I love getting comments and emails with concerns, questions, tidbits, tips and generally great ideas. Most recently, I came to realize that some members of the
[my] style files community had yet to uncover the amount of content on the site (
yes, that means you, Jill!). You will be glad to know that information is updated daily. So come back often and contribute!
Due to my recent conversation with Jill, I thought it would be beneficial to push out my
skin care regimen. After all, you are your skin. And you have to live in your skin for a lifetime so don't lose momentum now. It’s important to follow some key steps in caring for your skin. For one, use an SPF (a
real one). By this I mean, one that contains Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide or Mexoryl. Only these ingredients will help prevent UVB and UVA rays (those responsible for premature aging, wrinkles and cancer) from penetrating the skin. In the summer, you can skip your moisturizer and use your SPF solo.
You should also use a topical
antioxidant which can help with cell turnover and to build collagen. And thirdly, the ever important
retinoid product (
prescription strength, please - so visit your dermatologist).
To keep moisture levels in balance, follow these tips:
- Face: apply a moisturizer twice daily, morning and evening. Choose a moisturizer with at least a 30 SPF in the morning, and a climate-appropriate moisturizer in the evening.
- Body: apply a moisturizer after bathing, while skin is still damp. This will lock in moisture. In the winter, apply a heavier moisturizer.
Morning skin care routine
- Cleanser (rinse twice as long as washing)
- Antioxidant
- Sunscreen* (be picky about your SPFs)
*In the winter, I apply a moisturizer between step 2 and 3.
Evening skin care routine
- Cleanser (rinse twice as long as washing)
- Antioxidant
- Moisturizer
- Prescription strength retinoid (sometimes I put this before step 3, depending on the sensitivity level of my skin)
Everything you apply to your face should also be applied to your neck - in upward strokes.
Exfoliate face (
including mouth/lips) and body 1-2 times a week. Apply a mask to your face after exfoliating - the mask should be tailored toward your
skin's needs. Want to know my skin care product picks? Just ask.
The clear advantage of visiting a dermatologist:Getting educated on the latest fads (
and by that I mean, don’t waste your money, ladies!), in addition to the tried and true products. 1. Visit a dermatologist 2. Ask a lot of questions to learn about your exact skin type 3. Leave with the right prescriptions based on your diagnosis
Night-time Tip:Did you know that sleeping elevated reduces puffiness under your eyes and sleeping on a satin pillowcase helps prevent more wrinkles from forming?
