How to Keep Your Skin in Top Shape

COULD YOU GIVE ME A QUICK LESSON ABOUT WHAT OUR SKIN IS MADE OF?

In a nutshell, your skin has three layers.  The very top layer is called the epidermis, this is the skin that you see.  Keratinocytes (which is also the material in hair and nails) make up most of the epidermis.  Melanin is produced in this top layer and it determines how much pigment we have in our skin.  Melanin is also our natural protection from the sun’s UV rays.

The next layer is the dermis and it has collagen and elastin to give your skin its strength and elasticity.  This is where sweat glands, hair follicles, blood vessels, nerve fibers and oil glands live.  Below the dermis is the subcutis which is basically a layer of fat cells.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO BABY AND PROTECT MY SKIN?

All of your skin layers are constantly undergoing renewal and need on-going respect.

Everyday life can take a toll on your skin.  UV, pollution and smoke creates free radicals and destroys your skin cells.  A dry environment then breaks down the surface layer.  Skin is our biggest defense against the outside world.

This is why it’s important to repair damaged cells – with things like vit C serum, antioxidant serums and peptides.  And continue to protect cells with avoiding sun, wearing sunscreen, not smoking and keeping you skin barrier healthy by moisturizing, and not exposing it to harsh chemicals or irritants (like antibacterial soap and cleaning products).

HOW DO I TAKE CARE OF MY SKIN?

Having a regular skin care regimen can make all the difference.

Cleanse:  Washing your face in the evening removes all the dirt, oil, sweat and environmental pollutants from the day.  If these are left on your skin, they can clog pores and make your skin look dull.  What do I look for in a cleanser?  For everyday you should use a gentle non-soap cleanser that is suitable for your skin type.  Basically, the best cleanser is one that doesn’t make your skin feel tight.  I use Epionce Gentle Cleanser (which is sold in doctor’s offices) – but Cereve gentle foaming cleanser is another good brand that’s easy to find at Target or Amazon.  How often?  Once to twice a day.  Washing in the evening is most important. Washing in the morning is something you should do unless you have sensitive/dry skin.  In this case, rinsing with water should do the trick.  Over washing, scrubbing and using harsh soaps can cause skin to get irritated – resulting in dryness, more fine lines and redness.

Exfoliate:   Once to twice a week to remove any dead skin cells.  Be careful with this one… it should be effective yet gentle and respectful.  Choose a pH-neutral exfoliation product, which is perfect for smoothing the skin while respecting its natural balance.  And alpha and beta hydroxy acid cleansers are perfect here.  I use Epionce Lytic Cleanser and love the spa-like tingle it has.  Another good choice is Alba Acnedote Cleanser (sold in drugstores or on-line) – it is great if you like those scrubby particles.

If you are acne prone, don’t pick at your pimples. It’s tempting to do, but popping pimples can lead to more swelling and redness and even scarring.

Moisturize:  Keeping moisture in the skin is important for the barrier of your skin to function at its best.  The type of moisturizer really depends on how much natural oil you have in your skin.  Thicker creams are reserved for those with dry skin.  Whereas thinner lotions or oil-free moisturizers may be better for oilier skin types or those who are acne prone.

Antioxidants and Peptides:  These are beneficial at repairing damaged skin cells and fighting free-radicals (that further damage skin).  They can be used both night and morning if your skin can tolerate them without irritation.  To mention in this section is a retinoid (like Retin-A or  retinol) that should be applied at night.  Retinoids are amazing and can help with collagen production, fight acne and help skin texture.  But be aware that they can make skin sensitive and more prone to sun damage if SPF is not used daily.

Sunscreen:  This needs to be an everyday routine – even if it’s cloudy or cold.  It’s not just sunburn, but chronic sun exposure that causes wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer.  Protecting your skin from the sun is a must.  And don’t forget to reapply.