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Did you know that your skin is an organ? The skin is actually one huge organ, and changes in your complexion can tell you a lot about your overall health. Healthy skin means a healthy body. Dry, pale, flaky or inflamed skin is a sign that something is wrong. Taking a trip to a dermatologist can help you not just look your best, but feel your best too.
Your Skin Reflects Your Wellbeing
If you look at models and actors, you’ll probably notice that they have a vibrant, healthy glow. Indeed, on occasions when a famous person goes out looking anything less than their best, magazines and newspapers will comment on that and ponder on the wellbeing of the person in question. Achieving that healthy appearance requires more than just cleansing, toning and moisturizing. Yes, famous people have a dermatologist on hand to give them tips for retaining a youthful complexion, but taking care of your body is important too. There are many ways that your skin can reflect your overall health, a few of which we list here:
1) Dry or Itchy Skin
Hot summers and cold, windy winters mean that living in Southlake, TX can play havoc with your complexion. If you’re struggling with dry or itchy skin then it is well worth asking a dermatologist for some tips for how to improve your skincare routine. Dry skin can sometimes be a sign of health issues, however. Eczema is a common condition that is not serious but can be frustrating to deal with. Inflammatory responses to hay fever and even asthma can lead to irritated, dry skin.
2) Acne
Acne is often thought of as a condition that is exclusive to teenagers, but again it can affect almost anyone. Adult acne is something that many women suffer from during stressful times, and even women who did not suffer from acne during puberty sometimes experience it during the menopause. Acne is not a sign of being ‘dirty’, and it is nothing to worry about, but many women find that working with a good dermatologist helps them to get it under control.
3) Scaly Rashes
Dry, raised scaly rashes are sometimes a sign of psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition. Living in Southlake, TX, it’s easy to dismiss the need for constant moisturizing as being a hazard of the combination of wind and humidity, but if you find that your skin is drier than you’re used to, or that your face feels puffy a lot, it may be worth talking to a doctor to rule out any underlying causes for the inflammation.
Psoriasis often appears in unusual places such as around the belly button or on the scalp, so it can sometimes go unnoticed. Some people with psoriasis later develops psoriatic arthritis, which is a condition that affects the small joints, and can also increase your risk of other health issues such as cardiovascular disease. Because of these risks, it is important to pay attention to changes in your skin, and talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
4) Sun Spots
Sun exposure can lead to lines, wrinkles, dry skin and sun spots. Your mom was right when she told you to put sunscreen on every day! Ask a dermatologist and they will tell you that skipping sunscreen is one of the worst things that you can do for your skin’s health, especially if you live in a part of the world that sees a lot of sun! Your skin is resilient and if you start taking care of it you can stop the damage getting worse and work with a dermatologist to smooth out those lines and restore an even complexion, but long-term, it’s your job to protect your skin from those harsh UV rays.
Sunburn is no laughing matter. People who have had sunburn are at greatly increased risk of developing skin cancer. Even if you’ve never actually been burned, however, years of sun exposure (or tanning beds) will take their toll. Ask yourself if it’s worth getting a tan today if the price is looking older than your years in the long term.
5) Greasy Skin
Some people have greasy skin from childhood, some people have ‘combination’ skin with normal or dry areas, and a greasy ‘T-Zone’ around the forehead and nose. It’s common for skin to dry out as you get older. If your skin suddenly becomes greasy, especially around the forehead area, this could be related to issues with your diet or digestive system. A trip to the dermatologist can help you clear up those greasy areas and stop breakouts forming.
With the kind of soulful comfort food that is so popular in Southlake, TX, it’s not uncommon for people to struggle with greasy skin. So, drink water, wear sunscreen, and treat yourself to a good face mask from a friendly dermatologist.
Look Healthy, Feel Healthy
Makeup, masks, and scrubs can hide a multitude of issues with your skin. They are no substitute for taking good care of yourself, though. Pay attention to how you look and feel. If you see moles, spots or marks that crop up suddenly, change in size or appearance, or otherwise don’t seem normal, get them checked out.
Seeing a dermatologist should be a routine thing just like seeing a dentist or doctor. Looking after your skin while you’re still young, fit and healthy will help to keep you that way.
If you’re not happy with how your skin looks, why not book an appointment with your friendly Southlake, TX dermatologist for a check-up? Call Compassion Dermatology today for a skin exam, so that you can look, and feel, your best.