Tips on How to Look Healthy & Have Smooth Skin

Looking healthy is priceless.

When you look at someone you may not immediately think, Gee, that person looks healthy. But if they don't look healthy, you notice right away.
One of the first things that tells us whether someone is healthy is body size, as neither those who are too heavy nor too thin look vibrant. Other barometers are hair and skin.
Fortunately, there are ways to find balance in your health and improve your appearance at the same time.

1. Exercise

   • Getting some exercise is a gift to yourself.

     Exercise is one of the best things you can do to give yourself a healthy look, as it not only changes your body composition by cutting down on body fat and building muscle mass, but it improves the appearance of your skin.
     A report published in the Journal of Peer Reviewed Science told of a study where participants looked at photos to determine which subjects looked the healthiest, and the ones whose skin had the most color were chosen. The study concluded that skin color affects attractiveness.
     There is a reason for that: Exercise increases blood flow to the skin, creating a natural, healthy look. It can also thicken the skin, which helps protect it from aging.
     If you are not used to exercise, start by walking, then work your way up to walking briskly for 30 minutes at least five times per week. Doing resistance exercises, such as weightlifting or working with resistance bands, helps build muscle and tone the skin, which is also a great indicator of good health.

   Hair

   • Deep-condition your hair at least once a week.

     Whether you have a lot of hair or none, the key is to look groomed, as nothing can take away from a healthy body and toned, smooth skin like a bad hair day.
     If you are balding and just have patches of hair, keep it neat and trimmed. If you have longer locks, make sure you take the time to condition your hair to prevent the dry, frizzy look that can be translated as "unhealthy."
     Most hair damage comes from the sun and hot styling products, such as hair irons and straighteners. Over-perming or coloring can also damage hair. Take the time once or twice a week to give your hair a hot oil treatment to keep it conditioned and give yourself a scalp massage every time you shampoo.

   Skin

   • Exfoliate the skin for a youthful look.

     As mentioned above, skin tone and coloring is very important in a healthy appearance. Skin texture also plays a role. Smooth skin is a sign of health and vitality, and one of the best ways to get smooth skin is through exfoliation. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, exfoliation gets rid of dead skin cells on the outer layer of skin and makes it appear softer and smoother.
     Products on the market that act as exfoliates contain salicylic or beta-hydroxy acid, and glycolic acid is another common ingredient to look for when selecting an exfoliating product.
     You can also exfoliate your skin at home with simple table sugar. Just add a tablespoon to a palm full of your favorite body wash. Using the palm of your hand, gently rub the mixture over the skin to help loosen and remove dead skin cells. Don't stand directly under the water as you do this, as the sugar will dissolve. Rinse completely when finished, and use as often as you like. You can also add oatmeal or coarse sea salt to a cleanser, but don't use sea salt more than once a week, as it can have a drying effect on skin.
     After your bath or shower, always use a light moisturizer to trap water in the skin. No need for expensive moisturizers, as simple olive, almond or sesame oil will work great.

   Smile

   • Maintain a healthy smile.

     Don't neglect your teeth, because a bright smile makes everyone look healthier. Be sure to brush and floss twice daily, and pay attention to your gums. See your dentist at least every six months for a regular cleaning and to prevent any larger problems from developing.

   Good Nutrition

   • Eating healthy is key to a vibrant look.

     Last but not least, the key to looking healthy and having great skin is good nutrition, as the health that is apparent on the outside of our bodies starts from within. Eating a diet rich in antioxidant fruits and vegetables helps the cells function properly and slows the aging process. Berries, peppers, broccoli, sweet potatoes and leafy greens are a few examples of foods high in antioxidants. See the resource below for a more complete list of antioxidant-rich foods as identified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.