Tips for Keeping Your Skin Healthy and Protected During the Summer : Avisheh Forouzesh, MD: Infectious Disease Specialist

14 Tips for Clear & Glowing Skin

14 Tips for Clear & Glowing Skin by Maciej Lipa

Everyone has skin impurities. Acne doesn't only affect teenagers. Men and women of all ages can get acne. Acne is popular, but others like eczema and rosacea affect many as well.

Don't forget the different types of acne too. You may notice whiteheads, blackheads, blemishes, or more severely, deep cysts.

It's a popular topic. It's why you're bombarded with skincare messages all the time. "The best skincare routine" "Try this product to get rid of acne" "Drink more water". They may help, but what does it really take to achieve clear skin?

We are bringing you 14 somewhat easy tips to answer the question above.

(Set yourself a goal. Make all 14 a habit)

1. Cleanse Your Face Twice A Day

If you have oily skin and are prone to breakouts, make sure that you're cleansing your face twice a day. Once in the morning, once in the evening.

According to top dermatologists, washing your face twice a day is the "magic number". People tend to think the more the better, but this isn't the case.

It can be overwhelming finding the "perfect" cleanser. You're presented with expensive options. Ones that are packed with fragrances and ingredients.

They may seem fancy, but sometimes the less, the better. This is exactly what our Pumpkin Enzyme Cleanser provides to you. Packed with natural goodness and leaves your skin looking youthful.

2. Apply a Serum

This one is often overlooked. People apply their cleanser and moisturizer and call it finish for their skincare routine.

A serum is like a "secret weapon" for treating your skincare issues. When gently, applied you'll feel the benefits almost instantly.

Applying a serum like our Blemish Repair Serum can be beneficial in many ways:

Soothes skin irritation

Reduces skin inflammation

Helps to clear your pores

Protects your skin from free radicals and future damage

3. Create Your Own Skincare Routine

If you want to achieve a clear and glowing complexion, it's important to create your own skincare routine.

All people have different skin types. Find out your skin type and tailor all your products to the needs of your skin.

An effective routine can help prevent acne, treat wrinkles and ultimately give your skin that 'glow' complexion.

Start by gently cleansing your skin , then add some moisture and finally apply a nourishing serum to finish your routine with magic.

4. Sleep Well

Not getting your 7-9 hours of quality sleep may also cause your skin to break out more often.

During sleep, your body rejuvenates. When you're beauty sleeping, your body produces collagen (a protein vital for healthy skin)

According to some research , getting enough rest makes wrinkles less visible and gives you a glowing complexion. You'll feel the benefits physically too.

Get your 7-9 hours of sleep each night and experience the benefits both on the inside and out.

5. Don't Neglect Your Self-Pampering

No, it's not selfish to indulge in some "me-time" and take care of yourself. Actually, the time can be valuable. It can limit stress and provide your skin with a glowing feel.

Sit back, apply a hydrating face mask and let the natural goodness moisture your skin in a soothing way. Why not sip on a herbal tea whilst this process happens?

It's not only about applying a face mask. Do what works for you. Exfoliate, apply an eye mask or even have an at home steaming session.

6. Drink your H20

Ok, you hear this one all the time, but it's probably the most important. Make sure you're drinking your water.

The more hydrated you are, the better you feel. High levels of water intake is also directly linked to clear and glowing skin. When you don't hydrate your body, it could result in dry and flaky skin.

When you're getting your 2 litres a day, it's the opposite. It'll effortlessly bring that 'glow' feel to your appearance.

7. Practice Stress-Relieving Activities

In a 2003 study, researchers found that students had acne-flare ups during exam periods. A period in which students report more stress.

It is said to be directly correlated, as cells that produce sebum (an oily substance) have receptors for stress hormones.

Some stress-relieving activities for you:

Take a few deep breaths

Practice some yoga or meditation

Participate in your favourite sport

Exercise at your local gym

Read your favourite book

Jump starting positive change in your life is also a great stress-reliever.

8. Eat Your Skin-Friendly Foods

We know that bad nutrition can result in weight gain, damage our organs and make us feel groggy, but what you eat also affects your skin.

Research suggests that foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and other antioxidants may benefit your skin.

