Tips for Healthy Skin Month & Beyond

Tag Archives: skin care tips

Woman with healthy skin

November is National Healthy Skin Month – a time to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of your skin and maintaining its overall health. And in doing this, a variety of different skin conditions and issues can be avoided. Here are some ways to do just that:

  • Have a skincare routine. Establish and follow a daily skincare regimen that is tailored to your skin type. Essentials include cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen.
  • Skin cancer detection & prevention. Get regular skin cancer examinations (at least once a year) and use sunscreen daily (even on cloudy days).
  • Keep your skin hydrated. Apply a moisturizer after cleansing and drink plenty of water (8 glasses a day).
  • Get plenty of sleep. It is recommended to get 7-9 hours of restful sleep a night to support overall skin health.
  • Eat a nutrient-rich diet. This doesn’t just positively impact your skin but your body as a whole.
  • Avoid smoking. This contributes to premature aging and wrinkling.

Remember, the path to healthy skin begins with commitment and consistency. Incorporate these practices into your routine and your skin will thank you.

Woman Skin Care RoutineSo, now that school is back in full swing, there’s no better time to establish (or re-establish) a skincare routine. This will not only help you to look your best but to feel it as well.

Here are some ways to do just that:

  • Use a facial cleanser that suits your skin type. Cleansing helps to remove any dirt, oil, and debris from the skin. Do this twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
  • Moisturize after cleansing. Regardless of your skin type, moisturizing is essential. It helps the skin maintain hydration and prevents it from becoming too oily.
  • Exfoliate 1-2 times a week. This helps to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote an overall brighter skin complexion.
  • Use an SPF of at least 30 daily. Sunscreen is very important in protecting the skin from harmful UV rays.
  • Drink plenty of water. Hydration is crucial in helping to maintain the skin’s overall health.
  • Eat a balanced diet (avoiding processed foods). Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are some of the best options for healthy skin.
  • Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep (less than 6 hours) can lead to dull, tired-looking skin and can even worsen some existing skin conditions.
  • Try to manage stress. High cortisol levels can contribute to a variety of skin issues. Exercise, meditation, and yoga are some great ways to combat stress.
  • Avoid touching your face. This can transfer dirt/bacteria to the skin.
  • Change pillowcases regularly. This is another place where dirt and bacteria can collect. Wash/change pillowcases (and sheets) every week.
  • Remove makeup before going to bed. Leaving makeup on overnight can cause the pores in the skin to become clogged and lead to breakouts. Use a gentle makeup remover.
  • Have an acne treatment plan. Ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are great in fighting acne. Seeing a dermatology provider will better help in developing a personalized plan.

Remember that consistency is key when it comes to skincare. Stick to the routine and be patient as it can take some time to see noticeable improvements in your skin. 

Winter Dry Skin

This time of year a big concern for a lot of patients is dry, dehydrated skin on the face. So, what are some things you can do to help or prevent it altogether? Below are some great ways to do just that.

  • Get a good facial moisturizer. We recommend either the SkinCeuticals Daily Moisture or SkinCeuticals Emollience (depending on your skin type).
  • Limit your time in the shower. The longer the shower the more of the skin’s natural (and necessary) oils are stripped which leads to dryness. Try limiting it to 5-10 minutes.
  • Use a humidifier. A humidifier will add moisture to the air helping the skin in the process.
  • Get a HydraFacial with a booster. The HydraFacial by itself does an amazing job in replenishing the skin’s moisture but add in a booster and it takes it to another level. The potent ingredients in boosters help to further target and treat specific skin care needs.

If the winter weather is causing your skin to dry out, contact the skincare professionals at Lisa S. Ball today.

Fall is here and that means leaves changing colors, cozy hoodies, and pumpkin everything. Despite some of those things that make the season so great, the cooler, drier weather that comes with them is not the best for our skin. That’s why this time of year, it’s important to adjust your skincare routine. Here are some ways to do just that:

  • Fall Woman Skin CareUse an exfoliator. Exfoliating helps to remove any dead skin cells, which in turn, improves the overall appearance of the skin. We recommend the SkinCeuticals Micro-Exfoliating Scrub because it’s gentle enough to use daily without causing any irritation to the skin.
  • Avoid long showers. Limit your time spent in the shower to 5-10 minutes. This will help minimize the removal of the skin’s natural oils which are crucial in preventing it from drying out.
  • Moisturize daily. This is important to do right after you get out of the shower as it helps to lock in any moisture. PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum is a great option as its buttery soft texture seals in moisture and helps to replenish any that may be needed. If extra hydration is needed, try using a heavier base cream.
  • Wear an SPF daily. Even though it’s typically not as sunny as other times of the year, harmful UV rays are still present and sunscreen should be worn at all times. We love the SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense SPF 30. Not only because it’s an effective sunscreen but it also helps in fading any skin discolorations.
  • Drink lots of water. It’s important not only to moisturize on the outside but on the inside as well. Staying hydrated will help flush out any toxins and promote overall healthier skin.

Follow these tips and your skin shouldn’t fall victim to the harsh weather of the season. If you do however find yourself with concerns, contact the skincare professionals at Lisa S. Ball NP today!

September is Healthy Aging Month, which is a great opportunity to focus on the overall well-being of your skin. Did you know that as we age, aside from those annoying fine lines and wrinkles that pop up, the risk for skin cancer also increases? The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates that by the age of 70, roughly 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer. Older Woman Gardening

That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of the health of your skin. Here are some ways to do just that:

  • Avoid the sun between 10am and 4pm. This is when the sun peaks in the sky and UV rays are at their strongest.
  • Wear sunscreen daily. Even on cloudy, winter days, harmful UV rays are still prevalent. We recommend our patients wear a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30, reapplying every two hours.
  • If outside for extended periods, wear a hat with a wide brim. This will not only provide shade for your face but also increased protection from sun exposure.
  • Regular skin examinations. We recommend our patients get their skin checked for any cancerous lesions at least once a year. Patients with a history of skin cancer are advised to be seen more frequently.
  • Avoid tanning. This one cannot be emphasized enough. Aside from increasing the risk of skin cancer, it can also contribute to speeding up the aging process.

These tips will not only help to keep your skin looking its best, but also decrease your risk of skin cancer. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call us at 716-688-0020 or click here.