Dermatology: Skin Tips & Tricks

As we are amidst the cold season, it is imperative to take care of your skin accordingly. While there is cold air outside and hot air inside, the dry air everywhere disrupts the skin's barrier. This can mean more dry and itchy skin. When considering skin care products for the winter, there are a few helpful guidelines to follow that are dermatology approved.

Facial cleanser should put moisture into your skin, not take it out. You should look for products that say "gentle" or "moisturizing" on the label. Skin care also includes the skin below your neck. When considering body wash, the richer the better. While putting on any moisturizer, it is more effective to apply while the skin is still damp. This is because the moisturizer traps existing moisture in the skin. During the winter, it is dermatology recommended to be careful of strong, rejuvenating products, because they can dry the skin out. And even though it is winter, it is still important to wear your sunscreen!

Did you know that your skin is the largest organ in your body?

Dermatology Tips to Maintain Healthy Skin

1. Wear sunscreen daily. Dermatology says that sunscreen is the most important thing we can do for our skin, protecting our skin from UV rays. Sunscreen helps protect against sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging.
2. Avoid tanning beds. Just like the sun, tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that is dangerous to the skin. If you want a nice golden glow, it is recommended to use self-tanning products instead.
3. Simplify your skin care routine. Too many products could irritate your skin. Instead, focus the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Follow this simple skin care routine twice a day.
4. Choose skin care products formulated for your skin type. It is important to identify and understand your skin type in order to learn how to best take care of your skin, and even what products to use.
   • Sensitive skin may sting or burn after product use
   • Normal skin is not too dry and not too oily
   • Dry skin tends to be flaky, itchy, or rough
   • Oily skin tends to be shiny and greasy
   • Combination skin tends to be dry in some areas and oily in others, or changes with the seasons
5. Treat your lips. Often, it is unknown that skin cancer could come from the lips, so make sure to use lip balm with SPF. If your lips are dry, apply petroleum jelly for added moisture.
6. Don't touch your face. Hands often have dirt, germs, and oils that are transferred to the face when we touch it. Avoid picking and popping as well, because this can cause scarring and can spread bacteria.
7. Check your skin regularly. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, affecting one in five Americans in their lifetime. Check your skin for new spots, spots that appear different or have changed, or ones that itch or bleed. If you find anything concerning, make an appointment with your dermatologist today.
8. Stress less. It is always important to find healthy ways to manage your stress, but it is also imperative for healthy, vital skin. Often, stress causes flare ups of skin conditions.

Preston's Pharmacy Recommendations

Preston's Pharmacy recommends over-the-counter products for the best, healthy skin. For sunscreen, use a sunscreen with SPF 50+ for best protection. We recommend the self-tanner, Tan Luxe. Tan Luxe has a dropper product where drops of the self-tanner are placed in your preferred moisturizer and applied to the skin. The best cleansers are ones that are fragrance free and gentle, such as Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. Use La Roche-Posay as your moisturizer, which has built in sunscreen. For lip products, use the Aquaphor product that has built in sunscreen. And stay hydrated! Staying hydrated with electrolytes that contain magnesium or potassium, instead of LMNT electrolytes, can help reduce mental and physical stress on the body.

If you are struggling to find the best products for your skin, talk to your dermatologist or trusted esthetician today about compounded skin care products. Made right in the pharmacy, these compounded products are created specifically for you and your needs. Preston's Pharmacy already offers many commonly compounded medications for dermatology purposes, such as Scar Gel, Skin Lightening, Warts, Eczema, Acne Treatment, Hair Growth, Anti-Aging, and more. Call or visit our website today for more information!