Taking good care of your skin can help you look your best and prevent future skin problems and medical conditions. Basic skin care only requires a few minutes of your time each day along with a few inexpensive products. No matter what skin challenges you have, devoting a little extra time and attention to your body’s largest organ in important.
Facial Skin Care
Washing your face twice a day with a mild cleanser can help remove excess dirt, oil and cosmetics that can leave your complexion looking dull and contribute to blemishes, explains TeensHealth from Nemours. Avoid touching your face throughout the day to prevent transferring oil and bacteria on your fingers to your face. Non-comedogenic moisturizers won’t clog your pores and they can help keep your skin hydrated, particularly if you have problems with dry facial skin.
Body Skin Care
Using hot water or taking frequent long baths can damage your skin. Limiting your bath and shower time and using warm water can help keep your skin healthy, according to the Mayo Clinic. While you may think strong soaps will get you cleaner, they can strip beneficial oils from your skin. Mild cleansers are enough to get the job done for most people, and they’re much gentler on your skin. Hydrating lotions and other moisturizers can help keep your skin looking its best.
Skin Problems
Acne is one of the most common skin complaints. A pimple here or there on an infrequent basis is not cause for concern, but you may need to alter your skin care regimen if you experience severe or frequent breakouts. Chronic skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, often require daily care that goes beyond basic skin care.
Beyond Basic Skin Care
If you have a chronic skin condition or problem, you may need to add some extra steps in your skincare routine to keep your symptoms under control. Medicated creams and lotions containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are effective for many people with acne. Your dermatologist may provide topical creams or ointments to help alleviate the scaling and redness characteristic of eczema and psoriasis.
Treat dandruff by washing your hair daily. Medicated shampoos containing coal tar, salicylic acid or selenium may also help alleviate dandruff by helping eliminate scales and slowing the cell turnover on your scalp. Antihistamines, creams containing hydrocortisone and cool compresses can help relieve redness and itching from rashes and insect bites.
Considerations
Protecting your skin from the harmful rays of the sun can help prevent premature aging and reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Use sunscreen when you must be outside and refrain from using tanning beds and sunlamps. Smoking contributes to wrinkles and an aged appearance. The nicotine and chemicals in cigarettes can also rob your skin of important nutrients and damage collagen and elastin that give your skin strength. Stress can trigger skin problems and breakouts. Taking time to relax can help prevent some problems.
Warnings
Some skin conditions can be signs of serious underlying medical conditions. A rash that forms after taking medication is sometimes a sign of an allergic reaction that requires treatment. Paying attention to changes in your skin can help you recognize what is abnormal for you so that you can seek the proper treatment.
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