Regular exercise can help improve the health of your skin

Your skin is the largest organ of your body. Like your other organs, skin has a function and your lifestyle can have a profound effect on it. Regular exercise can help improve the health of your skin as well as the overall health of all other organs in your body.

Before you can appreciate the benefits that regular exercise has on skin, you will need to understand how skin functions. Skin is made up of three layers. Each layer has a different function.

Here is a breakdown of skin layer basics:

  • Outer Layer – Called the epidermis, this is the layer that you see. It contains blood vessels, nerves, oil and sweat glands. The main function is to protect your body from the environment and look beautiful while doing it.
  • Second layer – Called the dermis, this is the thickest layer of your skin. It contains blood vessels, lymph vessels and sweat glands. It also contains collagen and the proteins that keep skin firm. The main function is to regulate body temperature, fight infections, and supply the epidermis with enough blood to stay radiant and supple, so you can look your best.
  • Innermost layer – Called the subcutaneous, is mostly made up of fat and collagen. The function is to protect inner organs and serve as a shock absorber. The thickness of this layer varies from person to person.

When you exercise, you increase blood flow to your epidermis, leaving you with a natural glow that looks beautiful. The blood contains oxygen that nourishes your skin and creates that supple feel that we all want. In addition to increasing blood flow, you are also helping your lymphatic system pump toxins and waste out through your lymph vessels that are in your dermis layer. This helps all of your organs, including your liver (the toxin neutralizer), get rid of toxic waste. If your subcutaneous layer is thicker than you desire, you will also be helping your body remove unwanted fat.

Another benefit of exercise is that it helps relieve stress. Your glowing radiant epidermis will shine even brighter if you are relaxed and happy. The end result will be a happier, healthier, and more beautiful you. Now, get moving!