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1. Healthy skin starts at the cellular level -

Healthy skin cells lead to healthy skin, so we need to start treating our skin on a cellular level.

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Long-term results -

Understanding how the skin behaves cellularly is the first step to getting great, long-term results.

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Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide -

Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, or NAD, is a chemical compound found in almost every cell. The levels of NAD in our bodies determine the speed of the aging process.

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Signs of aging - As we age, our NAD levels start to decline. This is reflected in our skin through signs of aging, as well as in the rest of our bodies through memory loss and decreased agility.

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Exercise - Luckily there are ways to naturally enhance your NAD. Exercise is one of the best and cheapest ways!

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Mitochondria -

When we exercise, our bodies are forced to produce more mitochondria, which naturally produces more NAD.

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Sunlight -

Overexposure to sunlight can deplete our NAD levels, because our body uses NAD to repair sun-damaged cells.

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Sunlight - Avoiding too much direct sunlight and wearing sun block will help to reduce this risk.

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NAD-boosting food - Foods that boost NAD include cow’s milk, mushrooms, green vegetables, and fish such as tuna, salmon, or sardines.

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Supplements -

A supplement called Nicotinamide Riboside has recently been discovered. It’s a form of Vitamin B3 that is converted into NAD once ingested.

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2. Pay attention to the microbiome -

Our bodies, as well as everything around us, are made up of millions and millions of microbes. All of these living microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeast, play an essential role in our health.

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Healthy microbiome, healthy immune system -

Research to fully understand the microbiome is still ongoing, but so far we know that a healthy microbiome directly impacts the immune system and our ability to block dangerous pathogens.

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Protection -

A healthy microbiome also protects us against environmental aggressors and eases inflammation.

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Unfriendly products -

Many of the products we use on our skin are creating problems for our microbiomes, such as soaps, treatments, and certain creams. Here’s what you can do to avoid this.

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Avoid products that alter pH -

Avoid products with harsh sulfates and surfactants, as they alter the pH of your skin.

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Nourish the good stuff -

Use high quality, natural emollients that help to nourish good bacteria and microbes. In particular, look out for products that have pre-, pro-, or post-biotics in them.

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3. You have to know your skin to treat it -

It’s important to take time with your skin and get to know it. We often rush through our morning routines, quickly splashing on water and cleansers, followed by serums, moisturizers, and makeup.

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Paying attention - Slowing down and paying more attention to the changes in your skin will help to determine the best treatment.

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Intuitive care -

When it flares up, consider what changes may have caused it, such as increased stress, a change in diet, or a change in season.

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Take the time understand -

Take the time to understand your skin and respond accordingly. Rather than only paying attention when something goes wrong, pay attention all the time and give your skin the love it deserves!

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4. Skin has powerful regenerative properties -

On the topic of loving your skin, remember that skin has powerful regenerative properties and is always in a state of renewal and healing.

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Constant change -

Even if you look in the mirror and think you’re having a bad skin day, a good one is coming!

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Healing -

One of our skin’s main functions is to heal wounds, but these wounds can be something as simple as an irritated patch of skin or acne lesions.

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Sending backup -

Your body sends plasma, white blood cells, collagen, and other skin cells to regenerate the area. Be patient with your skin while it’s doing its work.

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Time and patience -

Time and gentle care are all your skin needs to recover.

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5. Mental health and skin are deeply connected -

Mental health and skin health are a two-way street. Emotional distress can affect the way your skin functions, and the way your skin looks can affect the way you feel.

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Skin-brain connection - There is a deep and intricate connection between the skin and the brain. We see this clearly in conditions where stress-related inflammation impacts the skin, such as rosacea, acne, and eczema.

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Stress affects your skin - When you’re stressed out, your body redirects blood and oxygen to the most essential organs like the heart and the lungs. This means that there are less resources left for your skin, leaving it dull.

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Cortisol and aging -

The stress hormone cortisol actually breaks down collagen, which can lead to premature signs of aging and fine lines.

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Take the holistic approach - The main takeaway message is that our skin health is more than skin deep. A holistic approach to skincare is necessary for genuine, long-lasting results.

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The fountain of youth -

If you treat your skin the same way you treat your heart, considering the importance of diet, exercise, and stress management, you’ll find your way to the fountain of youth.

(mindbodygreen) (Springfield Wellness Center)

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What next? - Dry skin is a big problem for many people as the weather turns cold. Check out these tips for keeping your skin healthy and moisturized this winter.

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