New York, NY – November 1, 2024 – In honor of National Healthy Skin Month this November, the American Skin Association (ASA) is highlighting key strategies for maintaining healthy skin throughout life. As the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to skin research and education, ASA has introduced seven essential principles to guide individuals in protecting their skin from damage and disease.
Through its Education Council, ASA surveyed over 800 healthcare professionals—including dermatologists, family practitioners, and pediatricians—to determine the most effective strategies for promoting lifelong skin health. These guidelines are designed to help people of all ages make informed decisions about skin care, ultimately improving overall health and quality of life.
The Seven Principles for a Life Course of Healthy Skin include:
Minimize Exposure to UV Light: Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when UV rays are strongest. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, wear protective clothing, and avoid artificial tanning beds entirely.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure regular hydration, exercise, and adequate sleep while avoiding smoking. A healthy lifestyle supports optimal skin function and appearance.
Annual Dermatology Check-Ups: Visit your dermatologist once a year or more frequently if needed. Regular skin exams are crucial for early detection of issues such as skin cancer.
Self-Examine Your Skin Regularly: Conduct daily skin checks and promptly report any concerning changes in skin condition or color to a dermatologist or healthcare provider.
Hydrate Your Skin: Moisturize daily, especially after bathing or showering, to maintain healthy skin hydration and prevent dryness or irritation.
Practice Good Hygiene: Maintain proper hygiene for your skin, hair, and nails to prevent irritation. Use gentle care to avoid damage.
Treat Wounds Properly: Address cuts, scrapes, and blemishes promptly to prevent infection and scarring. Never pick at or squeeze skin imperfections.
“National Healthy Skin Month serves as an important reminder to prioritize skin health at every stage of life,” said Howard P. Milstein, Chair of the American Skin Association. “By following these seven principles, we can help individuals of all ages take proactive steps to care for and protect their skin.”
As part of its ongoing mission, the American Skin Association works with patients, families, healthcare providers, and researchers to combat various skin diseases, including melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. With a particular focus on educating young people, ASA aims to instill healthy skin habits early in life to reduce the risk of serious conditions like skin cancer in the future.
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