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Finding the right skin care routine starts with understanding the unique needs of your skin type. For example, people with dry skin can benefit from applying moisturizer several times a day; whereas, those with oily skin might need to apply a lightweight moisturizer only once a day, if at all. Customization is key, and dermatologists can help people of all ages and skin types select products based on their individual skin care needs.
Speaking today at the American Academy of Dermatology’s SKIN academy (Academy), Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist in private practice in Danville, Calif., discussed the importance of an individualized approach to good skin care and offered basic tips for the most common skin types.
“No matter what your skin type, using daily moisturizer and practicing year-round sun protection are vital to maintaining healthy, glowing skin,” said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “That’s because with adequate hydration and use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen, the skin has the advantage of protecting itself from free radicals and harmful ultraviolet radiation that cause skin damage, discoloration, premature wrinkles and even skin cancer. Over time, a careful and consistent skin care routine with products designed for specific skin types can gradually improve the overall health and appearance of the skin.”
Combination Skin Tips
For many people, their skin has areas that are dry and oily, which is classified as combination skin. With this skin type, the forehead, nose or chin might be oily, but the cheeks could be dry. For combination skin, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends using a mild cleanser that minimizes sebum removal. In addition, a medium-weight lotion with broad-spectrum sunscreen containing many different sunscreen ingredients is beneficial.
“To improve skin texture, prevent fine lines and wrinkles, and help even skin color - especially to help lighten dark spots - an over-the-counter retinol cream or a prescription tretinoin cream can be used during the evening skin care regimen to maintain skin health and prevent future damage,” said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “However, when beginning use of tretinoin, the strength should be gradually increased due to its potential to irritate the skin, followed by vigilant use of a moisturizer to help offset any dryness or peeling.”
Dry Skin Tips
For dry skin, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends washing the face twice a day with a gentle cleanser or creamy wash with mild detergent. She suggests applying a moisturizer with sunscreen once a day right after cleansing while the skin is still damp, as this can help seal in moisture.
“If the skin begins to feel tight, reapplying moisturizer midday will help to improve skin hydration,” said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “A sunscreen-containing moisturizer in a smoothing cream formulation that contains antioxidants, plus dimethicone, grape seed oil or petrolatum, which prevent water loss from the skin, also is helpful.”
In some cases where the skin is very dry, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal noted that cleansing the face at night - when it is the dirtiest - may be the only time necessary to wash the face to prevent stripping the skin of its natural oils. If so, she advised rinsing the face with cool water in the morning to help maintain natural oils.
When exfoliating flaky skin, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal suggested that exfoliating once a week is sufficient. Since dry skin can be sensitive, gentle retinols should be applied sparingly to start - such as every other night - along with a moisturizing cream to help even skin tone, texture and color while continuing to hydrate the skin.
Oily/Acne Prone Skin Tips
Oily or acne-prone skin, which is prevalent in teenagers and many adults, requires careful observation to ensure the skin responds favorably to products and the overall skin care routine. For example, some people with oily or acne-prone skin need to wash their face as much as two to three times a day. On the other hand, over-washing the skin also can lead to increased oil production, so a balance must be achieved based on an individual’s skin care needs. In general, using an oil-free, non-comedogenic foaming cleanser that contains salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide is imperative to prevent breakouts.
Dr. Badreshia-Bansal said that contrary to popular belief, oily skin may still require a moisturizer. She suggested a moisturizer that is lightweight and non-comedogenic (does not block pores) that contains sunscreen, which has a dual function as a moisturizer and sun protector when applied every morning. Reapplying a sunscreen during the day is necessary to ensure continuous sun protection.
Exfoliating oily skin once or twice a week is sufficient, but Dr. Badreshia-Bansal cautioned that it is not necessary during acne breakouts, as the mechanical friction caused by exfoliation can make acne worse. She added that for skin that is prone to acne, avoiding products with cocoa butter, cinnamon and coconut oil will help prevent breakouts.
To help soften fine lines while reducing future breakouts, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal suggested using a retinol gel or serum nightly. “Your dermatologist can help recommend gentle and effective products that work together to improve the appearance of oily skin and help prevent acne,” said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal.
Sensitive Skin Tips
For sensitive skin, washing the face once a day should be enough to keep the skin clean. Dr. Badreshia-Bansal noted that exfoliation is not necessary and can worsen already sensitive skin.