Some foods that give your skin that 'glow' look:

Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna etc)

Berries

Nuts

Spinach and other green leafy vegetables

Sweet potatoes

9. Avoid Touching Your Face

You're probably doing it without realising. You could be relaxing at home, but you feel the temptation to touch something. Somehow your hands automatically touch your face.

Your hands and face don't always have a close relationship. Your hands contain a lot of dirt, oil and bacteria. When you touch your face, you pass this bacteria to your face.

Unless you're cleansing, moisturizing or even applying sunscreen, try to not touch your face. (If you find it too difficult, make sure you're washing your hands often)

10. Clean Your Phone

This one ties in beautifully with the above. Quite like your hands, your mobile phone carries a lot of bacteria.

If you're noticing breakouts on your cheeks, it could be a sign that your mobile phone needs a deep-cleanse. Wipe your entire phone with an antibacterial wipe and kill all the germs regularly.

Your phone is close to your cheeks when you take calls, so you can't neglect to give it a good wipe.

11. Change Your Bed Covers Regularly

You spend 7-9 hours every night sleeping. When your pillowcase isn't washed regularly, you're transferring the build-up of bacteria from your pillowcase to your face. This causes clogged pores and breakouts.

This is called Acne mechanica, according to Dr. David E. Bank. A type of acne caused by materials or objects touching your face.

Make sure you're keeping your bed covers fresh. Change them every week.

12. Make Working Out A Habit

If you're not already working out, try to make it a habit. Working out has its physical and mental benefits, but exercise can also make your skin complexion shine.

When you exercise, your body stimulates blood circulation and pumps oxygen and healthy nutrients to your skin.

It doesn't take extreme effort as well. Start with exercising for 20-30 minutes a day.

Do your daily exercise and let your body naturally produce the goodness that your skin needs.

13. Wear Sunscreen

Too much exposure to the sun can damage your skin. The sun produces ultraviolet radiation which causes DNA changes in the skin.

In the long run, these ultraviolet rays can cause premature ageing of the skin, wrinkles, liver spots and even sunburn (If your skin is sensitive).

These risks are easily prevented with sunscreen. By applying sunscreen daily, you're making your skin superior to the sun.

14. Switch Up Your Makeup Routine

Sometimes, makeup products can aggravate your skin problems. Especially if you're using chemical-based products to cover up signs of acne.

If you're a makeup lover, switch up your makeup routine. Use more natural-based products. Use products that are designed to let your pores breathe more.

Don't forget... Make sure you're removing all your makeup before you go to sleep. Doing so reduces the risks of breakouts.

Final Thoughts

There are a lot of techniques for attaining clear skin from at home.

How to get clear skin: 13 tips, products, and tools

See more Disclaimer If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on Health Guide are underpinned by peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Many people find it challenging to maintain clear skin. The methods that are right for your skin may be different from someone else’s because of varying skin types, environment, lifestyle, and genetics.

Still, there are some habits known to be better for your skin and promote clear skin. Keep reading to learn 13 tips to help get clear skin.

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1. Use the right face wash for your skin

There are many different types of face cleansers available, and trying to find the right cleanser for your skin can feel overwhelming. Research suggests most people believe their acne is caused by improper cleaning and turn to self-treatments using harsh cleansers (Levin, 2016).

However, harsh cleansers may contribute to increased skin irritation and aggravate acne. It was previously believed vigorous cleansing helped remove excess oil, but it may actually contribute to excess oil production, dryness, and irritation (Mukhopadhyay, 2011).

It’s recommended to wash with warm water and a mild cleanser designed for acne-prone skin that doesn’t leave your skin feeling tight after washing. Sometimes a dermatologist will recommend a cleanser with benzoyl peroxide to help clear skin because it helps kill bacteria and remove excess skin cells and sebum (oil).

2. Use a cleansing brush

A gentle cleansing device helps wash the skin and gently exfoliate without being too rough on the skin. Washcloths, towels, loofahs, and some sponges may be too coarse for your skin, leading to damage and irritation.

Instead, consider a silicone face brush which has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment option (Gold, 2019). Additionally, some types of silicone brushes are antibacterial, meaning they are less likely to be colonized by bacteria that can cause breakouts.

