Our battle with skincare often begins during tender teen years when it seems blemishes pop up at the worst times. Then, as we age, our concerns shift to wrinkles and age spots. Dr. Melissa Morgan, board certified dermatologist, lays out the best plan of attack to discover perfect skin.
The sheer number of options available makes finding the right product for your individual needs overwhelming. Drugstore shelves are lined with the latest and greatest skincare lotions and potions. However, Morgan advises a gentle formula is best.
“Cetaphil, CeraVe, Aveeno and Neutragena cleanser, lotions and sunscreens are excellent over-the-counter skin care products,” shares Morgan.
Armed with the right tools, Morgan says perfection is found in simplicity. Start with a gentle cleansing. Aggressive products and scrubbing can damage your skin.
“Physical exfoliants, like net sponges, loofa sponges or any type of exfoliating scrub or brush, can damage the top layer of skin which compromises the barrier function of the skin,” explains Morgan.
Follow the gentle cleanse with moisturizer from head to toe, and, most importantly, protect skin from sun exposure.
“Eighty percent of how our skin ages is due to sun exposure,” cautions Morgan. “Damage from ultraviolet light accumulates over time and leads to pre-mature aging and increase risk of skin cancer.
“Sun damage is much easier to prevent than it is to repair,” adds Morgan.
If you have a persistent skin issue, it might be best to see a dermatologist, says Morgan.
