Posted October 3, 2012
What Does Your Skin Need In October?
As Summer turns to Fall, we begin to take a closer look at our skin and even though we vowed to be better about using sunscreen, we all know that no one is perfect.
Perhaps you forgot to reapply after swimming or left the house in the morning without putting it on at all? How does your skin look after the summer season?
UV rays cause dull skin, breakouts, brown spots and fine lines. Its time to do damage control. Do you know what your skin needs now?
Your skin needs antioxidants.UV rays can penetrate a too thin layer of SPF or one that you have sweat off. This triggers your body to release radicals (molecules that break down collagen). As summer ends, damage can really accumulate.
Antioxidants stop radical damage, which should be your first level of protection. A great source can be a vitamin C serum.
Vitamin C fights radicals, prevents the formation of fine lines, and fades brown spots.Your skin needs extra exfoliation. Another downside of UV damage is that it slows your skins ability to shed dead skin layers. If you have not been using sunscreen or tend to not reapply, you will see a duller looking complexion, more breakouts (layers clog pores)and uneven skin tone (exfoliation buffs away extra pigment). The best option is to begin that series of
chemical peels that you have been putting off! Fall is the best time to start them–they will have you looking fresh for the season and upcoming holidays.Your skin needs sunscreen. This is your ultimate damage control. While you need it year round, it is most crucial at the end of summer when UV indexes peak. Make sure that yours has a broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection.
Your skin also needs retinoic acid. Vitamin A based antigens (specifically, retinoids and retinals) are a wonder ingredient that really does it all. By triggering the growth of skin-smoothing collagen and increasing cell turnover, it erases fine lines, fades brown spots and leaves your skin softer and smoother. The best option is to use a prescription retin-A.
Lastly, your skin needs hydration. UV rays, chlorine, and salt water can leave your skin dry and dehydrated. Parched skin also prompts your body to produce more oil (think breakouts) and more than doubles the rate at which wrinkles develop! The best option is hyaluronic acid. This hydrator naturally exists in your body. It is like a sponge and pulls moisture from the air into the skin.
Make sure to check your products and make sure that they have these amazing ingredients to ensure your skins health. Contact our office with any questions, concerns or to schedule a consultation.
Marci
Esthetician
Del Mar Plastic Surgery