3. Wash your face every night

Washing your face once or twice a day is important for maintaining clean skin. It’s vital to wash your face in the evening after exposure to makeup, dirt, oil, and air pollution (Gold, 2019).

Research suggests the number of times per day you should be cleansing is somewhat individual (Mukhopadhyay, 2011). So consider testing periods of cleansing once daily and twice daily to see how your results vary.

4. Don’t irritate your skin

While pimple popping videos may be popular, that doesn’t mean it’s the best thing you can do for your skin. You should save extractions and the removal of pimples for professionals who use sterile instruments. Picking at your skin and popping pimples can actually make your skin worse and lead to scars.

Try to limit the time you spend touching your face, especially if you haven’t washed your hands recently, since this can increase your chances of introducing bacteria to your skin, causing acne.

5. Try retinoids

Retinoids are medications derived from vitamin A and are often recommended to help with acne. Some forms like tretinoin (see Important Safety Information) require a prescription from a dermatologist to use because of its strength. There are other types of lower strength retinol available over the counter to add to your skincare routine.

Retinoids may increase collagen production and skin cell turnover. Benefits include improved acne, reduced acne scarring, and improvements in fine lines and wrinkles (Chien, 2018).

6. Exfoliate your skin

Exfoliating your skin helps to remove dead skin cells, debris, and other buildup that could end up clogging your pores. When these sit on your skin for too long, they may end up blocking pores leading to breakouts. They also can make skin look dull, flaky, and patchy.

Consider using gentle exfoliants to help remove dead skin cells, such as:

Glycolic acid

Lactic acid

Salicylic acid

Start by using a gentle exfoliant and only use it once or twice each week. If it’s too strong, your skin isn’t used to chemical exfoliants, or you’re over-exfoliating, it could cause redness and irritation.

Exfoliants are available in scrubs, toners, serums, and other treatments.

7. Wear sunscreen

Wearing broad-spectrum sunscreen is an essential skincare practice to protect the skin from sun damage. Sun damage can cause the skin to age more rapidly and could also lead to skin cancer. It’s extra important for people undergoing acne treatments to wear sunscreen because many of the products used to treat acne increase the skin’s sensitivity to sun damage. It’s recommended to wear at least an SPF 30 sunblock.

8. Eat a healthy diet

Research suggests too much sugar is linked with worsening acne symptoms. There may be a mild link between dairy and acne symptoms (Kucharska, 2016). The impact between diet and acne is still not fully clear. Still, a healthy diet supports your overall health and wellness.

9. Try blue light therapy

Light therapy uses different light wave frequencies to help the skin. Blue light has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects to help calm the skin (Pei, 2015). There are some at-home light therapy treatments available, or you can try an in-office treatment.

10. Clean makeup brushes regularly

Your makeup brushes and sponges can become the home for a lot of bacteria that cause breakouts. Be sure to wash makeup brushes at least once a week or keep multiple brushes to alternate use between washes.

Using clean makeup brushes prevents the spread of bacteria that could be stopping your acne from clearing up.

11. Get enough sleep

The exact relationship between sleep quality and acne is poorly understood. Still, there is some evidence to suggest poor sleep quality increases the chances of blemishes.

Prioritizing your sleep helps to promote better skin and your overall well-being.

12. Stay hydrated

Carrying a water bottle with you may help your skin appear clearer. Research suggests drinking water helps hydrate the skin and reduces the signs of dry skin (Akdeniz, 2018). Drinking water throughout the day may help keep skin cells healthier and improve their appearance.

13. Use a moisturizer

Regardless of your skin type, you can benefit from using the right type of moisturizer on your face after cleansing. There’s a common misconception that people with oily skin should avoid adding moisture to their skin. But keeping your skin hydrated helps to control excess oil (sebum) and protects the skin.

The right moisturizer will vary based on your skin’s needs. Dryer skin may benefit from a thicker cream, while oily skin may benefit from a lightweight, oil-free moisturizing gel.

When choosing the right moisturizer for your skin, look for:

Non-comedogenic products, meaning they are less likely to clog pores causing blemishes and blackheads

Oil-free products if you have oily skin

Fragrance-free products, since fragrances can cause irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin

See a dermatologist or esthetician

Sometimes it helps to get an expert opinion on your skin’s needs. A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in skin, hair, and nail conditions. An esthetician is a professional who specializes in skincare treatments.

