There are many ways to keep your skin youthful and healthy. At OZNaturals, we think these are 10 of the most important natural beauty tips:

1. Wear sunscreen: Skin care experts and dermatologists are in complete agreement on this one. The majority of damage and signs of aging are caused by exposure to sunlight, making daily sunscreen mandatory for anyone concerned with keeping their skin healthy and looking it’s best. But not all sunscreens are created equal. A broad-spectrum SPF30 natural sunscreen with zinc oxide is ideal, and much healthier for the skin than non mineral-based formulas.

   It’s also important to use enough sunscreen. Many people who think they are very good about sun protection are shocked to find out that the amount of sunscreen they are using is not enough to adequately do the job. You need to use a full ounce (the size of a shot glass) for your entire body. Apply 30 minutes before you go outside and every two hours if you swim or sweat. That means that you should go through a six ounce bottle of sunscreen every two days on your next beach vacation! And it should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway – NEVER use a tanning bed.

2. Use natural skincare products: There’s no reason to expose yourself to parabens, phthalates or petrochemicals to find effective skincare products. Parabens in particular are widely used as preservatives in a variety of personal care products. It’s estimated that between 70% and 85% of all cosmetics on the market contain them. Parabens are known to be xenoestrogens -- that is, they mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. While the scientific community is divided into whether they pose a threat, there is no question that parabens are active ingredients that are absorbed into our skin. Because many brands don’t disclose all of their ingredients, you may have no way of knowing they are there. If all ingredients are shown, parabens may be listed as butylparaben, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben or propylparaben.

   Petroleum-based chemicals may be listed in skin care ingredients as mineral oil or petrolatum. These petrochemicals are readily absorbed by the skin, and once they’re there they never leave. Researchers have found that mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons stay in the body and accumulate over time. When you factor in that these may also be carcinogenic, you see why you would want to avoid products which contain them and prioritize your skin health.

   OZNaturals products are formulated to be gentle, safe and extremely effective –without potentially harmful synthetic chemicals. In addition, you can feel good knowing you are doing the right thing for your health and the planet.

3. Get enough sleep: Sleep is absolutely vital to great-looking skin. When we sleep, regeneration occurs at a cellular level throughout the body, including the skin. There are several things you can do to get started on a great beauty sleep habit. For starters, aim for seven to nine hours a night – every night. The body needs that much time for cellular regeneration. During the first three hours, the body produces human growth hormone, which is vital for collagen production. As you shift into REM sleep, melatonin production increases. Melatonin is a hormone which is also an important skin-protecting antioxidant. During your last three hours of sleep, skin temperature drops and muscles relax, allowing for additional repair and recovery. It all adds up to eight important hours.

   Try to establish a schedule of going to bed at the same time every night, and unplug from your electronic devices for an hour or two before turning in. Establishing a soothing bedtime ritual such as taking a bath or reading can also contribute to a good night’s sleep.

4. Drink water: Water flushes toxins out of the body, allows our cells to absorb nutrients, and keeps our digestive processes moving smoothly. All of these things have a major effect on how your skin looks and feels. While most sources of liquids help with hydration, it’s best to drink plain, pure water. This is nature’s best source of hydration for your body. If you’re looking for tips for glowing face creams, water is a necessary addition. The combination of h20 and natural skin care products will leave your skin feeling bright and flawless.

   So, how much water should you be drinking? There’s been quite a bit of debate about that over the last 10 years. While the old estimate of eight 8-oz glasses a day is no longer considered a hard and fast rule, you may actually need more than that. In 2004, the Institute of Medicine issued new guidelines recommending a total fluid intake of 91 ounces for women and 125 ounces a day for men. You should expect to increase that if you exercise or work in hot conditions.

   The key is to make adequate water intake and optimal hydration a daily habit. Stay consistent, and you’ll notice the results in a matter of weeks, or even days. Your body’s digestion and circulation will improve, nutrients will properly absorb and toxins will be flushed out of the body, resulting in clearer, more luminous skin.

5. Exfoliate at least twice a week: Proper exfoliation is one of the most effective facial tips you can take to see a noticeable improvement in your skin. Perhaps the most satisfying thing about proper exfoliation is the instant payoff. Skin immediately feels smoother and looks brighter, but important long-term benefits also keep accruing.

   Exfoliation works by removing built-up dead skin cells, revealing new skin. Our skin naturally sheds millions of dead cells every day, allowing newer cells to travel to the surface to replace them. Aging and sun damage can slow the rate at which natural exfoliation occurs, allowing a build-up of dead skin cells to accumulate. The results can take the form of breakouts, blackheads, clogged pores and dull, lifeless looking skin.

   By gently removing these excess dead cells, the skin’s appearance and health is improved. In addition, the removal of the dead cells speeds the skin’s renewal process and allows younger, healthier skin cells to take their place. One of the biggest payoffs to exfoliation is that serums and other skin care products are better absorbed, work more effectively, and produce even more beautiful results. Exfoliation is beneficial for all skin types, from oily to dry, breakout-prone to sensitive.

6. Establish a skin care regimen and stick to it. In reality, it’s not difficult, costly, or confusing to get great results from a relatively simple skin care regimen. What it does take is consistency. While many products, including OZNaturals, will yield immediate subtle improvements in skin tone and resiliency, the biggest benefits come with regular, long-term usage. Learn how to take care of face and repeat your routine daily.

