(BlackDoctor.org) — When it comes to your skin, there’s a lot of information out there, along with a lot of products, and a lot of skin care myths, that may be making it harder for you to take care of your skin.
So what are some things that you definitely need to avoid in order to maintain healthier skin?
Skin No-No’s That Are Hurting You
1. You have no idea what your skin type is. If you don’t know your skin type, then you’re probably using the wrong products. Using the right ingredients can make a significant difference in the appearance of your skin. To help you figure out what type of skin you have, please read The Key To Flawless Skin.
2. You’re not using SPF. This is one skin health fact worth repeatinng – darker skin tones need sun protection, too! One unpublished study by Unilever showed that using just SPF 5 every day for five years prevented significant sun damage. Do yourself and your skin a favor and use a moisturizer with at least SPF 15.
3. You’re getting too much sun exposure. 10 to 15 minutes of unprotected sun a few times a week can help your body get its vitamin D fix, but if you’re outside for an hour a day without sunscreen, your skin will eventually remind you of this.
4. You’re not using the right cleanser for you. If you have dry skin, a foaming cleanser will only make matters worse. But for oily skin, cleansers that are too rich may make those sebaceous glands go crazy. Talk to your dermatologist about the best skincare products that meet your personal needs.
5. You’re not using a retinoid. Most dermatologist’s agree that the family of vitamin A creams known as retinoids are the best night creams, and that everyone over the age of 20 should be using a retinoid at night. Why? Retinoids may help prevent aging and will smooth wrinkles you already have along with preventing acne and exfoliating the skin.
6. You’re exfoliating too much. How do you know how much to exfoliate? Again, it depends on your skin type. If your skin is dry, too much exfoliation strips lipids from the skin, and sensitive types can experience even more inflammation. Exfoliation is best for oily, resistant types of skin.
7. You’re not getting an annual skin exam. Did you know that your skin is your largest organ? Just as you’d (hopefully) get your other body parts checked out at least once a year, you should also be checking in with a dermatologist for a full-body skin exam.
Believe it or not, it’s not that hard to have healthier skin. By following the above guidelines, as well as talking to your doctor, eating healthy (including drinking 8-10 glasses of water every day) and exercising, you can have more beautiful and healthy skin not just for today, but tomorrow as well.
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