The skin is the body's largest organ. Our protective covering is alive, and its cells are constantly multiplying to replace the shed dead cells. There are many bacteria and fungi (germs) living on our skin. Some of them are helpful and are mostly harmless. When our skin is healthy, there is a balance between the skin cells and the bacteria. A number of causes, such as exposure to chemicals and toxins in our environment, smog and smoke can alter the balance. If your immune system is down, this can lead to disease. The best way to prevent skin disease and reduce its effects is to look after your skin. It will not only look better, but you will feel better too.

Cleansing
You must clean your skin daily to wash away perspiration, grime and dirt. Gentle cleansing is a must for healthy looking skin. Wash your skin with a mild soap and warm water. It is important not to scrub or over wash as this will strip the skin of its naturally formed oils, which replenish it.
For sensitive skin, try to avoid extreme temperatures, hot or cold when showering and cleansing. Don't over stimulate your skin with massaging, rubbing or overcleansing.
Avoid hot and spicy foods, alcohol and smoking. These affect the dilation and constriction of the capillary walls and will worsen sensitivity.

Exercise
Take some outdoor exercise daily. It could be a swim, jog, yoga, basically any activity that will stimulate your circulation. This will bring a glow to your skin.

Rest
Always try to get good nights sleep. Your skin renews itself during sleep and needs time to this job well. The amount of sleep required to maintain good health varies from person to person. Usually 8 hours is average, but only you will know how much sleep you need to feel refreshed.

Diet
If it’s good for you, it's good for your skin. What you consume invariably shows up in your skin. Try to choose a nutritious diet from a varying mix of foods, control your weight, eat more fruit and vegetables, avoid eating too much fat, sugar and salt and limit your consumption of alcohol.

Sun Protection
Although sunlight is essential for our body to produce vitamins, our Australian sun can start to burn our skin in 10 minutes. Sun-damaged skin can lead to early wrinkles and/or sun cancer later in life. After a 5 to 10 minutes in the sun, always wear at least a 15+ broad-spectrum sunscreen. Put on a hat and glasses and try to cover most of your skin. Avoid high exposure to sun between 11am and 2pm. Look for signs of melanoma. If a new mole appears, or a mole changes size, shape or colour consult your doctor.