“Avoiding products that contain fragrances, soap or alcohol will help patients with sensitive skin maintain skin health,” explained Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “Calming ingredients, such as green tea polyphenols, chamomile, and aloe are beneficial and, as a general rule, the fewer ingredients in a product the better.”
In the morning, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal suggested applying a cream-based moisturizer to dry skin to help prevent or reduce irritation. Active ingredients found in skin care products penetrate more deeply into damp skin (which often can be beneficial in normal skin), but this can cause more irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. In addition, products containing acids, such as lipoic acid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid, may be irritating to sensitive skin. For that reason, caution must be taken with any skin care product containing these types of active ingredients.
To help prevent fine lines and wrinkles and help reduce irritation, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal recommends using a mild retinoid every night followed by a moisturizer to stimulate collagen production.
Skin of Color Tips
For people with skin of color, there are differences in skin anatomy, physiology, and function that can influence how skin care products react with the skin. Even though skin of color is more resilient in many ways, it also is more sensitive to irritant reactions from harsh chemicals and active ingredients, such as glycolic acid which can lead to exaggerated stinging and potential hyperpigmentation (or darkening of the skin).
Dr. Badreshia-Bansal noted that daily moisturizers are a must, since darker skin has a tendency to appear “ashy” when it is not well lubricated. Creams and lotions applied after showering when the skin is slightly damp can help lock in moisture.
Since skin of color is more prone to discoloration and slow healing and scarring from trauma, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal stressed that sunscreen should be used vigilantly by people of color to prevent further sun damage and hyperpigmentation. She suggested that micronized zinc or titanium-based sunscreens will provide the most effective protection.
“People of color, especially those with darker skin tones, mistakenly believe that they don’t need to use sunscreen since they generally don’t sunburn,” said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “The fact is that sun damage still occurs in people of color, which can be very difficult to correct. More importantly, studies show that skin cancer is even more life-threatening when it develops in this population, because people with skin of color often ignore the early warning signs - thinking they are not at risk.”
In addition, skin lightening products can help lighten discolorations - such as a thin film of kojic acid or a cream containing hydroquinone. However, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal cautioned that patients should be careful not to over-irritate the skin with these products, which can worsen discoloration and acne, particularly in skin of color.
Regardless of skin type, Dr. Badreshia-Bansal finds that a few simple skin care tips can be beneficial in improving the overall appearance and health of the skin.
“I recommend keeping the skin care routine very simple, being very gentle with your skin, and avoid irritating, over-washing and over-scrubbing the face,” said Dr. Badreshia-Bansal. “Finding moisturizers that contain sunscreen in a single combination product does the job of two products and are excellent for all skin types. The key is to find the skin care routine and appropriate products that work the best for your individual skin type, which is where your dermatologist can help get you started.”
(See Also: Common Pigmentation Problems and Solutions in Skin of Color)
For more information on improving the appearance of your skin, go to the “AgingSkinNet” section of www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of disorders of the skin, hair and nails.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
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These days, saving a little money here and there is all the rage. Even small changes - carpooling to work or making coffee at home - can really add up. But when it comes to cutting back on hair care, many people might be hesitant to make significant changes for fear that it could impact their looks and the health of their hair. That’s where a dermatologist can help.
Speaking today at the American Academy of Dermatology’s SKIN academy (Academy), dermatologist Paradi Mirmirani, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco, discussed how to have healthy, beautiful hair without breaking the bank.
“There are many ways that we can trim our hair care expenses, from going to the salon less frequently to using fewer products,” said Dr. Mirmirani. “But, the ultimate goal with any type of change in our hair care routine should be to maintain healthy hair.”
To understand what it means to have healthy hair, Dr. Mirmirani pointed out that hair is a fiber; its structure and integrity must be maintained in order for the hair to stay healthy. The root of the hair, also known as the hair follicle, produces the hair fiber which is made up of hair keratins (fine, fiber-like structures packed very tightly together and wrapped on the outside with a very hard outer cuticle). The cuticle of the hair functions much like the shingles on a roof, by protecting the underlying structure. When the outer cuticle is damaged, then the cuticle breaks apart and the inner fibers are exposed - resulting in frizzy, flyaway or lackluster hair.
Since healthy hair requires an intact cuticle, Dr. Mirmirani advised that any hair care routine or products used to clean or style the hair should be gentle enough to maintain the structure of the hair fiber and cuticle. With this is mind, she offered several tips on how consumers could make small changes to save money on hair care without compromising hair health.
