We often do more damage to our skin and complexion while having the best of intentions. So, take this to heart; often times, less is more. The following steps listed below will help salvage some previous wrong doings.
Change your mindset
Retrain your skin care habits to think about longevity, not quick fixes. Once you’ve made this mindset shift, you’re better able to tend to your skin, instead of attacking it. Don’t exfoliate or use harsh active ingredients during a time of sensitivity, even if you want to work on your deeper-set wrinkles or treat a blemish. No active ingredient will be able to deliver on their promise if the skin is already irritated. Instead, soothe the skin and it will return to optimizing its own self-healing functions.
Steps to take;
- Have a weekly exfoliation regimen, and stick to it, even when you’re tempted to add in an extra potent peel during a breakout.
- Understand that your skin simply cannot tolerate retinol every day, even if you want to utilize its anti-wrinkle properties.
- Only use your tonic every other or third day, and of course, it means wielding anti-inflammatory and soothing ingredients with as much verve and gusto as you do exfoliating products.
Stop the overdoing
There are many things to consider when you are looking at skin barrier health. The first is related to the above habit; stop overdoing it. For many people, they actively have to strengthen their barriers by applying nurturing hydrators, feeding the skin microbiome, and replenishing the skin’s natural reserves of ceramides.
Steps to take;
- You should look for skin care items full of natural fatty acids, antioxidants, and emollients to help strengthen the epidermis. You should also consider biotic skin care (like pre-, pro-, and post-biotics), which can help your flora flourish.
- Consider ceramide supplements, which can help your body replenish your reserves naturally. Ceramides act as the sealant in your skin, keeping the water in and blocking the irritants out. Studies show that phytoceramide supplements are particularly effective at keeping skin hydrated.
Prioritize the rest of your skin too
Make your body care routine as appealing as your facial routine. This means finding lavishly textured, smartly formulated products you can’t help but crave to apply. Find formulas that use clean, kind, and potent ingredients. Simply put: Show some of the love you so typically lavish on your face to the rest of your body.
This is particularly true for your hands. We know your hands are dealing with a lot right now, between the increased washing and sanitizers, and they likely need as much help as they can get. Find hand soups that are buffered with oils and hydrators, and carry around a decedent hand cream, just like you likely carry a lip balm or, now, mask.
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications, consult with your doctor before starting a supplement routine. It is always optimal to consult with a health care provider when considering what supplements are right for you.