As you age, so does your skin. There is nothing we can do about time marching on. However, there are things that you can do whatever your age to protect your skin. Take the time to include these routines in your daily life and you can improve your skin and prevent further damage. The outdoor lifestyle and year-round sunny days of mild climate areas such as Santa Barbara make these routines especially important. Exposure to the sun is a major factor in skin aging. A dermatologist in Santa Barbara provided this list of important routines for healthy skin care.
1. Protect your skin from the sun. This is the most important thing that you can do for your skin. The majority of negative aging affects to your skin including dryness, wrinkles, sunspots, agespots, and roughness are cause by exposure to the UV rays of the sun. This can lead to even more serious problems such as skin cancer.
Try to stay out of the sun during the middle of the day when the sun's rays are the most intense. When you are exposed to the sun wear sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 15 and preferably higher. Use a product that has broad spectrum coverage including both UVA and UVB. Make sure that you cover your skin completely and reapply after being in the water or sweating. Wide brimmed hats and protective clothing will also shield your skin from the sun.
2. Moisturize your skin on a regular basis. Try to wash your skin and moisturize in the morning when you get up and again at night before you go to bed. During the day use a moisturizer with at least SPF 15. If you have dry skin use an oil-based moisturizer after washing when you skin is still moist to help retain the water in your skin. If you have sensitive skin, don't use a moisturizer with dyes or perfumes.
3. Wash regularly and gently. Avoid using hot water, it can remove the necessary skin oils. Avoid abrasive scrubs that can irritate sensitive skin. Make sure you remove your makeup carefully, especially around the eyes, and if you are using a water-proof makeup, use oil based product to remove it. Make sure that you moisturize immediately after washing while your skin is still moist.
4. Eat a healthy and balanced diet. This will insure that your skin receives the necessary nutrients to maintain its health and help repair any damage.
5. Get plenty of sleep and try to keep your stress level in check. Obviously lack of sleep will make you look tired with that bags under the eyes and saggy skin look. If you are stressed and frowning, the contraction of the muscles in your face can create lines and wrinkles.
6. Don't Smoke. This is obvious for a lot of reasons, but smoking narrows the blood vessels in the skin which reduces the supply of oxygen to the skin. Over time this will cause damage to the elastin and collagen which give skin its elasticity and strength.
7. Watch your alcohol intake. Alcohol expands the small blood vessels in the skin. This leads to higher blood flow and creates that flushed look.
8. Follow a healthy shaving routine. Wash your face (or legs) before shaving and/or use a warm wash cloth to soften the hairs. Make sure you use a shaving cream or gel to lubricate the skin as you shave and shave in the direction of hair growth. Rinse off the excess shaving cream or gel after shaving and moisturize.
9. Check your skin regularly. Be aware of any changes to your skin such as new patches or moles. If these persist or grow be sure to consult a dermatologist to make sure they are not the precursor to skin cancer.
For serious or persistent skin problems consult professional help. It may not be anything serious and may a condition that can be treated at home. Consulting a dermatologist can help you understand your condition, the cause of any problem, and outline the proper treatment.
Tom Hills writes articles about skin care, laser skin care treatments, cosmetic skin care procedures, acne, and other dermatology issues. To receive a free guide on Skin Care and how to find the best dermatologist in Santa Barbara visit dermatologistsantabarbara.com dermatologistsantabarbara.com
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