Keeping Your Skin Healthy: Advice from a Dermatologist

Dermatologists often see patients whose skin is not in optimal health. This could be due to an underlying medical condition, the effects of a chronic skin condition, or lifestyle choices that are contributing to unhealthy skin.

No matter what your skin condition, following a few simple tips can help you keep your skin healthy :

Protect your Skin from the Sun : Wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen—even on cloudy days—is the best way to prevent sun damage, premature aging of the skin, and skin cancer. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or excessive sweating.

Cleanse your Skin Regularly : Choose a gentle cleanser that won’t strip away natural oils and irritate your skin. Gently massage the product into your skin before rinsing with lukewarm water.

Use Gentle Cleansers : Using harsh cleansers on your skin can strip away its natural oils. This can cause dryness and irritation. Dermatologist in NJ suggests using mild, gentle cleansers on your skin. Opt for cleansers with natural ingredients like cucumber, aloe vera, and honey. These ingredients are effective but still gentle on your skin.

Moisturize your Skin Daily : Use a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type—oily, dry, or a combination. For best results, apply product immediately after cleansing when your skin is still damp.

Hydrate Your Skin : It’s important to keep your skin hydrated, as dehydration can lead to dryness and irritation. To keep your skin hydrated, make sure to drink plenty of water and use a good moisturizer daily. Avoiding hard soaps and long, hot showers can also help.

Avoid Excessive Touching : Touching your skin too much can introduce bacteria to your pores and cause breakouts. Try to avoid picking or popping pimples, as this can lead to infection or scarring.

Eat a Healthy Diet : Dermatologist Dr. Alexander Shraga says that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep your skin healthy and vibrant. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon also help nourish and protect the skin.

Quit Smoking : Smoking can have a devastating effect on the skin, leading to premature aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Exercise Regularly : Exercise can help improve circulation, which in turn can help nourish and protect the skin.

Limit the Use of Skin-Care Products : Too many skin care products can clog pores and irritate the skin. Use only products that are specifically formulated for your skin type and stop using them if they irritate your skin.

Keep Stress in Check : Stress has a negative effect on both the body and mind, and can contribute to skin conditions, including acne and other skin flare-ups. Take steps to reduce stress and stay healthy.

Get Regular Check-Ups : It’s a good idea to get a check-up from a dermatologist once a year, even if you don’t have any skin issues. A dermatologist can spot issues that you may not have noticed and can provide professional advice on any treatments you may need.

By following these tips from dermatologists, you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best. Taking the time to care for your skin now can help maintain a healthy glow and prevent long-term skin damage. If you have any questions or concerns about your skin health, consult with a dermatologist. The experienced professionals at the dermatology office can provide you with the best advice and treatment options to ensure you maintain healthy skin.