Tag Archive for: dryness

Is the city ruining your skin?

We all know the common skin culprits when it comes to breakouts what the causes including,  bacteria and oil, hormones, and certain foods or medications. Have you ever thought about where we live to be some of the main contributing factors to some of our skin woe’s?

Big City Skin – The Issues:

Pollution

According to Dr. Goldfaden, pollution and smog in big cities can clog pores, but also lead to dryness in the winter. Additionally, the free radicals in the ozone layer of smog can cause premature aging, such as wrinkles and loss of elasticity, and those who live in highly polluted urban areas are at higher risk of developing eczema and rashes, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Vitamin D absorption

Atmospheric pollution has been shown to block the absorption of UVB needed by skin to make the Vitamin D so crucial for our overall skin health and proper functioning. “This is where vitamin D comes in: rates of cell division and differentiation are triggered by growth factors and other molecules that are controlled by the presence of vitamin D” say’s Dr. G. If adequate amounts of vitamin D are not available, your epidermal cells won’t differentiate optimally. As a result, the outer layer of your skin may become thinner and more fragile.

The Solutions:

Imagine all the pollution, dirt and bacteria that cover the face after a day outside in a city. Free radicals are attacking form every angle breaking down skin cells causing loss of elastin and collagen in the skin. Detoxifying products are crucial to ward off free-radical damage on the skin and keep skin looking flawless, bright and blemish-free. A detox cleanser is imperative. Look for an acid based cleanser to eradicate surface layer bacteria, dirt and oil. The use of a  bi-weekly pore-clarifying mask can be helpful as well to keep pores free of gunk, dirt, oil and bacteria which lead to breakouts.

Protect + Repair: Dr. Goldfaden’s advanced brightening and antioxidant serum helps to protect against photo-aging and free radical damage, while leaving skin hydrated and radiant.

Smoggy and polluted climates also call for serums and moisturizers that target environmental damage and almost shield the skin. Look for powerhouse Vitamin D as an ingredient! A great option to try is our Vital Boost moisturizer, a daily skin-boosting and antioxidant-infused moisturizer with a powerful dose of Vitamin D.

 

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Seasonal Hydration and your Skin type

As spring approaches we are teased by up and down temperatures. Every season we discuss how to adjust your skincare regimen and spring can be particularly tricky due to the unstableness of the weather. Hydration is still a major concern during the spring but sunnier, clearer skies lead to more sun damage and pollution.

When discovering how to change your regimen it is important to know your skin type. Below are the most common skin types and a few seasonal changes to try.

Combination Skin

Combination skin simply means there are two or more skin issues occurring at the same time. Combination skin is usually oily in the T-zone (forehead and nose and chin), while other areas are dry and/or flaky. This is a very common skin type. Signs that you have combination skin would be large looking pores, shiny skin and blackheads. The term ‘combination skin’ can also be used when referring to the presence of wrinkles, rosacea, dryness or breakouts that are present in certain areas of the face.

Dr. G says:

“Remember the most important step in a combination skin regimen is exfoliation. Exfoliation helps fight the build up of dead skin cells and bacteria and will help ward off breakouts, excessive oil and large pores.”

Changes to try:

  • Flip-flop your exfoliation products. If you usually use a physical scrub, try an acid peel or wipes and vice versa
  • Use anti-oxidant serums to spot treat the different problem areas of the face. Warmer weather means the skin can withstand more aggressive treatments.

 

Oily Skin

Oily skin types usually display dull or shiny skin, a thick complexion, blackheads, pimples, or other blemishes. Oily skin types are very prone to acne.

Dr. G says

“The good news for oily skin types is that they tend to develop fewer wrinkles as they age.”

 

The best way to take care of oily skin is to exfoliate frequently. Look for AHA cleansers (lactic, glycolic or fruit acids) or a BHA or Salicylic acid (would be most appropriate for acne sufferers). Clay masks can also be very helpful in controlling oil production. There is a misconception that oily skin doesn’t need to moisturize. If the skin is very oily an oil free moisturizer will help keep the sheen of the skin down. However facial oils, especially silicone free and dry oils can also be beneficial.

Tips to try:

  • Invest in an oil free SPF
  • Reintroduce an oil free moisturizer during warmer months (especially if you live in humid climate)
  • Try a clarifying mask-look for soothing ad detoxifying ingredients Camphor and Sulfur

 

Dry Skin

Dry skin types can be defined as skin that itches, has scaling, redness or dry patches. Dry skin types may also just feel tight, itchy and lacking in hydration. During the spring, dry skin can still feel in need of extra hydration. Introducing a multi-tasking oil to your daily regimen can be beneficial. Look for oils that hydrate and brighten, which are good for coming out of the dead of winter and targeting dull skin.

Dr. G says:

“Eating a diet high in omega fatty acids and hydrating fruits will help internally to battle dry skin.”

Tips to try

  • Place a small humidifier near the bed while sleeping
  • Only exfoliate 1-2 times per week
  • Try a creamy cleanser

 

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