Dermatologists are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of more than 3,000 diseases and ailments affecting the skin, hair, and nails, including skin cancer, acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Do you ever wonder what skin care methods specialists employ to keep their skin in good shape? In honour of November's National Healthy Skin Month, here are seven skin-care tips physicians prescribe to all of their patients—and use themselves.
However first, take some time to identify and understand your skin type:
1. Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use
2. Normal skin is clear and not sensitive
3. Dry skin is flaky, itchy or rough
4. Oily skin is shiny and greasy
5. Combination skin is dry in some areas and oily in others
Understanding your skin type will help you learn how to take care of your skin and select skin care products that are right for you.
To maintain healthy skin, dermatologists recommend the following tips:
1. Use sunscreen on a regular basis. One of the most important things you can do for your skin is to use sunscreen. Sunscreen protects your skin from the sun's damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays, which cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin ageing, such as wrinkles and age spots, when applied correctly. Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing for the best protection, and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating for the best results. Consider choosing a moisturiser that also contains sunscreen to save time in your skin care routine. However, while sunscreen-containing cosmetics are convenient, remember to reapply them to get the best UV protection. Because no sunscreen can block 100 percent of the sun's UV rays, it's also necessary to seek shade and wear sun-protective clothes when you're outside, such as a light-weight long-sleeved shirt, slacks, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protective eyewear. Choose clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) marking for better sun protection.
2. Stay away from the tanning beds. Tanning beds, like the sun, release UV radiation that causes skin cancer. Even one indoor tanning session can raise your risk of melanoma by 20%, squamous cell carcinoma by 67%, and basal cell carcinoma by 29%. Self-tanning products are a better option if you want that golden shine. Self-tanners look natural when done correctly and won't leave you with orange skin, streaks, or splotches.
3. Reduce the number of steps in your skin-care process. When it comes to skin care, little is more. When you use too many cosmetics, especially anti-aging ones, your skin can become irritated. Focus on the essentials instead, such as a gentle cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturiser. Establish and keep to morning and nightly skin care regimens that are beneficial to your skin.
4. Choose skin care products that are designed just for your skin type. Understanding your skin type will assist you in learning how to care for your skin and selecting the best skin care products for you. As previously stated, here's how to determine and comprehend your skin type:
a. Sensitive skin: May sting or burn after product use
b. Normal skin: Clear and not sensitive
c. Dry skin: Flaky, itchy or rough
d. Combination skin: Dry in some areas and oily in others
e. Oily: Shiny and greasy
5. Treat your lips. Since skin cancer can form on the lips, apply a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outdoors. If your lips feel chapped or dry, apply petroleum jelly for added moisture.
6. Please keep your hands away from your face. You transfer dirt, bacteria, and oil from your hands to your face every time you touch it. Throughout the day, do your best to ignore your skin. Picking, bursting, or squeezing pimples can result in scarring.
7. Examine your skin on a regular basis. Skin cancer is the most frequent cancer in the United States, impacting one in every five people at some point in their lives. Furthermore, melanoma, the worst form of skin cancer, kills almost 20 Americans every day. Skin cancer, including melanoma, is highly treatable when diagnosed early. In reality, those whose melanoma is discovered and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes have a 98 percent five-year survival rate. New spots, spots that are different from other places on your body, or moles that itch, bleed, or change colour should all be checked on a frequent basis, as these are often early warning symptoms of skin cancer. Make an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist if you see any questionable spots.
Because your skin is your body's largest organ, it's critical to look after it. Consult a dermatologist if you have any queries about your skin type or how to care for it.