1. Think Beyond The Obvious
It may sound surprising, but if a rash occurs on one area of your body, it could be a reaction to a product used somewhere else entirely. If you suspect you may have a skin allergy, ask your GP to refer you to a dermatologist, who can then test if there's anything you may be reacting to.
2. Get Your Vitamin D
Our skin is one of the main producers of vitamin D, the importance of which is becoming increasingly recognised. Sunshine stimulates production, but if you regularly use a high-protection sunscreen, vitamin D levels can be topped up by eating fortified cereals, fish and eggs, or with a vitamin supplement.
3. Tackle The Two Types Of Ageing
Dermatologists divide ageing into two areas: ‘intrinsic’ ageing refers to skin changes that are due to the passing of time, while ‘extrinsic’ changes are down to external factors, such as sun exposure and smoking - wrinkles and liver spots are typically caused by one or both of these. Many treatments can reduce extrinsic damage - for example, pigmentation spots can be treated with retinoid creams or intense pulsed light (IPL). Speak to a dermatologist to determine the best options for you.
Sensitivity often occurs when the skin’s protective barrier against irritants and germs becomes impaired. Be careful when using perfumed products, like soap, or look out for pH-balanced cleansers instead, as these are far less likely to cause irritation. Try non-irritating range of cleansers and moisturisers.
5. Resist The Urge To Squeeze
Blackheads are a mild form of acne, and squeezing them can cause damage and inflammation, so try to resist. Certain agents will unblock pores - try products containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
6. Listen To Your Skin
As we age, our skin naturally becomes drier as reduced barrier function means that moisture escapes. Your skin will tell you it it’s healthy or not - if it feels uncomfortable, tight or dry, moisturise it more regularly.
7. Reconsider Your Cleansing Regime
Cleansers remove dirt, bacteria and dead skin cells, while moisturisers replenish, protect and rehydrate the skin type. However, toners tend to pick up where a cleanser stops, exfoliating a little more. Oily skin may benefit from this, but sensitive skin might not as toners can be astringent. If you have a complexion that’s prone to irritation, you might want to skip it.
8. Understand Moisturisers
Occlusive moisturisers help to reduce water loss from your skin, so check labels for ingredients like fatty acids, vegetable oils and petrolatum. Similarly, look out for “humectants”, including glycerine and urea. These attract water, and can even hydrate your skin using moisture in the atmosphere if it’s humid enough.
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