How to Think Like a Dermatologist

Everywhere you look you see beautiful people with flawless skin. If you’re like me, you wonder how, what, where and why they have such gorgeous skin—especially if you know that one or two of these beautiful people have lifestyles that may, in a word, be skin-challenging.

It doesn’t help that every time you log on to your computer you see an ad for the newest skin cream that “definitely” erases wrinkles. Promises, promises, promises. Plus, it seems like you need a degree in biophysics to decipher all the new ingredients that are appearing daily in the latest lotions and potions.
The good news is that the industry is on your side. Skin care in general is headed for better, more effective treatments that are targeted to specific issues. Think about it: all those executives at the beauty companies are aging and they want to look younger longer, too. And, of course, looking younger begins with beautiful skin, so, there’s a lot of money being devoted to R&D so we can all look our best.
In this continuing series, I’ll give you tips and insight on how to think like a dermatologist. You will learn what’s hot and what’s not, office procedures, new creams, new ingredients, and new at-home skin devices. Plus, I will recommend cheap alternatives to products and treatments that you can do yourself at home, including recipes for skin care made from what’s in your fridge and pantry. And, finally, we will talk: “Prevention!” I’ll give you advice on how to look better than you feel so you can feel better.
So, let’s kick off with a few basic guidelines:

• Wear sunscreen every day. You’ll never get sick of this advice. Sun damage is not a pretty sight. Think wrinkles, loss of elasticity, pigmentation and dryness; and in some cases, it can be downright deadly. Get a broad Spectrum UVA/UVB product with an SPF of 30 or above. Use it. And do not leave your home without it!
• Use a retinoid at night. Want to prevent wrinkles and other signs of premature aging? This vitamin-A derivative is your clinically proven friend.
• Eat a diet filled with fruits and vegetables. You are what you eat, so why not nibble your way to beautiful skin? Pack in the antioxidants to fight free radicals and prevent inflammation. Science says: it will make a difference.
• Build a pyramid of skin care that forms the building blocks for you as you age. Start practicing good habits in your 20’s; like eating right, exercising, and using sunscreen; add more in your 30’s, like regular exfoliation and applying antioxidants, and so on. As you get older, keep building on those healthy habits you’ve already adopted. A consistent, quality skin care regimen is the single best step you can take to maintain youthful, healthy skin.