When we think about the importance of skincare, the first thing that comes to mind is physical appearance and attractiveness. While that too is important, we must not forget that the main function of the largest organ in our skin is to protect us from pathogens and irritants in the environment. Broken, inflamed, and compromised skin can predispose us to infection and health problems--not to mention lowered self-confidence and social anxiety.
Therefore, everyone should practice skincare--old or young, male or female. Let’s do away with the idea that putting time and effort into caring for your skin is proof of vanity. Instead, let’s see it for what it really is--basic healthcare.
So how can we practice good skincare?
1. Moisturize.
Keeping the skin moisturized helps maintain the integrity of the skin and its appearance. By either preventing transepidermal water loss (occlusives) or by absorbing moisture from the environment (humectants), moisturizers can help repair the skin and keep the barrier intact.
Choose the right moisturizer for your skin type. Thicker formulations are best for dry skin, while more light-weight products would be best for oily skin. Preferably, use a moisturizer that does not have any inactive ingredients as this could potentially cause irritation and undermine the effectiveness of the product.
Keeping your skin moisturized isn’t just about what you put on your skin. Drinking lots of water has a host of health benefits, and one of them is giving your skin ample hydration from within. You may also want to increase humidity in the environment you spend most of your time in. Low humidity has been associated with skin dryness. Place a humidifier in your room or office to lend the atmosphere some moisture that your humectant product can absorb.
2. Use sun protection.
It’s no secret that sun exposure causes skin damage. As much as we want to have that toasty bronze glow, we should practice caution when exposing ourselves to those potentially harmful rays.
The best way to do that is to wear sunscreen. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. You can use chemical or physical filters, but remember that the latter is less likely to cause irritation. Put this on everyday regardless of the weather, and apply throughout the day.
Note that wearing sunscreen is not an excuse to sunbathe for hours. Avoid the sun at the hottest part of the day, or else protect your skin with clothing.
Taking measures to protect your skin from the sun keeps hyperpigmentation from getting worse, helps minimize wrinkles and fine lines, and reduces the risk of skin cancers. If that’s not enough reason to use SPF everyday, then I don’t know what is!
3. Minimize mechanical irritation.
You might think that rubbing and scrubbing is the best way to keep your skin squeaky clean, but it may do more harm than good. It can cause irritation and micro-abrasions that impair the protective function of the skin. Redness, dryness, and infection could result.
Skin thrives best when it’s given TLC. Apply skincare products with clean hands and a gentle touch. Use soft materials and a light hand when applying make-up. Try your best to avoid touching your face during the day.
One source of mechanical irritation that is frequently overlooked is the friction of your face against your pillows as you sleep. Anecdotal evidence suggests that converting to silk pillowcases and bed sheets may help keep your skin free of irritation. Make sure that these are regularly changed and cleaned as it can accumulate dust, dirt, and other irritants.
4. Eat healthy.
Water is one way to keep your skin healthy from within, but don’t discount the effect of diet! Food rich in essential fatty acids, Vitamin C, and probiotics are all good for the skin (and the body too!).
You may also consider taking supplements to add to your diet. Vitamin E’s antioxidant answer can help with sensitive and irritated skin, Vitamin A can help brighten and tighten the skin, and Vitamin B can help correct uneven skin tone.
5. Get enough rest and relaxation.
Stress manifests in the skin. So if you want it to look good, you’ve got to start taking care of yourself. The easiest way to do this is to get some beauty sleep. Constantly staying up late takes its toll on the skin. Studies have related sleep deprivation to increased levels of inflammatory molecules, decreased collagen production, and dermapathologies including acne and psoriasis.
You can also reduce stress levels by engaging in self-care activities. Do things that make you calm and happy, whether it’s lighting a lavender-scented candle, letting your creative juices flow, or starting your day with a yoga session.
This content is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice.
Resources:
Hirotsu, Camila & Albuquerque, Rachel & Tufik, Sergio & Andersen, Monica. (2016). Sleep and Dermatology. 10.1201/9781315366340-21.
Purnamawati, S., Indrastuti, N., Danarti, R., & Saefudin, T. (2017). The Role of Moisturizers in Addressing Various Kinds of Dermatitis: A Review. Clinical medicine & research, 15(3-4), 75–87. https://doi.org/10.3121/cmr.2017.1363
