From the Guidelines
To get better looking naturally, focus on a holistic approach that includes proper skincare, nutrition, exercise, adequate sleep, and good posture, as this has been shown to support the body's own regenerative processes and promote overall health and appearance. Establishing a consistent skincare routine is crucial, and according to the most recent and highest quality study, bathing with water alone or with a nonsoap cleanser at least 2 to 3 times per week, followed by the application of a bland emollient, can help improve skin hydration and skin barrier function 1.
Key Components of a Holistic Approach
- Skincare: Gentle cleansing and moisturizing, with sun protection using SPF 30+ daily
- Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while staying hydrated with 8-10 glasses of water daily
- Exercise: Regular exercise, including both cardio and strength training for at least 150 minutes weekly, to improve circulation, muscle tone, and overall appearance
- Sleep: 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly to allow the body to repair and regenerate
- Posture: Practicing good posture by keeping shoulders back and spine aligned, which instantly improves appearance
Additional Considerations
- Natural grooming practices like regular haircuts, nail care, and appropriate clothing that fits well and complements your body type can also contribute to a more attractive appearance
- Reducing inflammation, maintaining hormonal balance, and promoting cellular health are key to achieving a healthier and more attractive appearance without resorting to artificial interventions
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreens with a sun-protection factor of 15 or greater to protect against both UV-A and UV-B radiation and reduce the risk for skin cancer and early skin aging 1
From the Research
Natural Ways to Improve Appearance
Some ways to get better looking naturally include:
- Protecting the skin from the sun by using sunscreens with UV filters 2, 3, 4, 5
- Using sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum protection and are suitable for individual skin types and phototypes 3, 5
- Adopting a healthy diet that includes nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats 6
- Staying physically active and meeting aerobic activity guidelines 3
- Getting enough sleep and managing stress to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Sun Protection
Sun protection is essential for preventing skin cancer and aging changes, and can be achieved through:
- Using sunscreens with high SPF and broad-spectrum protection 2, 3, 4, 5
- Wearing protective clothing and seeking shade when spending time outdoors 2
- Avoiding peak sun hours and using sunscreen regularly 3
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet can help to improve appearance by: