Skincare is a process, not a product.
This process begins with our conception. This is the genetic make-up we are given by our parents. It is the foundation, the “bricks and mortar” we are born with.
This process continues after our birth and is influenced by two main factors (in addition to the passage of time). Where did our soft and smooth baby skin go?
The first is the power of the sun and our underestimation of its effects. It’s not the trip to the beach or the vacation to a sunny location that’s the culprit. It’s the accumulation over time of daily sun exposure. The body’s immune system attempts to “clean up” the damage, but over time it becomes overwhelmed.
The other serious factor is smoking. Cigarette smoke has a direct effect as it bathes the skin of the face in toxic materials. It also has an indirect effect through systemic circulation by influencing blood circulation and reducing the immune system’s effectiveness in many ways. These effects age us much faster than the passage of time alone.
Thus, avoiding the sun and smoke are important in keeping our skin healthy. Daily protection (sunblocks) and correction (antioxidants, retinoids, growth factors, and AHA’s) are helpful.
Sun Protection
Start every day with sun protection. UVA protection is the most important.
Sun damage can add years to your “skin age.” In the morning, if you are staying inside, going out, or even if it’s raining, put a protective layer between you and the sun. Remember, the sun is out even if it’s cloudy or raining.
Sunscreen and sunblock provide the best protection.
Think of sun protection as prevention, sort of like an insurance policy for your skin’s health.
Ingredients to look for:
- Retinoids and retinols (Retin A, etc) increase cell turnover, reverse some precancerous skin changes, and increase skin hydration.
- Antioxidants to stop free radical damage.
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids to remove scaly, dead, and damaged surface cells.
- Vitamin C helps hydrate cells and discourage fine lines. It brightens the skin, stimulates collagen production, and repairs sun damage helping to improve fine lines and texture.
- Sunscreen and sunblock to protect the skin.
Skincare Lines Available:
- Skinbetter Science
- ZO Skin Health by Dr. Zein Obagi