[ Photo by Freepik.com] Here are 5 powerful reasons to give someone a squeeze today Hugging is very comforting. In addition, there is no substitution for that warm feeling of holding someone in your arms (or being held). The coronavirus pandemic evidenced it well when hugs were probably at the top of the list of things you missed the most. The isolation and lack of human connection made quarantining very difficult. We hug when we’re excited, happy, sad, or seeking comfort. Hugging makes us feel good. And it turns out that it makes us healthier too. There’s strong evidence that giving your loved ones an affectionate squeeze can actually be good for your health. So check out 5 health benefits of hugs! Hugs boost your immune system Hugs can make you feel good – and stronger too. Hugging can boost levels of natural killer cells, lymphocytes, immunoglobulins, and other immune-boosting cells. Touching and hugging can also affect our body’s immune response through hormone regulation, includi
As people age, it’s natural to experience thinner, drier skin and an increase in wrinkles and other signs of aging. However, sometimes one’s environment and lifestyle choices can cause the skin to age prematurely. Although there is no way to prevent your skin from aging, dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology say it’s possible to prevent premature skin aging by following a few simple steps.
“Every effective anti-aging skin care plan starts with healthy habits,” says board-certified dermatologist Michele Green, MD, FAAD. “Daily activities, such as protecting your skin from the sun and eating healthy foods, can go a long way in preventing your skin from aging more quickly than it should.”
To prevent premature skin aging, Dr. Green recommends the following tips:
Protect your skin from the sun
Sun exposure plays a major role in premature skin aging. Protect your skin from the sun year-round by seeking shade, wearing sun-protective clothing — including a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UV protection — and applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing. For more effective sun protection, choose clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) number on the label
Apply a facial moisturizer every day
Moisturizer traps water in the skin, giving it a more youthful appearance. To save time in your skin care routine, consider using a moisturizer that contains sunscreen. However, while a moisturizer that contains sunscreen is convenient, remember that sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours when you’re outdoors
Be gentle to your skin
Limit face washing to twice daily and after sweating, and use skin care products labeled “hypoallergenic”, “fragrance free” or “non-comedogenic.” Avoid scrubbing your skin and using skin care products that sting or burn, as irritating your skin can make it look older.
Avoid repetitive facial movements
Like squinting, frowning or holding a straw or cigarette in your mouth, which can cause wrinkles over time. You can reduce this with lifestyle changes, such as wearing sunglasses to avoid squinting outdoors.
Stay out of tanning beds
Just like the sun, tanning beds emit harmful ultraviolet radiation (UV) that can lead to skin cancer and premature skin aging, including wrinkles and age spots. If you want to look tan, use a self-tanner instead.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables may help prevent damage that leads to premature skin aging. In addition, exercising daily can improve circulation and boost the immune system, which may give the skin a more youthful appearance. Avoid smoking, and drink alcohol in moderation, as these are rough on skin.
Consider using a retinol cream
A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is available in many over-the-counter skincare products at doses of up to 2%. When applied daily, a retinol cream can help prevent premature skin aging. However, since it can take time for your skin to adjust to a retinol, dermatologists recommend you start by applying it every other day instead of daily. If you don’t experience any negative side effects after a few weeks — like increased burning or redness — you can start applying the retinol every day. For doses higher than 2%, consult your dermatologist to see if a prescription retinoid cream is right for you.
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“If you’re worried about aging skin, talk to a board-certified dermatologist,” says Dr. Green. “There are plenty of treatments available, including non-invasive procedures, to help smooth wrinkles, tighten skin and improve your complexion.”
To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org/findaderm.
