Because everyone’s skin type and specific skin conditions are unique, there is no one-size-fits-all comprehensive skincare routine that will work for everyone. That said, however, there are a few key skincare tips that can benefit just about any skin type, and these should therefore be staples in everyone’s daily routine.
1. Wear a Daily Sunscreen
Few things age the skin faster than prolonged sun exposure, not to mention the fact that the sun’s powerful UV rays can lead to skin cancer and other skin diseases. And don’t let cloud coverage or chilly winter weather fool you (American Scientist). No matter the weather or the season, everyone should wear a daily sunscreen of at least SPF 15, as UV rays can penetrate the clouds and are still present in the winter.
In fact, one unpublished study by Unilever showed that using just SPF 5 every day for five years prevented significant sun damage. But because most people do not apply enough sunscreen, it’s recommended that you use at least SPF 15. Do yourself and your skin a favor and use a moisturizer that doubles as an SPF 15. You’re probably moisturizing anyway, right? So this step should be an effortless way to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy and beautiful.
2. Use a Vitamin C Serum
No matter your skin type, I believe that everyone should use a vitamin C serum along with their sunscreen every morning. Vitamin C comes with a whole host of skin health benefits, including free-radical protection, boosting collagen production, and helping to even skin tone (Linus Pauling Institute).
Keep in mind, though, that vitamin C skincare products need to be stored, packaged and formulated properly to maintain their stability and effectiveness, so make sure you’re getting your vitamin C serums from a reputable source, especially if you’re shopping online.
3. Use a Retinoid
In my opinion, the family of vitamin A creams known as retinoids are the best anti-aging night creams, and I believe that everyone over the age of 20 should be using a retinoid at night. This may help to prevent aging and can smooth away wrinkles that you already have, while also helping to prevent acne and exfoliating the skin.
Know that retinoids do have a tendency to lead to dry or peeling skin, so make sure you talk with your dermatologist about the best regimen for your skin type before beginning a retinoid treatment.
4. Find the Right Cleanser
Although every skincare routine should include regular cleansing, not every cleanser is the right product for every skin type. If dryness is an issue, for example, a foaming cleanser will only make matters worse. Two of the best cleansers for dry skin are iS Clinical Creamy Cleanser and Essopi Glycolic 10% Moisturizing Cleanser (available exclusively through Skin Type Solutions Physician Partners).
Oily types beware! A cleanser that’s too rich can send sebaceous glands into overdrive. The best cleanser for oily skin is a foaming cleanser such as La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel Cleanser.
5. Know Your Skin Type
While nearly all skin types can benefit from these few skin care tips, the rest of your daily regimen is going to be dictated by your specific Baumann Skin Type. Properly identifying your skin type is key for positive skincare outcomes. This approach will also save you time and money in the long run by ensuring that you’re using the best active ingredients and formulations for your unique skin.
Find a physician who can accurately diagnose your Baumann Skin Type at www.skintypesolutions.com.
Dr. Leslie Baumann, M.D. and her team at Baumann Cosmetic Dermatology believe in proof, not promises. World-recognized for both cosmetic and general dermatology, our treatment strategies rely exclusively on evidence-based, scientifically verified products and procedures that promote skin health and a natural appearance. We combine effective medical procedures with individualized instruction on proper skincare, nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle in order to maximize the health of the skin and body as a whole while minimizing the effects of aging. For more, visit Dr. Baumann’s blog for daily updates Monday through Friday, or inquire about an appointment through Derm.net.