The Beginner’s Skin Care Guide
MELANIE SCHWARZ
Melanie Schwarz is a registered nurse who works closely with each of our patients to provide the quality treatment they deserve for optimal results.
Whether you are a young tween just beginning to discover that skin care goes beyond swiping your face with soap in the shower, or an older woman who is interested in learning how to address specific issues by using the correct products, we have got you covered in this beginner’s skin care guide.
After running over the basics of what skin care is, and why you should care, a brief summarization of some of the most common skin issues or desired outcomes of the skin care routine will follow. Skin care has become one of the most popular methods of self-care, right up there with hitting the gym and indulging in a glass or two of wine. So hop on the bandwagon knowledgeably and get ready to finally experience the skin of your dreams.
What is Skin Care?
Your skin is the largest organ on your body and, as such, is an extremely important part of your existence. Essentially, if your skin isn’t happy, your body probably isn’t. But if you are attentive to the needs of your skin – protecting it from the sun, washing it properly, and moisturizing well – the aesthetic and the function of your skin will improve.
What Steps Should My Skin Care Routine Include?
In general, skin care is centered around the face. Most facial skin care routines are divided up into two sections: morning and night. A typical morning routine will include cleansing and some sort of moisturizer containing SPF to protect from excessive sun exposure. Night routines are often where the self-care aspect comes into play, as they can include any number of serums, sprays, toners, or other treatments in between cleansing and moisturizing.
Skin Care and Skin Conditions: How to Create a Skin Care Routine Tailored to Your Needs
If you struggle with specific issues with your skin, there are routines that can help or hinder your skin to heal and glow. Here are a few of the most common conditions, and the solutions that can help.
Reducing Acne
Acne is a universal struggle, but there are some specific ingredients you can keep an eye out for in the creams and cleansers you purchase to aid you in your quest for blemish free skin.
- Chemical exfoliants are a wonderful alternative to the harshness of physical exfoliants, and are often more effective at removing dead skin and other pore-cloggers.
- Azelaic Acid is a unique acid that gently exfoliates and is able to effectively target acne and other bumps formed as a part of Rosacea.
- Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most commonly known ingredients that targets acne by attacking the root cause of inflammation: bacteria. This can be a bit harsh for some skin types, so it’s important to moisturize properly afterwards.
Addressing Hyperpigmentation
In addition to Vitamin C, Chemical exfoliants, Retinoids, and sunscreen, Hydroquinone is one of the most key ingredients to brighten and smooth any issues as a result of hyperpigmentation.
Skin Dryness
Obviously, when dealing with skin dryness, it is crucial to moisturize often. But be on the lookout: many creams or lotions contain fragrances or dyes that will irritate or cause reactions. Look for a moisturizer that contains one or both of these ingredients.
- Hyaluronic acid actually draws moisture into the skin, and is found naturally in the body. A product that contains hyaluronic acid will enable your skin to work double-time on staying healthy and glowing.
- Squalane oil is a very light, yet effective oil that will “fill in the cracks” so to speak; it actually goes between skin cells and moisturizes from within without being oppressive or oily.
Brightening by Way of Vitamin C
No matter what your issues are, chances are that you could benefit from the amazing powers of Vitamin C to brighten skin. Vitamin C reduces pigmentation, brightens the skin, and increases collagen creation.
Vitamin C reduces pigmentation, brightens the skin, and increases collagen creation.
Retinoids to Refresh Skin
Retinoids (like Retinol, retinal) will combat dead skin cells and leave your skin glowing and smooth! Retinoids are perfect for brightening the skin as well as reducing signs of aging and acne! It is important to listen to your dermatologist or doctor’s advice when adding in a retinoid to your skin care routine, as they can be an irritant to your skin.
Ready to find the perfect skin care routine?
Starting a skin care routine will not only give you the pampered feeling of an at-home spa, it will benefit your skin for years to come. If you’re still not sure how to find the highest caliber of skin care products, schedule a consultation with a specialist at Aesthetica!
While our offices are closed during the pandemic, we invite you to schedule a VIRTUAL consultation with Dr. Chang or one of the cosmetic laser and injection nurses to learn how you can stay home AND stay beautiful. Dr. Phillip Chang is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Northern Virginia near Leesburg, Virginia and an expert in a wide variety of cosmetic treatments.
Let Us Help You!
Our office can provide you with helpful information, schedule a free consultation, and walk you through the many services and procedures we offer.
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