Skin tips for a flawless face
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Introduce new skincare products to your face one at a time. That way, if you have a reaction to an ingredient in a new cream or cleanser, you’ll be able to identify the culprit immediately, rather than guessing which one out of your new, five-product regimen caused the irritation or breakout.
Hot stuff
Long, hot steam sessions (either during a facial or in the steam room) dehydrate your skin, according to Linda McDonald-Ferris, former director of the Hazelton Spa in Toronto. (She prefers to use a gentle, warm mist of essential oils during her facials.) Hot water can leave skin dry and irritated, which leads to overproduction of oil or broken capillaries becoming more aggravated. Skip the scorching shower and ask your esthetician to go mild during treatments.
Put a lid on it
We’ve all heard about the importance of fighting free radicals by boosting our cupboards with antioxidant-rich foods and beauty products. But when it comes to creams, the packaging is crucial. “Dermatology has recognized the importance of antioxidant vitamin C, but what’s important to realize is that if it oxidizes, it loses its efficacy,” says Piermarco Luzzatto-Giuliani senior vice-president of Active Cosmetics Canada. Look for creams that come in airtight pump or tube dispensers that block out light, such as Jouviance EcoDefense Antioxidant Emulsion and Vichy LiftActiv CxP Eyes.
Protect your assets
Forget all the fancy-pants lotions and potions; sunscreen is still the best anti-ager around. “A broad-spectrum, SPF 30 sunscreen is the best-value anti-aging cream you can buy,” says Vancouver-based dermatologist Frances Jang. If your skin errs on the sensitive side, look for the chemical-free ingredients titanium dioxide and zinc oxide in products such as Dermalogica Super Sensitive Faceblock or Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion.
Know a pro
If you’re concerned about fighting the signs of aging, see a dermatologist sooner rather than later. (And while you’re at it, get that mole checked out.) “Anti-aging information can be hugely confusing,” says Jang. “There are proven molecules and procedures you can use that will help slow down and reduce the signs of aging. But it’s important to get expert guidance on what’s right for you at this stage of life, given your lifestyle and budget.”
)Keep reading this article for tips on exfoliating and fighting acne, or check our our tips for winter skin care.)
