Dr. Barbara Sturm's Tips for Anti-Inflammatory Living Inside and Out

What are some common sources of inflammation? 
We are bombarded every day with inflammatory influences, from harsh skincare ingredients and treatments such as acid peels and lasers, to UVA and UVB rays, stress, pollution, allergens, HEV rays, smoking, drinking, and sugar and pro-inflammatory foods.

How does inflammation affect the skin? What about other areas of the body?
Inflammation is at the root of virtually every skin and health disease. The body’s response to irritation and injury must be recognized as a primary trigger for acne, premature aging, redness, enlarged pores, and other dysfunctions including psoriasis, rosacea, and perioral dermatitis. Chronic inflammation is a sustained inflammatory response within the skin that is mediated by the immune system and destroys healthy tissue.

What are some ways to combat inflammation through skincare?
Healthy skin cells should be nurtured rather than destroyed, and inflammation and its triggers must be avoided. A healing approach is what’s needed to promote healthy, youthful, glowing skin. The ingredient science in my Molecular Skincare collection works to combat inflammation-mediated oxidation and to provide protection of skin barrier function, hydration, nutrition and skin healing.

What are some ways to combat inflammation in other aspects of your life?
An anti-inflammatory lifestyle extends beyond skincare to movement, sleep, mental health, and nutrition. I recommend eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fatty fish, avocados, broccoli, and green leafy vegetables, and avoiding inflammatory substances such as alcohol, sugar, excessive salt, and processed or fried foods. It’s also imperative that you prioritize a good night’s sleep (I’m in bed by 9PM most evenings), enjoy daily exercise, and reduce stress through techniques such as meditation.