Skin care has grown in popularity around the world.
From dermatologists to celebrities, the importance of skin care, especially for those who have experienced problems with their skin, is being emphasized. Skin is the heaviest and largest organ, making up about 14% percent of a person’s body. Depending on your height and body mass, skin can weigh between 7.5 and 22 pounds and have a surface area of 21.5 square feet.1 Skin makes up a big part of the body and protects us from bacteria and other harmful outside elements. To advocate the need for skin care, the American Academy of Dermatology has designated November as Healthy Skin Month.
At Banyan Treatment Centers Chicago, we understand the importance of skin care, especially for individuals who have suffered from different forms of substance abuse like meth addiction. Meth is one of the many substances that can cause long-term damage to the skin. Individuals suffering from meth addiction or other forms of substance abuse can avoid their effects on the skin by receiving addiction treatment at our rehab facility in Chicago.
About Skin Health Awareness Month
The purpose of National Healthy Skin Month is to promote skin health awareness. Since the 1990s, skin care has slowly increased in popularity. As new products are created to treat skin conditions and maintain skin health, the importance of having a skin care routine has been heavily stressed. During skin health awareness month, people are encouraged to learn more about their skin, what it does for the body, and the different ways to protect it and keep it healthy.
Especially for patients in our meth treatment program, we emphasize the need for skin care to treat and sometimes fully repair the damage substance abuse can have on the skin.
Why Skin Care is Important
When you neglect your skin, you not only increase your risk of developing a skin condition, but you also risk missing a sign of more serious underlying health problems.
Neglecting your skin increases your risk of developing skin conditions including:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Dark under-eye circles
- Sunspots
- Red bumps
- Irritated or swollen eyelids
- Visible veins
- Dark patches
By incorporating skin care into your everyday routine, you can prevent and treat these skin conditions.
Tips for National Healthy Skin Month 2020
We often forget how much our skin protects us and the effect that skin health can have on our inner health, appearance, and mental state. Even if you’ve just found out about skin health awareness month, there are several ways you can participate and improve the health of your skin.
Wear Sunscreen
For decades, dermatologists have stressed the importance of sunscreen. The sun’s UV rays can destroy the melanin in the skin, which protects it from burns. A lack of melanin leaves your skin vulnerable to the sun’s UV rays, increasing the chances of a painful and harmful sunburn.2 By applying sunscreen every day in the morning before going to work or school, you can protect your skin from sun damage.
Gear Up for The Weather
Severe exposure to the sun or cold weather can also cause skin conditions. Depending on the weather in your area, it’s important to wear the appropriate clothing to protect your skin from the harsh weather conditions. Too much sun can burn your skin and cause premature aging, and severe cold can dry out and irritate the skin. Wearing the proper clothing can help you keep your skin healthy.
Watch What You Eat
Your diet is often reflected in your inner health and outer appearance. Greasier and fattier foods are known for causing skin conditions like acne and for producing excess oil in the skin. By drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day, you help your body and skin release toxins that could otherwise cause uncomfortable and harmful health issues. Maintaining a clean diet that includes fruits and vegetables and leaves out greasy foods can help you improve and maintain your skin health.
At Banyan Chicago, we know that there are a lot of things that can cause skin problems. As a drug and alcohol treatment facility, we’ve witnessed firsthand how factors like addiction can lead to poor skin health. Individuals who are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction often suffer from skin conditions. Fortunately, programs like our intensive outpatient program can help these individuals get help to improve their inner and outer health and get sober.
If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol abuse, get help now. Call us at 888-280-4763 to find out more about our various treatments and programs.
Sources & References:
- NCBI- How does skin work?
- NIH- Sun’s effect on the skin
