Have you carefully curated a regimen of expensive skincare products, yet your routine isn’t giving you the radiant glow you desire? Despite your investment and best intentions, your skincare routine may actually be working against you.
Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Ary Krau regularly sees patients that want beautiful skin — and spend good money on skincare products and spa treatments — but are unintentionally sabotaging their own efforts. If you fall into that camp, Dr. Krau encourages you to take a good look at your own skincare routine and ask yourself the following questions about your skincare regimen:
Are you over-washing or over-exfoliating?
The simple act of washing and exfoliating your skin may lead to irritation and damage if performed too zealously. Don’t wash your face more than twice a day, don’t use hot water (warm is better) and don’t scrub too hard. If you use an exfoliating scrub with granules or a product with an acidic exfoliant (i.e., glycolic, salicylic or lactic acid), practice moderation. A rule of thumb is exfoliating once a day; for more sensitive skin, once or twice a week is sufficient.
Are you trying too many new products at once?
Your skin needs time to adapt to a new product. The key is to start slowly, applying the product once or twice a week, and gradually build up the frequency. If the product is strong, try a 24-hour patch test on your neck or behind your ear to test for sensitivity.
Are you using a product your skin is allergic to?
The very products that you use to nourish your skin may actually be harming it because of allergens like fragrance or parabens. If you notice redness or itchiness after using a certain product, you are likely sensitive or allergic to it. Your safest bet is to eliminate these products and opt for a fragrance-free or hypoallergenic alternative.
Are you eating something your body is allergic to?
You’ve heard the saying, “Everything we eat shows up on our skin.” Are you putting something into your body that is causing an allergic reaction? The most common culprits are soy, dairy, peanuts and eggs. If you are unaware of your trigger, try doing an elimination diet in which you cut out all of these foods and slowly add them back into your diet to identify the source of the irritation.
Can an anti-aging treatment help?
Perhaps your skin care routine is harmless, yet your skin still looks dull or prematurely aged. Consider seeing a plastic surgeon for Botox or filler injections to minimize wrinkles or fine lines, a laser treatment to minimize redness or discoloration, or a chemical peel for smoother skin. With a little professional intervention, you can enjoy clear and radiant skin! A skincare expert can recommend the best treatment for your needs and goals.
To speak with Dr. Krau about any of these treatments, please contact our office and schedule an informational consultation. You can reach us at (305) 861-6881.
