There’s nothing worse than a bad skin day. Unlike your hair or your body, it cant be hidden with clothes or a hat, if you have a rash or a big spot, chances are it’s going to make you feel rubbish and impact your self-esteem. Here are some of the ways you can better look after it and resolve issues.
Rule out skin conditions
Skin problems from psoriasis to acne to dermatitis can all cause dry skin as a byproduct of the condition. You’ll usually know that you have a skin condition like this due to other symptoms, but when they’re milder it might just be the dry skin that you notice. If you have an ongoing problem like this with your skin, it’s important to speak to a doctor so the underlying cause can be treated. Self-treating using over the counter or scented beauty products might make the issues worse. In many cases, you’ll need medicated creams which can only be got on prescription, or tablets such as antibiotics or hormones to regulate your skin’s oil glands.
Stay hydrated and eat well
Taking care of your skin doesn’t just mean what products you put on the outside, but how you nourish from the inside too. Staying hydrated is key and can help prevent dehydrated skin. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables means you’re consuming antioxidants, these neutralize free radicals which cause cell damage in the skin (leading to things like premature aging).
Work out your skin type
Knowing your skin type is so important when it comes to looking after it. Your skin is likely to fall into one of the following categories- oily, dry/ dehydrated, or combination (a mixture of both types). It might be obvious to you which category your skin is in, dry skin tends to feel rough and flaky and oily skin tends to look shiny and be prone to spots. If you’re not sure, book into a salon or spa and have a facial as they will be able to diagnose your skin type while treating it. Once you know your skin type, you can purchase products that are designed for it, and will therefore, be much more effective.
Stick to a good regime
Once you know which kinds of products you should use, your next step is to build a skincare routine and stick with it. Most people will benefit from a moisturizer, a face wash, exfoliator, and eye cream. From there you can add things like serums- this vitamin c serum with vitamin e for example delivers hydration and minerals to your skin to brighten and help reduce wrinkles. Weekly face masks are another thing you could add if you need it, they’re pampering and can help target specific skin complaints from dryness to dullness to oil control. Be sure to take your makeup off each night before you go to bed, and be gentle with your skin too. Don’t pull or scrub at the skin which can accentuate aging and leave it feeling sore.