   Start with a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser to remove daily dirt, pollutants and excess oil. OZNaturals Vitamin C Cleanser is a great choice since it also contains antioxidants to help restore the skin. A good toner can deliver antioxidants, and other skin perfecting ingredients, prep skin, and increase the efficacy of the serums and moisturizers applied next. Choose an alcohol-free formula such as OZNaturals Ocean Mineral Tonic.

   Consider adding a serum to deliver additional antioxidants and other anti-aging active ingredients. All skin types can benefit from a Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Hyaluronic Acid draws water into the skin, restoring elasticity and helping diminish fine lines. Even oily and acne prone skin will benefit, since it naturally balances moisture levels.

   Using a moisturizer with retinol is an extremely beneficial step for anyone concerned about wrinkles, skin texture, pore size or brown spots. This form of Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant, and one of the most thoroughly researched skin care ingredients available. The delicate area around the eyes can also benefit from special treatment. Puffiness, bags, dark circles, and wrinkles are all common complaints which can be addressed with OZ Natural’s Super Youth Eye Gel. Formulated to be used day and night, this versatile product also serves as a wonderful primer for eye makeup.

   Your beauty ritual can be as unique as you are. The key is to select high quality products, with active ingredients that address the skin issues that concern you.

7. Eat a clean diet rich in antioxidants: We’ve all heard the expression: You are what you eat. Well, it’s absolutely true. Foods can be a powerful weapon in the war against aging, sun damage, and other skin conditions. Avoiding processed foods and eating a healthy diet rich in antioxidants can improve both your health and appearance. Blueberries, salmon, spinach, sweet potatoes and green tea are all great dietary sources of antioxidants, which limit cellular damage to skin caused by free radicals.

   Think you have to give up everything fun in your quest for an antioxidant rich diet? Not true!. The antioxidants in cocoa and dark chocolate – called flavinols – improve circulation in the skin, and help improve texture and reduce sun damage. For the most antioxidant power, look for pure dark chocolate that is at least 70% cacao. You can also buy raw cacao bits or powder.

   The health benefits of coffee are also becoming increasingly well researched and documented. A 2005 study found that coffee was the number one source of antioxidants in the American diet – primarily because we drink more coffee than we eat fresh fruits and vegetables. It is nonetheless a very rich source of antioxidants which provide anti-aging benefits and protect the health of skin and other organs.

8. Change your pillowcase: You spend 8 hours a night with your head on the pillow. You can help prevent creasing and wrinkles by using a very smooth pillowcase, preferably silk, satin or a very high thread count cotton. As an added bonus, you may notice you have less bedhead in the morning as well. Wash your pillowcase frequently to eliminate contaminating bacteria and to avoid breakouts. Also, be sure to avoid heavily dyed fabrics which irritate sensitive skin.

9. Exercise: Exercise and physical activity deliver oxygen and nourishment to your tissues, and that includes your skin. The oxygenated blood delivers vital nutrients that promotes healthy skin cells, increases collagen production, and helps repair environmental damage. The increased blood circulation that comes with raising your heart rate also boosts detoxification and cell renewal. In addition, it helps flush away free radicals and other waste products, leaving your skin in better shape after your workout than it was before.

   Breaking a sweat also helps regulate hormones, and that also has a positive effect on skin. Our sebaceous glands react to stress hormones which can disrupt the amount of oil the skin produces. For this reason, both acne and eczema sufferers have been shown to benefit from exercise. Lymphatic drainage also improves with exercise, pushing waste out of your system, and alleviating that puffy look that comes with a sedentary lifestyle. A good workout also promotes better sleep -- and we know how important sleep is to looking and feeling your best.

   Be sure to drink plenty of water as you exercise to avoid dehydration, and don’t forget to wear a 30 SPF natural sunscreen when exercising outdoors.

10. Keep your hands away from your face: Our hands are carrying around billions of bacteria at any given time, which can easily get transferred onto our faces. Those bacteria play a huge role in breakouts. Always wash your hands before applying makeup – and never, ever pick at blemishes. By the end of the day, there will always be bacteria, pollutants and other unwanted debris on your face, so never go to bed without washing your face. All of this gunk serves to break down the skin’s natural barrier, and expose it to free radicals and collagen breakdown. Leaving these pollutants in your skin overnight does double damage, by not allowing the skin’s natural repair cycle to work as efficiently.

    Be smart with your lifestyle choices, so that you too can have more youthful, healthier skin!

"Cancer;Dehydration;Digestive Health;Hormones/Endocrine System;Oxidative Stress;Poor Lifesyle Choices;Skin Cancer " "Anti-Inflammatory;Diet/Nutrition;Environment;Fitness;Healthy Choices and Habits;Natural Skincare Regimen;Non-toxic;Self-care;Sleep Habits " "Acneic;Breakouts;Clogged Pores;Dehydrated;Dry;Eczema;Enlarged Pores;Fine Lines and Wrinkles;Hyperpigmentation;Loss of Collagen;Oily;Oxidative Stress;Premature Aging;Puffy Eyes;Sensitive;Skin Cancer;Under-eye Circles;UV Damage " "Caffeine;Retinol;Sodium Hyaluronate;Theobroma Cacao;Zinc Oxide "