New Year, New Skin Goals

Healthy skin regimen-

5 key things to follow

I don't know what it is, but something about January 1st gives us the okay for a fresh start with everything in our lives. One thing many people vow to do is to take better care of themselves. At least I always do. Most importantly people are focusing on "self-care" which means eating better, exercising, and focusing on improving mentally, physically, and spiritually.

2020 has brought on new challenges as well as new ways we look at taking care of ourselves as a whole. Focusing on the mental aspects of our lives has been the theme during the pandemic and will continue to thrive in 2021. However, when it comes to skincare one trend uptick noted these past 12 months have been a more detailed routine and focus.

What better time than now to regroup on your skincare routine to make sure you are doing everything you can to keep your skin healthy from a professional perspective.

Here are 5 steps you should not live without:

1. Finding the right cleanser. Not all facial cleansers are created equal when it comes to skin types. Did you know your skin has an acidic pH and using alkaline cleansers (which are the majority out there) can strip your skin of the essentials needed for a healthy barrier?

2. Sunscreen even when you are indoors. Blue light has finally come to "light" after years of education provided by dermatologists across the country. The rise in zoom meetings resulted in more protection from visible and not visible light when we are indoors. Finally becoming aware that sitting by that window all day is damaging your skin if you don't have the sunscreen on.

3. Moisturizer! No matter what your skin type a moisturizer is imperative for proper skin care and balance. Again, think about the barrier of your skin as your protector to the outside world. Is it healthy and in balance, because if it is not it is an open invitation to infection.

4. Antioxidants come in various forms and my personal faves are in serums, the newest celebrity has been niacinamide which helps with inflammation, but my personal fave is Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) which can come in different strengths and formulations based on your skin type.

5. Retinols - are an anti-aging staple! With so many OTC options available it is a great start at any age. If you want to up the ante in your anti-aging game, make an appointment with your dermatologist for a prescription option.

Need some over the counter guidance? Be seen virtually for FREE when you schedule a SKINtelligent consult with our Certified Physician Assistant, Renata Block. You will get a one-on-one session and discounts to medical-grade skincare.