Many factors may influence our health, and some of these may also determine the appearance of the skin, nails, and hair, and can sometimes be external indicators of our general condition. But, a person's genetic make up does predetermine most of our external appearance, although minor lifestyle adjustments may improve the way we look.

A good healthy diet is important, and this should be well-balanced. Also, adequate fluid intake helps keep the body healthy. Excess alcohol should be avoided, and there is some evidence that too much alcohol can upset skin conditions. Also, both smoking and passive smoking are detrimental to skin, important, since there is evidence that smoking can accelerate skin ageing, particularly in combination with excess sunlight.

Regular use of moisturising agents (what about moisturising agents?) can help keep the skin from drying. Also, excess use of soaps can sometimes cause the skin to become dry, and moisturising agents can help redress the balance.

Excess sun should be avoided, particularly since this can both accelerate skin ageing and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sun protection in summer and adequate use of sunscreens can help reduce the risk of both burning and skin cancer. But, it is important to strike a balance, and like so many things in life, not too much, but a little. Especially, since warm weather can help improve general well-being, and indeed, mood!