Taking good care of your skin should be a lifelong habit. Protecting your skin from damage and nourishing it from the inside are a few steps to a healthy complexion. Knowing what to avoid is equally important. If you develop skin issues, it is a good idea to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist who is experienced in conditions affecting the skin. Here is what you should and should not be doing.
1. DO Avoid Prolonged and Direct Contact with the Sun
Exposing your skin to the sun may eventually lead to wrinkles and premature aging. More alarmingly is the increased risk of skin cancer from sun exposure. Types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma. Don’t risk the chance.
Whenever you go outside, protect your skin. Firstly, use sunscreen that blocks the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. You need to reapply the sunscreen every few hours and after swimming. Don’t forget to protect your lips with a balm that contains UV protection.
Other ways to protect your skin from sun damage are to avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts. On sunny days, try to cover up with long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat. You might also consider buying sun-protective clothing.
When you shop, look for the Ultraviolet Protection Factor rating, or UPF. Your clothing should have a rating of at least 30 for good protection. A UPF rating of 50, however, will provide even better protection against the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
2. DON’T Smoke
Smoking cigarettes is not only bad for your general health but can affect your skin as well. Smoking may contribute to premature aging, as well as place you at a higher risk for developing psoriasis. If you smoke, do your best to quit for good.
3. DO Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Many experts concur that alcohol may cause dehydration. If you are dehydrated, your skin may begin to look saggy and dry. Drinking alcohol may also make you appear tired. For this reason, you might want to limit your alcohol intake or eliminate alcohol totally.
4. DON’T Go to Bed with Your Makeup On
If you go to sleep without removing your makeup, you may be at risk for developing clogged pores. When dirt and oils become trapped, you’re at a greater risk for acne breakouts. Gently wash your face at the end of the day, removing all traces of makeup. Add a gentle and dermatologist-tested lotion to lock in moisture and prevent dry skin.
5. DO Reduce Eye Puffiness Naturally
Puffiness around the eyes (due to lack of sleep or illness) may make you look tired. Try a simple fix for this. Take an ordinary teaspoon and place it in the refrigerator for a few hours. When it becomes chilled, simply place the spoon over your puffy eyelids. This may help reduce swelling and puffiness.
6. DON’T Clean with Toxic Chemicals
Those ordinary, all-purpose household cleaners you use may contaminate your skin. When you spray chemicals, the exposed skin on your face and other parts of your body may absorb these chemicals. Instead, choose natural, eco-friendly cleaners that are safer for your health and gentler on your skin.
7. DO Re-evaluate Your Sleeping Position
If you sleep on your side or on your stomach, it may be time to reconsider your sleeping position. When sleeping on your side or on your stomach, your face becomes pressed into the pillow, possibly leading to wrinkles. In addition, you may develop wrinkles on your chest when sleeping on your side or stomach. Play it safe and help avoid lines and wrinkles by sleeping on your back.
If you have any concerns about skin care, contact Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists to get acne treated today!
Taking good care of your skin should be a lifelong habit. Protecting your skin from damage and nourishing it from the inside are a few steps to a healthy complexion. Knowing what to avoid is equally important. If you develop skin issues, it is a good idea to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist who is experienced in conditions affecting the skin. Here is what you should and should not be doing.