If you’re struggling with your skin, it can be a good idea to make an appointment with one or both types of professionals. A dermatologist can diagnose skin conditions and treat medical conditions. An esthetician can help support your acne treatment through facials, extractions, and treatments to help maintain clear skin. You don’t have to struggle alone with your skin concerns. Getting a professional opinion on your skin and skincare routine helps you determine the best care for your skin.

Tips for Keeping Your Skin Healthy and Protected During the Summer : Avisheh Forouzesh, MD: Infectious Disease Specialist

Now that the much-anticipated summer season is finally in full swing, you’re probably doing everything you can to make the most of longer days, warmer temperatures, and consistent sunshine.

But even if there’s nothing quite as enjoyable as shedding your layers to hit the beach and soak up some rays, spending too much time in the sun can harm your skin and increase your risk of developing skin cancer.

While it’s true that exposing your skin to 10-15 minutes of sunlight each day is the best way to boost your vitamin D levels, the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can also damage your unprotected skin in as little as 15 minutes.

Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to keep your skin healthy and protect it from the harmful UV rays through the warm summer months and beyond. Here are a few of our best tips.

Apply (and reapply) sunscreen

Including sunscreen in your daily skin care routine is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your skin in the summertime, when the days are longer, the sun’s rays are more intense, and you’re more likely to spend a substantial amount of time outdoors.

If it’s cloudy or you don’t plan to be outside much, a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher offers ample protection. But if you plan to spend a good amount time in the sun, go higher — opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Proper application means using enough sunscreen to thoroughly cover all areas of exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, the backs of your hands, and the tops of your feet if you’re wearing open shoes.

Because sunscreen wears off over time and in the water, reapply it every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

Avoid the midday sun

Easier said than done, right? Still, when it comes to protecting your skin and keeping it as healthy as possible through the hot summer months, you can really up your game by staying inside — or at least in the shade — between 10am and 4pm, when harmful UV rays are more intense and direct.

While staying in the shade is incredibly helpful when your plans take you outside in the middle of the day, you should still wear sunscreen to protect your exposed skin from the UV light that can still reach your skin.

Cover up!

Another way to protect your skin from harmful UV rays — and avoid having to apply large quantities of sunscreen every day — is by wearing clothes and accessories that provide more complete coverage.

Stay cool and protect your skin when the temperatures soar by wearing clothes made of tightly-woven, breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Choose loose and lightweight long-sleeved shirts, pants, or longer skirts instead of tank tops and shorts, and don’t forget to shield the skin on your face with a wide-brimmed hat.

Keep yourself well-hydrated

While you should always strive to keep yourself adequately hydrated, it’s especially important in the summertime, when hot, humid days accelerate water loss, leaving both your body and your skin prone to easy dehydration.

Contrary to popular belief, staying hydrated doesn’t require you to keep track of how much water you consume throughout the day. Instead, simply go by the color of your urine — if it’s clear or light yellow, you’re hydrated, but if it’s cloudy or dark yellow, you’re dehydrated. Aim to keep the color of your urine as light as possible all day, every day.

Although all liquids count toward your fluid intake, water is always a healthier choice than soda, juice, or any other sugary drink. If you’re craving carbonation, try seltzer water. If you’d like a bit more flavor, try squeezing some fresh lemon, lime, or orange juice to your glass.

And don’t forget that your diet can also help you stay hydrated, provided you eat plenty of produce. Besides being a good source of water, summer staples like cantaloupe, watermelon, blueberries, cucumbers, and tomatoes are also rich in the kinds antioxidants that promote collagen renewal in your skin.

Cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, repeat

Gentle and thorough skin cleansing is more important than ever in the summertime, when sweat, sunscreen, chlorine, sand, and other environmental contaminants clog the surface of your skin with dulling debris.

Daily exfoliation helps clear your pores, allowing better surface hydration from moisturizers and lotions. If you forget to wear sunscreen one day, skip the exfoliation process and soothe your overexposed skin with aloe or another soothing botanical lotion formulated to reduce redness and inflammation.

To find out how you can protect your skin and keep it healthy all year long, call our AIDM office in Hoboken, New Jersey today. Or you can use the easy online tool to schedule a visit with Dr. Forouzesh any time.