While we all dream of having “perfect skin”, the reality is that it doesn’t really exist. And if it’s somehow achieved, it won’t last forever. We live in a highly polluted environment, in which our skin is the first to come in contact with a wide range of damaging factors and most of us are dealing with at least one skin condition. Whether it is acne, oily skin or breakouts, we’ve all experienced some form of skin problem at one point or another.
However, the good news is that taking care of your skin will definitely improve its health and aspect in the long term. For this purpose, the best advice you can follow is the one of dermatologists. They are experts in everything skin-related and they can recommend the best skincare routine.
Although each skincare regimen should be personalized and adapted to your specific type of skin, there are a few general rules that everyone should follow. So, here is what the American Academy of Dermatology recommends.
Always use sunscreen
As ultraviolet (UV) rays are very damaging to the skin, it is important to always put on sunscreen before you leave the house and avoid sun exposure, altogether. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, “when applied correctly, sunscreen protects your skin against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging, like wrinkles and age spots.” Make sure you also use an SPF lip balm or lipstick, as the lips are also exposed to harmful UV rays.
Keep a simple skincare routine
As the saying goes, simple is always better. This is also true for your skincare habits. While there is a wide range of tempting products on the market, promising to rejuvenate your skin and make it look flawless, dermatologists recommend that you should stick to the basics: a cleanser, sunscreen and a moisturizer. Also, it is equally important to choose the right products for you, which take us to the next tip,
Choose the products that are good for your skin type
Another important piece of advice is to make sure you choose the skin care products that are dedicated to your type of skin. For this reason, it is recommended that you should seek the advice of a professional before deciding on a product. The AAD provides a short description for each skin type, to make it easier for you to determine yours:
- “Sensitive skin: May sting or burn after product use
- Normal skin: Clear and not sensitive
- Dry skin: Flaky, itchy or rough
- Combination skin: Dry in some areas and oily in others
- Oily: Shiny and greasy.”
Avoid touching your face
While it might not seem like an important measure, keeping your hands off your face will actually protect it against the germs and dirt you may carry on them. It’s also a piece of good advice for protecting yourself from other threats, like Covid-19 and other viruses with similar ways of transmission.
Maintain a healthy and balanced diet
Many might think that skincare is only about the products we put on our faces. But the truth is that healthy skin is more about what we put inside our bodies than anything else. While a balanced diet can make you feel healthy, it will also make you look healthy, directly impacting your skin health. So, it’s essential that you ensure a sufficient intake of fibers, by eating a lot of fruits and vegetables, as well as a good amount of protein and healthy fats. At the same time, make sure you drink enough water to maintain yourself, and therefore, your skin, well hydrated.
