Sometimes it feels like our skin is not on our side. One day you look in the mirror and notice sagging skin or wrinkles that you swore you didn’t see yesterday.
Walking into a store or online, you’ll be bombarded with a litany of beauty products that all make big promises. To help you see things more clearly, here’s how to regain control of the situation.
1. Acne can be a sign of hormonal imbalance
What caused your acne as a teenager isn’t necessarily what’s causing your breakouts today. It is important to know this when choosing a treatment. In adolescence, acne may have been due to excessive sebum production, but with age it is often hormonal in origin. Hormonal acne in women often worsens with the menstrual cycle. Acne pimples usually appear closer to the jawline and chin, unlike teenage acne, which is often localized to the face and forehead.
Hormonal acne is often more inflammatory in nature (it’s deep and red), so the treatment is to calm the skin. Look for topical benzoyl peroxide, which targets Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne, says an article published in the Dermatology Times journal. If you have sensitive skin, products containing sulfur or willow bark can also help lighten the skin. Ultimately, your gynecologist and dermatologist can work closely together to regulate a disrupted hormonal cycle and achieve clearer skin.
2. Early signs of aging? Your skin cell turnover may be lagging
You need a product that boosts collagen and accelerates skin cell turnover. Retinoids remain the #1 collagen booster. Most retinoids are available by prescription, but weaker forms called retinols can be found over-the-counter. You may also consider an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) serum for cell renewal (some people are intolerant of AHAs). Ideally, start with a serum containing 5% AHA, then increase the concentrations as long as you tolerate it. Alternate retinoid and AHA in nighttime routine. Examples of AHAs are glycolic acid and lactic acid.
It goes without saying that good sun protection is essential to slow down premature aging. This includes daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (increase SPF 45 or 50 for prolonged or intense sun exposure, and reapply every two to four hours), wearing a wide-brimmed hat when in the sun, wearing wrap-around sunglasses, and seeking shade when possible, as recommended by the AAD.
3. Reddening may be the result of a compromised skin barrier
Treatment aimed at rebuilding this base is most important. Use a gentle, non-irritating face wash and moisturizer. Once the barrier is repaired, the skin will no longer be as prone to burning or stinging sensations, and many people find that they can tolerate a wider variety of products. Also look for products containing niacinamide, an anti-inflammatory ingredient that can calm sensitive complexions, as previous research suggests. While you’re tackling redness, you can also use cosmetics with a green tint, a color that neutralizes redness and can help give the appearance of more even skin.
4. Bags under the eyes can be a sign of a diet or lifestyle problem
Look for the source of the problem. Allergies, smoking and even eating too much salt can play a role in the appearance of bags under the eyes. But lack of sleep is a major culprit of this appearance, and while it’s a common occurrence, you may need to improve your sleep hygiene habits or prioritize sleep. In addition, there are a multitude of remedies to deflate these pockets. You have medications and surgical options available to you, so consult your dermatologist if these solutions are right for you. For a quicker fix, opt for eye creams that have a metal-tipped applicator. These creams provide a cooling surface (think chilled cucumber slices) that thickens. If you need extra coverage after a restless night, apply foundation.
5. Dry or cracked skin means your dermis is probably thirsty
With age, the skin begins to lose some of its moisture, according to a study published in the journal Mechanisms of Aging and Development. Worse still, a dehydrated dermis is more likely to show signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Still, think back to your tendency to grab the thickest moisturizer you can find, which can clog pores and cause acne. So, while it may seem counterintuitive, it’s best to opt for a lightweight moisturizer that has a more runny consistency.
6. Blushing, redness and visible blood vessels are all signs of rosacea.
Get checked out for this common skin disorder. Rosacea, which is chronic and its treatment goes far beyond applying creams to the face. The treatment is not limited to the application of creams on the face. The sooner you can treat rosacea, the better.
Which rosacea treatment is right for you?
If you think you have rosacea, your cheeks, nose, chin or forehead are constantly red or you notice small visible blood vessels, see a dermatologist. Treatment involves lifestyle changes to avoid triggers, such as reducing stress and limiting sun exposure, choosing fragrance-free skin products, and reducing overall skin care. skin. In-office treatments, such as intense pulsed light (IPL), may also be helpful.
7. Dark circles may have nothing to do with lack of sleep.
This is not going to be a popular answer, but genetics plays a huge role in under eye circles and it is something that is out of your control. However, you can lessen the discoloration with eye creams that contain brightening antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E. If the circles are more blue-gray, blood vessels may be showing through the thin skin. below the eye. In this case, a caffeinated product can help shrink blood vessels to lessen the appearance of dark circles.
8. Dark spots suggest your skin is suffering from sun damage.
First, maintain your sunscreen routine, as sun damage is the biggest culprit in age-related discoloration. Then, hydroquinone (HQ) remains the reference product to treat hyperpigmentation problems, because it inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme that produces pigments called melanin. Use a product that contains both HQ and AHAs.
Just be aware that HQ is a controversial ingredient and some people prefer to avoid it due to concerns about its safety or potential for irritation. (Researchers say there isn’t enough evidence to suggest this is the case, but the choice is yours). As an alternative, look for products containing licorice extract, azelaic acid, niacinamide or arbutin, ingredients known for their lightening properties.
9. If you have wrinkles, your skin’s collagen stores are low.
The goal is to boost collagen using products containing growth factors and peptides, which work deep down to strengthen the skin’s support structure, such as:
Aloe Vera
apple cider vinegar
the lawyer
coconut oil
Honey
Lavender
Olive oil
Vitamin C
10. Skin sags? You guessed it: Your face is crying out for a collagen cure
If you’re not ready for a facelift (and you may never be), topical creams can’t do it all. On the other hand, you may benefit from non-invasive treatment options with your dermatologist, such as ultrasonic skin-tightening devices. These devices stimulate the formation of collagen to reduce sagging skin. The result: a lifted appearance with less pain and no post-surgical recovery period.
