged by ultraviolet radiation! Protecting your skin from the sun will not only help you look and feel better, it will help prevent skin cancers like basal cell carcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and melanomas, to name a few. Look for a broad-based sunscreen with both UVA and UVB coverage. UVA wavelengths are longer and can even penetrate through glass so even if you sit in an office all day, sunscreen is still important. Try to also seek shade and protect your skin with a hat and long sleeves when outdoors.

3. Less is more with skin care.

Stick to fragrance-free products and don't overdo it with creams, serums and potions! Using too many products can actually irritate your skin and cause more harm than good. Talk to a board-certified dermatologist who can help you create a skin care regimen that’s right for you.

4. Maintain a healthy body in general.

A well-balanced diet and exercise will not only improve your physical and mental health, it will also help your skin glow! Just 30 minutes of activity a day can be beneficial both to your body but also your skin. It doesn’t have to be dramatic, a simple walk at lunch or taking the stairs can add up over time.

5. No smoking!

Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is one of the most harmful things you can do to your body. And it doesn’t just affect your lungs. Smoking causes constriction of your blood vessels reducing the flow of oxygen and nutrients to your skin. Smoking accelerates the signs of aging, discolors skin and nails, and of course, can cause cancer. If you are a smoker, talk to your primary care doctor for assistance with smoking cessation. Your body will thank you!

Of course, even with excellent habits, not all skin problems are preventable. Some people have a genetic predisposition to skin disease and automimmune conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and many others. If you have a skin disease, be sure to see a board-certified dermatologist who can treat you with the latest evidenced-based data and treatment recommendations.