A good skincare routine is crucial for maintaining healthy and youthful skin, but it can be overwhelming with so many products and routines to choose from. If you’re resolving to boost your skincare regimen this year, then here are 9 of our best skincare regimen tips from Arlington Dermatology.
1. Drink Enough Water
When you’re dehydrated, your skin can appear dull and tired. Over time, this can lead to premature wrinkles, dryness, and sagging skin. Make it a goal to drink at least eight glasses of water daily. Doing this will help keep your skin hydrated and refreshed. It can have a variety of great benefits for the rest of your body, too.
2. Get Enough Sleep
When you sleep, your body repairs and regenerates itself – this includes skin damage that accumulates throughout the day. Aim to get at least eight hours of sleep per night and avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime to ensure a good night’s rest.
3. Cleanse Regularly
Cleansing should be the first step in any skincare routine, and it’s essential to do it regularly. It helps to remove oil, dirt, and makeup from your skin. The best cleansers are gentle, unscented, and won’t strip the skin of its natural moisturizers. Make sure to cleanse both in the morning and night.
4. Exfoliate Regularly
Gentle exfoliation is another great way to remove dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin. But be careful not to over-exfoliate as this can lead to irritation that can predispose your skin to further problems. Consider using a chemical exfoliant like glycolic acid rather than mechanical exfoliation like scrubs or brushes. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin or eczema you may want to avoid exfoliation completely as this may cause more harm than help to your skin.
5. Use Sunscreen Daily
Outside of sun avoidance and sun protective clothing, sunscreen is the best way to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Make an effort to wear a broad-spectrum (blocks both UVA and UVB light) sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30 to prevent premature aging and sunspots. Apply it every morning to all sun exposed areas, even if you spend most of your day inside, and reapply every 2-3 hours if outdoors.
6. Incorporate Antioxidants
Damage from free radicals occurs when you’re exposed to environmental pollutants or sunlight. Free radical damage can break down skin cells and collagen, leading to premature aging. You can neutralize free radicals by using antioxidant products like vitamin C. Apply it in the morning to protect your skin throughout the day.
7. Use a Topical Retinoid
Retinoids are a form of vitamin A that can help boost skin cell turnover and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Used appropriately, it can help prevent signs of aging and achieve a healthier quality to the skin. Retinoids come in over-the-counter, medical office grade, and prescription strengths, and it’s best to start with a very low strength if you don’t already use it. Start by using it 3-4 times per week and work your way up to daily use as your skin gets used to the retinoid.
8. Moisturize Daily
Moisturizing is critical to maintaining healthy skin. It keeps your skin hydrated and prevents dryness. Select a gentle and unscented moisturizer and apply it at least twice per day, making sure to apply it to your neck, trunk, arms, and legs too.
9. Visit a Dermatologist Regularly
A board-certified dermatologist can help you create a customized skincare routine tailored to your needs. A board-certified dermatologist is the most qualified medical provider to help address any of your skin concerns and help you slow down the aging process. Dermatologists can provide services like AviClear for mild to severe acne and Clear + Brilliant for skin rejuvenation. Your dermatologist can also perform a skin check to detect signs of skin cancer and help with any other skin, nail, or hair-related medical issues.
Schedule a Consultation
At Arlington Dermatology in Arlington, Virginia, we understand the importance of a good skincare routine. We provide medical and cosmetic dermatology services to ensure your skin is healthy, smooth, and comfortable. Call us today to learn about skincare or schedule an appointment with our board-certified dermatologists.
