These general skin care tips from dermatologists can benefit just about everyone.
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Apply sunscreen every day before you go outdoors. Sunscreen is the closest thing we have to a fountain of youth. It really can slow down skin aging. It can also help prevent skin cancer. Look for a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection, SPF 30 (or higher), and water resistance.
While it’s important to protect infants’ skin from the sun, the AAD recommends applying sunscreen ONLY to children who are 6 months and older.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking speeds up how quickly your skin ages. If you smoke, your wounds will also take longer to heal. And research shows that smoking worsens some skin diseases, including psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa.
- Check your skin for skin cancer. Skin self-exams can help you find skin cancer early when it’s highly treatable. If you notice a spot that differs from the others, or one that changes, itches, or bleeds, make an appointment to see a dermatologist.
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Use a self-tanner if you like looking tanned. Anytime you tan indoors or outside, you prematurely age your skin. You also increase your risk of getting skin cancer. A self-tanner can give you the look you want without the risks. To keep your skin healthy, you want to protect it from the sun even when using a self-tanner.
- Use skin care products that match your skin’s needs. What’s your skin type — oily, dry, normal, combination, or sensitive? Do you have a skin condition? Using products formulated for your skin’s needs will help your skin look and feel its best.
