Cosmetic product manufacturers push brand names and expensive formulas based on profit margins. Dermatologists, however, recommend skin care products based on health science. Doctors at the American Academy of Dermatology point out that multiple products and expensive formulas don't always make for healthy skin. You can create a facial care routine based on dermatologist-recommended substances that have been proved to work.
Sun Protection
Researchers are still learning more about ultraviolet-ray damage to the skin, but dermatologists do know that both UVA and UVB rays cause photo-aging, which leads to wrinkles. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects skin from absorbing both harmful types of light waves. A formula with sun protection factor 15 is preferred.
Sun-protection clothing that shuts out ultraviolet light to some degree is also recommended for healthy skin, along with sunglasses and car window tints that do the same.
Facial Cleanser
Dermatologists affiliated with the AAD call daily cleansing essential for healthy skin---if the right cosmetic products are used. Ingredients in deodorant and antibacterial soaps can overdry the skin, as can heavy perfume. Use a fragrance-free, moisturizing soap for healthy skin, or one that is specially formulated to control acne if you experience outbreaks.
Recommended ingredients that meet these criteria include glycerin for its moisturizing properties and a solution of benzoyl peroxide for effective acne treatment. Aging skin can benefit from exfoliating ingredients, which include glycolic acid, salicylic acid and botanical additives, such as oatmeal.
Moisturizing Lotion
Moisturizers such as hand lotion and facial cream have been proved to smooth skin texture and create a visible difference in skin appearance. Experts at Skin Sciences Institute note that water as a main ingredient in moisturizing cosmetic products is an excellent skin conditioner. The other ingredients help bind that water to your skin.
Additional cosmetic product ingredients to look for include humectants and emollients. The American Academy of Dermatology endorses compounds such as lanolin, glycerin, propylene glycol, mineral oil and dimethicone. Again, choose moisturizing skin care products with little or no fragrance.
Night Repair
Your skin faces environmental damage from the sun all day, but at night, self-repair can take place. Skin care while you sleep is endorsed by dermatologists to heal the skin's natural barrier, for tomorrow's protection. Facial creams, eye creams and antiaging masques are available with proven active ingredients.
Recommended skin care ingredients with antioxidant and regenerative properties include: azelaic acid, retinoic acid, kojic acid and salicylic acid. You may also see them listed as alpha or beta hydroxy acids, retinol or synthetic vitamin A.
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