Regular facial care is encouraged by doctors of dermatology for everyone, not just for people with sensitive skin. Daily skin cleansing and protection should begin as early as possible, because we experience most of our sun exposure in the first two decades of life. According to the Skin Sciences Institute, children who use sunscreen can avoid non-melanoma skin cancers later in life. Dermatologist recommended methods keep skin healthy and counteract the effects of sun damage, allergies and aging.
Structure
Cleansing, moisturizing and protecting yourself from the sun are the three basics of facial care. Exfoliating, or removing dead skin cells, is also helpful unless you have eczema, psoriasis or very sensitive skin. Cleansing is essential, say doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology, to remove dirt and obstructions, allowing the skin to function properly. Moisturizing reinforces the skin's natural barrier, keeping body water in and pollutants out.
Products
Using dermatologist recommended cosmetic products will help you avoid allergic reactions or irritation to sensitive skin. Stay away from product ingredients such as fragrance and alcohol. Look for those that support skin health, including retinoids and antioxidants. Choose a gel or foaming cleanser for oily facial skin, or a lotion cleanser for dry skin. Use hypoallergenic moisturizers and sunscreens or combination products. The American Academy of Dermatology endorses Aveeno sunblock, and the American Cancer Society endorses Neutrogena sun products.
Time Frame
Dermatologists suggest that you cleanse and moisturize twice a day, or more if your skin condition and your daily environment warrant it. For daytime, moisturizers should be light, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or 30; products may contain more oil and rejuvenating peptides for use at night. Dermatologist recommended schedules for exfoliation are once a week for dry skin, twice weekly for oily skin and only occasionally for sensitive skin.
Application
According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, how you perform facial care is as important as the products you use. Always use lukewarm water for cleansing. Apply soap with the fingertips, not a cloth. Pat your skin dry rather than rubbing. This leaves a little bit of water on the surface that you can seal in with moisturizer before it evaporates--usually within a minute or two.
Benefits
Removing dead skin, keeping pores open and the face moisturized benefits your appearance daily. Your skin will look as bright, fresh and firm as nature---and your age---will allow. Daily skin care reduces irritation and therefore skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis. Most significantly, with skin cancer currently affecting 1 in 5 Americans as the American Academy of Dermatology reports, using dermatologist recommended sunscreen can directly benefit your health and longevity.
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