November calls to mind many things. From cherished holidays to the last days of fall, it’s a month of thankfulness and preparation for the end of the year. But did you know that November is also Healthy Skin Month? Dr. Perry, like many other medical professionals, uses this time to spread awareness of skin-healthy habits you may not be aware of to ensure people keep their skin as healthy and radiant as the cold, dry reality of winter settles in.

Sunscreen is Crucial

One of the single most important things you can do to protect your skin is wearing sunscreen. Contrary to what most people think, sunscreen is not just for summer. Even as the days get shorter, the sun is still there shining brightly. That’s why you need to make sure you’re protected from the harmful UV rays that can still cause premature skin aging. Whenever you need to venture outside, and especially if you spend a lot of time outside, don’t forget to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to your face, neck, and even hands to protect your skin.

Eat Well

When it comes to great skin care, what you put in your body is just as important as anything you apply to the surface. That’s why you need a diet with a focus on balanced nutrition and fresh foods. Eating well isn’t just about losing weight or giving necessary fuel to the body, it’s also about ensuring your skin has what it needs to regenerate new cells on a routine basis.

A good skincare diet is full of fruits and vegetables. Look for fruit that’s in season, which in November can be fruits like apples, plums, and cherries. Combine them with enough high-fiber whole wheat items like bread and brown rice will help keep your system in good order.

Stress Management

Stress is an increasingly widespread problem in our country. Many people find they are subject to varied kinds of stressors and strains each day. It’s important to acknowledge this fact and find ways to manage anxiety and fear. While some people benefit from therapy, employing stress-reducing breathing exercises, reducing the number of stressors you encounter on a daily basis, and finding ways to resolve open conflicts with others.

Your body physically changes when you’re stressed, increasing the levels of cortisol in your body. Cortisol has many harmful effects when it’s constantly at elevated levels, including reducing your body’s focus on creating resilient skin cells on a regular basis. Lowering your stress can have a host of benefits, including your skin quality.

Good Quality Sleep

Getting enough good sleep is vitally important. As the clocks change at the end of Daylight Saving Time, it’s imperative to prepare ahead of time to allow your body to adjust this change. For the best sleep possible, your bedroom should be dark and quiet. It should also have comfortable bedding and minimal distractions. Consider moving your television, cellphone and laptop to another room. Look into blackout curtains or eye masks to reduce the amount of light that hits your eyes even further. Attention to critical details like your sleeping habits will pay off with better looking and feeling skin this month.

Schedule a Consultation

November is a great time to reflect on healthy practices to ensure your skin looks and feels its best and is well protected from the harmful compounds found in the environment. Learn more about your options for the best-looking figure and facial features by calling our office or contacting us online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wendell Perry.