We’ve heard the word ‘immunity’ a lot lately.
But did you know that your skin has its own immune system, too?
Your skin is the largest organ in your body. It’s made up of several different types of immune cells, all of which play a part in defending your body from illness and disease. Every day, your skin fights against bacteria, viruses, pollution, toxins, UV rays and other environmental threats to your health.
Not surprisingly, these stresses can take quite a toll on your skin health. Over time, they can cause the biological barrier function of your skin to deteriorate, speeding up the ageing process.
The speed at which your skin ages may also be increased by spending a lot of time outdoors, using sun beds, or harsh soaps or cosmetics.
And that’s just the beginning! Skin is also constantly affected by everything that goes on inside you: the food you eat, mental stress, medication you're taking, the amount of exercise you get, how much water you drink, and so on.
Not surprisingly, all of this can make your skin look tired or dull - especially when you’ve been feeling a little run-down, or if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
It’s important to pay attention to how your skin looks as it can say a lot about your overall health. It’s usually one of the first signs that all isn’t well within.
How your skin can show signs of ill health
- Eczema/atopic dermatitis
Dry, itchy, red patches of skin can be caused by a range of issues, such as allergies, sensitivities, genetics, environmental triggers, and stress.
- Dullness
Dry, dull skin can be a sign of dehydration, poor diet, lack of sleep, and stress.
- Dark patches (hyperpigmentation)
Spending too much time in the sun can cause UVA rays to stimulate an increase in melanin production, resulting in patches of darkened skin.
- Broken capillaries
Spidery veins on the around the nose, cheeks and chin may be caused by hormones, sun exposure, smoking, alcohol, and… yep, stress!
Good news: there are lots of ways to improve your skin’s immunity so that it can keep protecting you (and look good, too!)
Here’s how to keep your skin’s immune system as strong as possible
- Eat a healthy diet
What goes into your body will show on your skin - it’s as simple as that. Skin cells are constantly undergoing a process of being shed and replaced by new cells. This requires a steady supply of key nutrients. Eating a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats is the best way to keep your skin healthy from the inside out.
- Fill up on water
Water is the main component of cells and tissues: it makes up about 75% of your body! Hydration is key to keeping your skin cells moist and supple. Water also allows cells to flush out toxins and other impurities.
Aim to drink at least 2-3 litres of fresh filtered water each day to keep your skin looking its best.
- Wear sun protection every day
Sunscreen is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect the health of your skin. During summer, sunscreen is an absolute must to prevent sunburn - but it’s important in winter, too! Sunscreen shields your skin from harmful UV rays, premature ageing, and skin cancer. Choose a daily sunscreen or moisturiser with an SPF of at least 30+.
- Take Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is the “superhero” of antioxidants. It’s a carotenoid found in a special kind of algae, and it has a free radical-fighting capacity around 6000 times more powerful than Vitamin C.
Astaxanthin is especially powerful when it comes to protecting skin from UV-rays. Studies have shown that taking Astaxanthin helps to prevent UV-induced photo-aging. It is also shown to reduce dryness and moisture loss in the skin caused by UV exposure, and can even help in the repair of DNA after skin cells have been exposed to UV radiation. This has led scientists to suggest that Astaxanthin is especially valuable for maintaining healthy skin in climates affected by high UV levels.
Further research has found that Astaxanthin nourishes every layer of the skin, and taking it for just six weeks can improve elasticity and moisture content while reducing Crow's feet and wrinkles!
Need to know more about how Astaxanthin can save your skin? Check out Asta Supreme. They have a range of Astaxanthin supplements designed to support not only your skin but joints, brain, eyes, and overall health. It could be the best thing you’ll ever do for your skin, immunity, and, well, your life!