Brush Up on Hair Brushes
While boar bristle brushes often are touted as the best hair brushes, Dr. Mirmirani said that this is actually a myth. “Boar bristle brushes, which are quite expensive, put a lot of friction on the hair because the bristles come into contact with hair against its natural grain,” explained Dr. Mirmirani. “This can cause a considerable amount of damage, and consumers can save money and keep hair healthier at the same time by buying inexpensive plastic brushes with wide-spaced needles, which are widely available.”
Shampoo - Less is More
Although shampooing the hair is an important part of any hair care routine, Dr. Mirmirani pointed out that most people could save money on shampoos in several ways. By definition, shampoo is a detergent used to remove dirt from the scalp with different scents added to make them more appealing. However, Dr. Mirmirani explained that people could use less shampoo (particularly if they have long hair) by only washing the scalp and not shampooing the lower parts of the hair.
“When we wash our hair, we tend to use too much shampoo by washing the entire length of the hair rather than concentrating on cleaning just the scalp,” said Dr. Mirmirani. “In addition, how often you wash your hair should be based on how oily your scalp is - if it’s oily, you might need to wash it more frequently than someone with a dry scalp. However, most of us are probably over-washing our hair and can save some money by using less shampoo.”
Dr. Mirmirani noted that African Americans should wash their hair no more than once a week, because their hair and scalp tend to be much dryer than lighter-skinned individuals. Over-shampooing can further dry out the hair and scalp of African Americans.
While most shampoo formulas are very similar, people might mistakenly believe that salon formulas (which are considerably more expensive) are better than drugstore brands. Dr. Mirmirani explained that manufacturers of brand name shampoos sold in stores spend quite a bit of time and money on research and development of their formulas, and she finds them just as good as pricier shampoos sold at salons.
“I recommend that you choose a shampoo formulated specifically for your type of hair,” said Dr. Mirmirani. “If you color your hair, then select a shampoo designed for color-treated hair, as it is gentler than regular shampoo and can help extend your hair color. But if dandruff is a problem, then try a shampoo formulated to fight dandruff. The key is finding the product that works best for you and avoid the temptation to spend more than you have to.”
Conditioners Count
To maintain healthy hair, Dr. Mirmirani advised not to skimp on conditioner. For those with long hair, conditioner plays an important role in helping protect and maintain the structure of the cuticle, especially at the ends. If hair is damaged, it is even more important to make sure the hair is conditioned regularly.
“If your hair is damaged, I would advise using a 2-in-1 shampoo with conditioner followed by extra conditioner to fully protect and help restore the cuticle,” said Dr. Mirmirani. “A leave-in conditioner for deep conditioning that can be applied at home also is important for people with long or damaged hair, and these products do not need to be expensive or applied at a salon to work well.”
She also cautioned that conditioners can make fine hair look even limper, so they should only be used on the tips of the hair and not the scalp or length of the cuticle.
Heat, Color and Chemicals Can Be Costly
In her practice, Dr. Mirmirani sees many people who try to save money by using ceramic flat irons on a very high heat setting to straighten their hair at home rather than spending money for this hairstyle at a salon. However, many problems can occur with these styling products, and it is important to read the instructions before using them on hair. For example, flat irons should never be used on wet hair, the highest heat setting or on an everyday basis. When using any heat-based styling product (including a flat iron, blow dyer or curling iron), Dr. Mirmirani recommended using a styling product specially designed to protect the hair from heat before styling the hair, such as a leave-in conditioning spray.
For those who color their hair, Dr. Mirmirani said hair dyes applied at the salon are basically the same as those that people can purchase from a store and use at home. She suggested that store-bought hair color be tested by applying a small amount on the skin behind the ear and monitoring the area for 24 hours to make sure a person doesn’t have a reaction to it.
“By dyeing their own hair, people can save a considerable amount of money on their hair care routine - especially if they can enlist the help of a friend for quick touch-ups,” said Dr. Mirmirani.
Since ultraviolet (UV) radiation will bleach hair, Dr. Mirmirani also recommended avoiding intentional or prolonged sun exposure, and wearing a hat to protect color-treated hair.
Perms, which chemically alter the hair fibers, should be used with caution when applied at home. For example, Dr. Mirmirani explained that if you leave the chemical in your hair too long, it can permanently damage the hair.
