Everyone wants healthy, glowing skin, but with so much information out there, it can be hard to know what's best for you. These expert tips from dermatologists provide a solid foundation for a great skincare routine that can benefit almost everyone.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
The most crucial step in any skincare routine is sun protection. It's the closest thing we have to a fountain of youth because it significantly slows down skin aging and is a key factor in skin cancer prevention. Every day, before you go outside, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher that's also water-resistant.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Your overall health is reflected in your skin. To keep it looking its best, consider these lifestyle changes:
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Quit Smoking: Smoking dramatically speeds up how quickly your skin ages and can worsen various skin conditions like psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa. It also delays wound healing.
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Manage Stress: High stress levels can trigger flare-ups of many skin conditions, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. Finding healthy ways to manage stress is not only good for your mind, but for your skin, too.
Build a Smart Skincare Routine
Creating an effective skincare routine doesn't have to be complicated.
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Wash Your Face Gently: Wash your face in the morning to remove dirt and bacteria that accumulate while you sleep, and again before bed to get rid of makeup, smog, and other grime. Always use a gentle touch. Wet your face with warm water, apply a mild cleanser with your fingertips in a circular motion, and rinse completely before patting your face dry with a clean towel. Avoid scrubbing your skin, as this can cause irritation and make existing conditions worse.
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Use the Right Products: To get the most out of your products, make sure they match your skin type—whether it's oily, dry, normal, combination, or sensitive. Using products tailored to your specific needs will help your skin look and feel its best.
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Consider Self-Tanner: If you love a tanned look, opt for a self-tanner instead of tanning in the sun or a tanning bed. Tanning prematurely ages your skin and increases your risk of skin cancer. A self-tanner can give you that sun-kissed glow without the damage.
Monitor Your Skin Health
Skin self-exams are a simple but crucial way to find skin cancer early, when it is most treatable. Check your body for any new or changing spots. If you notice a mole or spot that looks different from the others, or one that changes, itches, or bleeds, don't hesitate to see a dermatologist.
Remember, a board-certified dermatologist is the expert when it comes to skincare. They can help you with anything from diagnosing and treating skin diseases to safely rejuvenating your complexion.
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