Simple steps to HEALTHIER SKIN

Expert advice on coping with skin problems and conditions – and looking years younger!

- TANYA PEAREY

More than half of us have suffered with a skin disease at some point in our lives, according to The British Skin Foundation. And who doesn’t regularly struggle to keep their skin healthy and fresh-looking?

We can’t stop the ageing process but we can help protect our skin and treat common problems, such as psoriasis, eczema, rosacea and acne (including ‘mask-ne’ – acne caused by wearing a face mask).

Everything from our age and genetics, to our diets and the weather can affect our skin. Changing hormones during menopause dry out our skin, a change in seasons can cause flare-ups and your genetic make-up can determine the severity of rosacea. Studies suggest that sufferers are four times more likely to have a family history of the condition.

MOISTURISE REGULARLY

To soothe dryness and prevent flare-ups. ‘Eczema sufferers should be using around 500g – 1kg of emollient cream a week and should be moisturising 2-4 times a day if possible,’ says dermatologist Dr Mary Sommerlad.

What you eat

✣ Cut back on processed foods and follow a Mediterranean-style diet, for skin health and overall wellbeing. ‘Healthy fats like omega 3s from oily fish and monounsaturated fats that we get from avocado and olive oil are particularly good for skin health because they create the barrier to protect our skin and stop it from drying out,’ says dietitian Sophie Medlin.