After receiving one from a number of treatments that are offered at the Azani Medical Spa in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, patients are always asking owner, Monica Gavin, M.D., how they can maintain their amazing complexions after they leave the office. As a diplomat of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, Dr. Gavin is always eager to educate her patients about skin care regimens. The steps you take to protect your skin are as important the products you use.
Our skin in the largest organ on our body. But, unfortunately, we are not as concerned about managing its health as we are our about our heart and brain. In reality, explains Dr. Gavin, our skin suffers a great deal. Every day the skin is exposed to wind, pesticides, smoke and the most harmful element, UV rays. Because of these factors, many of which are unavoidable, everyone should have an active skin care plan. By following these basic guidelines, you too can customize a skin care routine that will leave you with a radiant, healthy glow.
- Sun Protection: Dr. Gavin says that she cannot stress enough the importance of applying sunscreen 365 days a year. The ultraviolet rays that are emitted by the sun are the worst for our body. Whether it is a beautiful day outside or it is cloudy or snowing, if you do not have the proper sunscreen on, you are leaving your skin exposed.
- Exfoliate: You should exfoliate every single day to remove the buildup of dead skin cells. Especially as you age, the layer of dead skin cells thickens which can leave skin feeling rough and dry. By combating these dead cells everyday, you can drastically soften your skin. For everyday use an over the counter exfoliating scrub is fine. For a more intense exfoliating treatment though, Dr. Gavin recommends visiting your dermatologist’s office or a medical spa for either microdermabrasions or vibradermabrasions a few times a year.
- Moisturize: Regardless of your skin type, you should be moisturizing your skin every day, perhaps even multiple times a day depending on how often you shower and wash your face. As you age, you will also find that your skin does not obtain moisture the way it used to, making this step even more crucial. Even people with oily skin should moisturize, explains Dr. Gavin. Moisturizers will actually trick your skin into not producing more oil.
- Exercise: Just as with any other part of our body, staying active is a wonderful way to keep your skin in shape. Sweating is actually a great, natural way to make skin radiant. And, as long as you clean the skin on your face and body properly after a workout, you won’t see breakouts resulting from sweat.
- Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential to keeping your skin looking young and blemish-free. Staying away from oily and fatty foods will reduce blemishes, but you may also want to ask your doctor about nutritional supplements that can help even out skin tone and improve your skin’s overall appearance.
And remember, these rules do not apply just to your face. The skin on your elbows is just as important as the skin on your cheeks.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
