Your skin changes over time, and so does the skin products market. Dermatologist recommendations for healthy skin care aids and ingredients will help you narrow the field of new cosmetic offerings considerably. These endorsements are based on scientific proof of their ingredients' effectiveness, rather than advertising claims. Your skin type (dry, oily or combination), condition and life stage will be the other deciding factors when shopping.
For Acne
While dermatologists warn those with acne-prone skin not to cleanse too often, they do endorse daily cleansing and acne control applications. Oil-free and noncomedogenic cosmetics and skin products are recommended to promote healthy skin. Dermatologists suggest mild gel or foam soaps that contain benzoyl peroxide to help retard bacteria growth on healthy skin and keep lesions from forming.
Topical creams are good for sensitive skin during acne outbreaks and for combination skin that needs to be moisturized. Severe cases may require prescription-strength treatments.
For Sun Exposure
Sun does the most damage to skin over a lifetime, causing wrinkling, rough texture and age spots in skin tone. Dermatologists recommend using sunscreen on all exposed skin every day, from childhood through adulthood. Formulas with sun protection factor (SPF) 30, 45, 50 and up are known to prevent epidermal damage and some forms of skin cancer.
You can buy different formulas for sensitive skin, babies, facial care and body coverage. Some are waterproof and sweat-proof, ideal for sports, and others contain self-tanning ingredients, since the sun's bronzing effect is inhibited by UV ray absorbers. Reapply sunscreen: often during the hottest hours of the day; after lengthy exposure; and after lotion has worn off from rubbing, sweating, swimming or washing.
For Aging Skin
As skin ages, the layers of tissue thin and become more delicate and vulnerable. To minimize environmental damage to sensitive skin, dermatologists suggest using mild cleanser and a protective moisturizer twice daily, in addition to your sun protection regimen.
Moisturizer helps maintain healthy skin's natural barrier to keep skin hydrated and harmful substances locked out. At night, choose a heavier moisturizing cream that contains an anti-aging barrier repair or skin tone adjustment ingredient. Retinol, azelaic acid, kojic acid and hydroquinone are effective in minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin tone or age spots.
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