What are your everyday, must-do essential skin care tips? While women’s magazines, health guides and TV programs love to talk about skincare, it’s anything but simple. There’s everything from $1 super potions to $10,000 celebrity treatments, and the advice on how to care for your face seems to change frequently too. Not any more – dermatologists from around the world have come together to share the essential skin care tips that you should know about – and let you give your skin its best care yet!
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Gentle Does It…
One of the most obvious but often ignored essential skin care tips is to wash gently! Treat your skin as if it was a gentle silk, and use care when you clean it. A gentle circular motion will clean your face most effectively, and avoid harsh rubbing and pulling. Some care routines recommend using pressure to create a temporary glow, but it’s really bad for your skin long term – you run a serious risk of stretching out your skin, and damaging capillaries.
Remember to choose a cleanser that's right for your skin type, whether it's dry, oily, or combination skin. Harsh soaps can strip away natural oils and disturb the pH balance, leading to irritation and breakouts. Opt for a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, and don't forget to wash your face both in the morning and before bed to remove the day's grime and makeup. After washing, give your skin the tender aftercare it deserves—pat it dry gently with a soft towel, rather than rubbing, to avoid unnecessary stress on your delicate facial skin.
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It’s All in the Texture…
There is no one perfect cream for all skin types, so choose one that suits you best. If you’ve got dry, taut skin, opt for a rich creamy cleanser with a soothing ingredient such as seaweed. A wash containing salicylic acid or exfoliating fruit extracts is ideal for people with oily or acne-prone skin, used with a gentle scrub to remove dead skin once a week. For sensitive skin that is prone to red patches, look for natural products with no oils and perfumes. Non-lathering face washes and cleansing oils are ideal.
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Sunshine Skin…
The sun is good for your body, but not so good for your skin. A good sunscreen will offer protection from the sun’s rays, which can cause wrinkles, a leathery look, sun spots, rashes and cancer, along with a rich moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Don’t fall into the trap of just wearing sunscreen when it’s bright out, either, because the sun shines all year long. Get in the habit of applying suncream every day, even when it’s below zero, and opt for a nourishing moisturizer with SPF protection for the winter months. Your skin will look great.
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Drink Enough…
We are always being told that hydrated skin is great skin, but most people don’t monitor their drinking habits effectively. While there are disagreements on the exact amount of water needed to keep your body and skin fully hydrated, most dermatologists agree that 8 glasses a day is an ideal target. Fruits and vegetables are another great way to boost hydration, and hitting the steam room in a gym or spa will give your skin a hydro-boost too. It’s a great way to relax after exercising!
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Sugar Shock…
That doughnut you are craving will do more than just blow your calorie target – it might upset your skin, too. Studies have shown that sugar promotes ageing, by triggering free radicals, damaging cells and causing inflammation. Women who dropped to a low-sugar diet reported having much better skin, and feeling better too. It’s a great reason to cut down on sugary snacks in favor of something more healthy!
High-glycemic foods like the sugary treats we often reach for during a midday slump can exacerbate acne and wrinkles. The process is known as glycation, where sugar in your bloodstream attaches to proteins and forms advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These AGEs damage collagen and elastin, the fibers that keep skin firm and elastic. Opting for snacks rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids can not only help maintain your youthful glow but also keep your energy levels steady. Choosing berries or nuts over pastries could be the makeover your skin is craving.
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Feast on Fats…
Okay, so you probably shouldn’t actually feast on fats, but don’t be too quick to remove all forms of fat from your diet. Essential fatty acids are responsible for giving you smooth, supple skin, promoting healthy cells, calming swelling and inflammation and making skin appear younger. Unfortunately, it’s not the fats that you’ll find in take-aways that’ll keep your skin looking great! Instead, opt for salmon, mackerel, nuts, seeds and tuna – all are high in Omega 3s.
In addition to these omega-rich foods, avocados and olive oil are also powerhouses for maintaining a glowing complexion, thanks to their monounsaturated fats. Including them in your diet may help keep your skin hydrated and resilient to damage. On the other hand, it's crucial to steer clear of trans fats and minimize the intake of saturated fats, often found in processed foods, as they can prompt skin issues and accelerate aging. Balance is key, and moderate portions of these healthy fats can significantly contribute to a radiant and youthful skin.
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Hormone Help…
The hormone estrogen is responsible for making skin supple and smooth, but estrogen levels naturally decline as you age, which can lead to skin appearing older and wrinkled. There are plenty of chemical versions of estrogen, but boosting your levels through plant estrogen is generally easier and safer. Green vegetables such as broccoli are packed with estrogen among other goodies, such as vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. There’s even face creams that include glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Use them twice a day for best results, and you’ll keep your skin looking great.
To harness the power of plant estrogen, add foods like soybeans, flaxseed, and berries to your diet. They are natural estrogen-boosting foods that contribute to maintaining the skin's elasticity and hydration. Additionally, seeking out skincare products with phytoestrogens can mimic the effects of estrogen, helping to plump and firm your skin from the outside. A consistent skincare routine that includes these elements, coupled with sufficient hydration and sleep, will help your skin retain its youthful glow for longer. Remember, beauty starts from within, so nourish your body with care!
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Keep It Simple…
Once you’ve drank enough, eaten the right foods and used the right products, your skin will be looking much better. The last tip? Keep your skincare regime simple, so it’s easy to keep up with. Make up wipes next to the bed will make removing it before sleep easy, and give yourself a few minutes in the morning to apply your lotions and potions and let them settle. An easy regime is a successful regime.
If you can’t find a product that suits your skin, visit a few skincare counters and see what they advise. You’ll probably find your leave armed with information and samples, without spending a penny! Then once you’ve found the right cream, work on checking your diet for the right nutrients and ingredients, and getting the basic care right. Your skin will love you for it! Do you have any essential skin care tips? I’d love to hear them!
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