by Amy L. Parker, L.E.
Taking care of your skin does not always require drastic measures. Our skin is our largest organ. It shields us from the harmful environment we come into contact with every day. Skin care isn’t just about looks; it’s about your health and well-being. Since your skin plays such an important role in protecting your body, you should keep it as healthy as you can.
CLEANSE, TONE, MOISTURIZE PROPERLY
No matter how many hightech gadgets are created, good skin starts and ends with a daily routine that creates the foundation of healthy skin. Cleansing, toning or PH balancing the skin, and moisturizing are key parts of building a healthy foundation for your skin. Aging skin requires a good vitamin A such as Retin A or Retinol. Vitamin C is an excellent source internally as well as externally (topically).
FACIALS
Facials are not only a relaxing indulgence, they can dramatically improve your skin’s appearance. If done properly for your skin type, a facial can make your skin immediately feel moisturized and fresh as the aesthetician purges the skin of toxins and dead cells. Regular facials are key to lasting results and benefits.
Skin needs change with the season, which is why a facial every four to eight weeks or at least every two to three months is recommended. Facials and proper exfoliations can help you maintain a healthy and vibrant complexion.
SKIN CANCER
Skin cancer is one of the most avoidable types of cancer, and one out of five people in the United States will get some sort of skin cancer in their lifetime, statistics state.
UV rays damage skin at a cellular level. Doctors believe that up to 90 percent of skin aging is caused by sun exposure. It’s recommended you use a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher every day. Make sure your SPF has UVA and UVB coverage. If you think you will not be outside and do not need to apply SPF, or if you think you are protected because it is overcast outside, you are incorrect. Driving/riding in the car, walking to check your mailbox, running into the grocery store, all of these activities expose you to harmful UV rays, so make it a good habit to apply sunscreen every morning. If you are planning any outing after your work day, make sure to reapply your sunscreen midday. Wearing hats and protective clothing help, but you should wear your SPF even if your skin is covered, as harmful rays can penetrate hats and clothing.
TREATING THE SKIN FROM THE INSIDE OUT
Hydration is so important. Many people think that if they drink tea or coffee, which is made with water, that they are getting their hydration in that form. Caffeine dehydrates the skin Pure water is the best way to stay hydrated. Without proper water intake, your skin stays dry, dehydrated and crepey in appearance. A common way to check for dehydration is to pinch the skin – if it “tents” and takes a few seconds to return to it’s normal elasticity, then there’s a lack of moisture in the stratum corneum (upper layer of skin). Another downfall of dehydration is its ability to increase oil production. Glands go into overdrive to make up for the lack of moisture, which can lead to clogged and enlarged pores.
Dehydrated skin is different from dry skin. The easy solution for dehydrated skin is to drink more water, preferably 11-15.5 cups per day. Hydration is important on a cellular level. When the body is dehydrated, cells have to work harder to keep building collagen and elastin which are needed for supple skin.
Healthy eating is one of the main keys to good skin. Avoid eating oily foods, processed foods, sugar and junk food. Replace unhealthy oils with healthy oils such as coconut and olive oils. In place of candy bars opt for a low-sugar protein bar. Eating organic bone broth once a day has shown to increase the skin health. Broth is rich in vitamins and gelatin, which help keep your skin smooth and can help you avoid getting stretch marks. These are just a few of the ways to make sure you’re helping your skin from the inside-out.
RESIST THE URGE TO PICK
Skin is resilient, but it also scars easily. Picking and scratching blemishes can cause permanent damage. There are a number of things you can do to improve damage that’s already been done. Chemical peels (light or heavy), specialized facials with a good exfoliation and hydration balance, and laser rejuvenation work well by driving deeper into the skin and correcting damage already caused at the cellular level.
REDUCE STRESS AND INCREASE SLEEP
Make sure to take time out to relax. Prop up your feet and sleep well at night. When you’re tired and stressed, your body produces cortisol, which in turn can create acne, eczema, psoriasis and many other skin conditions. Lack of sleep can cause the skin underneath your eyes to become dark and puffy.
PRODUCTS
With the ever-growing number of product companies and the FDA not regulating over-the-counter products, it’s very important to be your own advocate and consult with a medical professional or aesthetician about what products are right for you. There are so many out there, and it can get overwhelmingly confusing. One thing that is not confusing is that products are a necessity to good skin care. Picking the correct ones for your specific needs are just as important.
Not all skin care routines are the same: Dry skin, oily skin, combination skin, skin disorders such as rosacea, acne, eczema, psoriasis, and many others need specialized formulation to treat the specific condition.
NOT ALL SKIN IS CREATED EQUAL
It is so important to consult with a professional before starting a skin-care regimen. One that works well for your family member or friend may not be the best choice for your skin type.
Amy L. Parker is owner of Modern Dermatology & Aesthetics in Gulfport. (228) 864-8049