Patient education is a foundational principle of SkinMD. That’s why we have curated this list of our top tips for keeping healthy skin. All of these tips are easy to implement and affordable, from wearing sunscreen daily, knowing your skin type, and avoiding tanning beds. Most of these tips will not be a surprise but rather a gentle reminder to take care of your skin, the largest organ in your body!
Wear sunscreen daily
Applying sunscreen daily is one of the best things you can do for maintaining healthy skin. When applied correctly, sunscreen protects your skin against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. These are the same rays that cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging. Looking to prevent wrinkles and age spots? Wear sunscreen. For the best protection, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing. Then reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. To save time in your skincare routine, you can consider using a moisturizer that also contains sunscreen.
However, while cosmetics that contain sunscreen are convenient, remember to reapply them in order to achieve the best sun protection. Keep in mind that since no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UV rays, it’s also important to seek shade and wear sun-protective clothing when outdoors. This includes lightweight long-sleeved shirts, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses with UV protection. For more effective sun protection select clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) label.
Know your skin type
Choosing skin care products formulated for your skin type is another way to keep your skin healthy. Understanding your skin type will help you learn how to take care of your skin and select skin care products that are right for you. As mentioned above, here’s how to identify and understand your skin type:
- Sensitive skin: May sting or burn after product use
- Normal skin: Clear and not sensitive
- Dry skin: Flaky, itchy, or rough
- Combination skin: Dry in some areas and oily in others
- Oily: Shiny and greasy
Simplify your skincare routine
Less is more when it comes to skincare and achieving healthy skin. Using too many products, especially multiple anti-aging products, can irritate your skin. Instead, focus on the basics, such as a gentle cleanser, sunscreen, and moisturizer. Establish morning and nighttime skincare routines that work well for your skin, and stick with them.
Stay out of tanning beds
Just like the sun, tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that causes skin cancer. In fact, even one indoor tanning session can increase your risk of developing melanoma by 20%, squamous cell carcinoma by 67%, and basal cell carcinoma by 29%. If you want that golden glow, achieve it with self-tanning products instead. When applied correctly, self-tanners look natural and won’t give you orange skin, streaks, or splotches.
Treat your lips
Since skin cancer can form on the lips, apply a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outdoors. If your lips feel chapped or dry, apply petroleum jelly for added moisture.
Keep your hands off your face
Touching your face can be a habit, but it is worth avoiding for several reasons. Whenever you touch your face, you transfer dirt, germs, and oil from your hands to your face. Do your best to leave your skin alone throughout the day. Avoid picking, popping, or squeezing pimples, as this can cause scarring. Your hands can also transmit germs to your mouth, making it easier to get sick.
Check your skin regularly
Keeping your skin cancer-free is essential for your health. Unfortunately, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., affecting one in five Americans in their lifetime. Further, nearly 20 Americans die from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, every day. However, when detected early, skin cancer—including melanoma—is highly treatable. In fact, the five-year survival rate for people whose melanoma is detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes is 98%.
It is important to check your skin regularly for new spots, spots that are different from other spots on your body, or moles that itch, bleed, or change color, as these are often early warning signs of skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious spots, make an appointment to see a SkinMD provider.
