There’s nothing more daunting than living with acne when you’re well beyond your pre-teen years. Unfortunately, blemishes don’t care how old your skin is – they can occur when you least expect it. Even if you’re not dealing with a problematic complexion, it’s in your best interest to give your skin the proper TLC it deserves, as it’s the largest – and one of the most important – organs.
If you’re interested in completely changing up your skin care regimen, or you want to add a new step to your normal routine, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some pieces of skin care advice from the professionals:
1. Start eating more almonds
Healthy skin goes beyond topical treatments. According to New York City dermatologist Doris Day, MD, almonds are the perfect snack for a sensational complexion.
“Almonds are the perfect snack for a sensational complexion.”
“They contain essential fatty acids, which help put the brakes on inflammation that accelerates fine lines, sagging, and blotchiness,” she told Prevention magazine.
Incorporate this skin-saver into your breakfast or pack it for a quick snack in the middle of the day.
2. Reduce your stress
Skin conditions like psoriasis and acne tend to break out under high-stress situations. If you find that you’re always on edge, try new ways to relax. Perhaps you enjoy a hot bath every night, reading a chapter out of book or going on a jog in the morning before work. Find something that works for you, as it could make a huge difference in your complexion. Los Angeles dermatologist Annie Chiu, MD, loves a facemask and unplugging every night before bed.
“Controlling stress keeps your skin calm – but that’s easier said than done,” she told Prevention. “I turn off my cell phone after 8 at night. Every little bit helps!”
3. Take a break from the alcohol
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a glass of wine after a long day at work. It’s when you start to make a habit of drinking in excess that can cause problematic skin. In fact, dermatologist Susan Evans told InStyle magazine that consuming more than one drink in a day can enlarge your pores and can also increase oil production. Take a break from alcohol for a few weeks as a means of cleansing the skin and see if you notice a difference in your complexion.
4. Give yourself a facial massage
If fine lines and wrinkles are starting to show up in your skin, try giving yourself a facial massage. L.A. dermatologist and author Jessica Wu recommended adding this to your nightly regimen.
“Many people (myself included) frown and scrunch their faces at night, leading to frown lines and crow’s feet,” Wu shared with Self magazine. “To relax my face, I do facial acupressure for a few minutes at bedtime. Press above your inner eyebrows, temples, and next to your nostrils, holding for 10 seconds each.”
5. Add hydrocortisone to your list of go-to products
You should always moisturize after cleansing and exfoliating, no question. But there’s another product that can replace this staple in your regimen every once in a while, especially if you’re dealing with rosy cheeks or puffy skin, according to board certified anti-aging specialist Yelena Yeretsky. It’s hydrocortisone cream.
Add hydrocortisone to your skincare regimen.“The night before a big event, exfoliate skin and use over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream in lieu of moisturizer and eye cream,” she told Self magazine. “It’s an anti-inflammatory that takes care of any swelling, under-eye bags, puffiness, and redness. Just don’t abuse it, like anything used in extreme amounts, it has its side effects.”
6. Cleanse after the gym
It’s easy to forget how important it is to take care of your skin after going to the gym. But sweat and dirt buildup leads to breakouts, so cleansing post-workout is something to consider adding to your normal routine. For convenience, dermatologist Heidi Waldorf told InStyle that makeup remover wipes can do the trick.
7. Visit Maryland Plastic Surgery
If you want to put the health of your complexion into someone else’s hands, Maryland Plastic Surgery Center and Pure Medspa is your ticket to clear skin. Here, you’ll gain access to some of the most advanced cosmetic dermatology treatments by board certified plastic surgeons and dermatologists who handle everything from cystic acne and rosacea to rashes, eczema and moles.
No matter your concern, there’s a treatment option available for you. For more information on one of the services or if you’re ready to schedule your consultation, contact Maryland Plastic Surgery today
