Developing a Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin
With the summer months around the corner, for individuals with sensitive skin, it’s important to create a skincare regimen that’s right for you. Living in an area like New Jersey, with some of the most volatile weather patterns and fluctuations, a skincare regimen is especially important, as you truly don’t know how things will be from one day to the next. Some summers, you might have a week of temperatures in the mid-to-upper 90’s and then go a week straight with rain and temperatures in the 60’s, or even worse yet, during the spring, we might experience days where the afternoon high is 80 and sunny, but the night becomes cloudy and in the upper 40’s. With such unpredictable weather patterns and an area with the coldest of winters and the warmest of summers, those with sensitive skin can find it difficult to maintain, clean, clear, blemish-free skin, year-round. According to Dr. Sandra Kopp, or Nova Dermatology, considered to be the best dermatologist Cherry Hill has to offer, this is why its vital that we create a solid skincare routine and stick to it. The problem is that with such environmental changes, those with sensitive skin will deal with issues ranging from itchiness, redness and dryness, to skin allergies and unwanted reactions to airborne particles, weather and chemicals found in skincare products. And with so many different products out there, it can be quite difficult to find out what is best for you and your skin and what products we should stay away from. Considering this, Dr. Kopp, the best dermatologist Cherry Hill has in practice, recommends that patients get the basics down before trying to use products with more advanced compounds and skincare treatments that might just as easily irritate the skin, rather than to treat it.
When it comes to creating a skincare regimen that works for you, its important to start with the basics. The basic four aspects of any skincare regimen are broken down into the following – a face wash or cleanser, a skin treatment cream, a moisturizer to add hydration, and a skin protectant to help fight off environmental pollutants and severe sunlight. Here are some basic things to make sure of when it comes to these four pillars of skincare.
· Skin Cleanser
When it comes to your skincare regimen, a cleanser or face wash is a vital first step. A quality skincare cleanser is one that will help patients to remove unwanted particles of oil, dirt, debris, bacteria and things like makeup and yesterday’s skincare products. For individuals with more sensitive skin, it is advised that you go with liquid cleansers, and stay aware from bar soaps – for both the face and body. Its best to stick with cleansing creams, lotions, or oils that are specially formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid liquid cleansers with suds, as they can be extra harsh and irritate your skin.
· Creams or Serum Treatment
Once your skin is washed and clean, it is important that we apply some type of a cream or serum treatment product as the first layer. According to the best dermatologist Cherry Hill has practicing, Dr. Kopp, the best products are those that contain high concentrations of skin-boosting ingredients like antioxidants, vitamins, and peptides, these products should be applied after cleansing but before moisturizing so your clean skin can absorb the benefits. Because they’re concentrated, serums can be quite potent and contain different ingredients depending on what skin issue you’re trying to improve. However, they are great to use on a regular basis even if you don’t have any specific skin concerns. Serums containing vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are beneficial for any skin type, and can particularly help people with sensitive skin.
· Skin Repairing Moisturizers
This is an essential part of any good skincare routine as it provides our skin with the moisture and hydration it needs. Those with sensitive skin are far more likely to suffer from dry, flaky skin – therefore hydration is even more important for them. Its best to avoid lotions, and stick to heavier creams, as they work to hydrate the skin far better. Also, make sure to find products that are non-comedogenic and free of fragrances and preservatives – so as to prevent clogged pores and irritated skin.
· Skin Protectant
This is considered to be the finishing touch or final layer of any good skincare regimen. Generally, patients should make sure that their final layer is a strong sunscreen, as overexposure to the sun is one of the worst things for the skin – especially those with sensitive skin. Look for sunscreens containing only zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, known as physical or mineral sunscreens. Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide create a physical barrier on the skin, preventing the sun’s rays from getting through, and they can be a lot easier to tolerate. They should be broad spectrum with SPF 30 or higher, and non-comedogenic. Wear sunscreen every single day, regardless of rain or shine, because UV rays will come through clouds and windows and damage skin no matter what the weather’s like.
For more information on skincare issues and sensitive skin, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kopp, be sure to contact Nova Dermatology today.