“I can’t stress enough the importance of reading the instructions before applying a perm at home,” said Dr. Mirmirani. “I would recommend leaving the solution on for a shorter duration than the instructions recommend to see how it works the first time you apply it and not to use the product more frequently than once every eight weeks.”
Fuller Hair For Less
While full, luxurious hair may not be in the genes for most people, Dr. Mirmirani said there are a few simple tricks that can make limp hair look fuller that won’t cost any money. For instance, blow drying hair upside down can add volume and hiding the central part of the hair by restyling it can create the illusion of fuller hair.
Many shampoos are available that claim to add volume to hair, and Dr. Mirmirani said that some of these shampoos can be helpful for people with limp hair. However, she doesn’t recommend any products that claim to regrow hair, as the only product that has been shown to do this is minoxidil - a topical solution approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat hair loss in women and men.
“Even though minoxidil is available over-the-counter, people who are considering using it for thinning hair should see their dermatologist for a full evaluation before starting this therapy,” said Dr. Mirmirani. “Informercial and Internet products that claim to improve hair growth for people with fine or thinning hair may not have been scientifically tested, and I strongly advise people not to spend their money on these types of products. They are expensive and they often don’t work.”
If you have multiple hair care concerns and are unsure what products will work best for your hair type, Dr. Mirmirani recommends that you see a dermatologist for expert advice.
Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 16,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or www.aad.org.
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This video will demonstrate how to make an Avocado and Honey Facial Treatment at home. Avocado and honey combine to make a wonderful facial treatment for dry skin. The unsaturated oils and vitamins in the avocado work with the sugars and potassium in the honey to create a super moisturizing treatment for your face. This 100% natural face preparation will help alliviate dry spots and plump up those fine lines to make you look younger.
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Maui Haiku Faces Facial Skin Care Tropical Natural Hawaii Nani Avocados Honey Treatments
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During my latest trip to Trader Joe’s, I had an epiphany. I hadn’t realized it until then, but most of my sugar-free foods come from this wonderful grocery store. It’s a million times less expensive than Whole Foods, and it’s easier to find what I’m looking for as long as it’s not a total zoo (hint: early morning is least crowded.)
Not to pick on other grocery stores, but TJ’s seems to really know and care who their customers are–not who they imagine them to be.
Here are some examples of sugar-free groceries I’ve been able to get at TJ’s over the last few years: crackers, chips, bread, muffins, cereal, salad dressings and other sauces, marinara sauce, pasta, peanut butters, etc. (Albeit, you must check labels.) I’ve been able to get more sugarless foods here than most any other health food store (which seem to think that if their sugar is organic, it’s okay). TJ’s has a plethora of natural sweeteners, also: 100% fruit juices, a great selection of honeys, dried fruit (you must check these labels), molasses, etc. Their organic selection has grown considerably, also, since I first began shopping here years ago. Within the last year or so I noticed they also started carrying sprouted wheat bread, in their bakery section, fresh.
I was able to buy a box of Barbara’s cereal for about $3.50 at TJ’s….at WF a box half the size was over $4 if I’m remembering correctly. TJ’s also has an interesting variety of non-dairy milks. There are several with no added sugars, organic and cheap. Also, TJ’s is where I first discovered white whole wheat flour, and cheap. This flour is great in baking and more wholesome than white flour. I found packages of organic tempeh for $1.50, which go for over $3 at most health food stores. To really treat my sweet tooth, I load up on dried fruit leathers and keep my pantry stocked. They are delicious and just fruit!
Not to mention the fabulous wine selection, decadent foreign chocolates for my husband and guests (don’t get the sugar-free versions…..maltitol!) and even affordable dog treats. (I should be making my own…)
I’m probably leaving out plenty of other groceries, but I just wanted to emphasize that TJ’s has quite an impressive selection, somehow tucked in their little stores, and very affordable.
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When I was browsing on youtube looking for more and more good tips on curing acne, I was stumble upon this cool song about acne. It is really funny song about acne. It seems like the persons in this song are having a lot of problems with acne. Not only with facial acne but also with body acne. Well, lets watch the video of this acne song below:
Here is the song lyrics:
12345678 spots on my face
too much acne to embrace
the person behind them
zits on my back
with heads bright white, scarlet and black
in much too much an awkward place to pop them
pimples on my chest
probably there because I’m stressed
about the people talking behind my back
about the spots on my face
the ones i wish i could erase
just like the so called friends that like to tease me about them
clearasil and freederm
sitting in my bathroom
the spots on my face can confirm
that they don’t really work
proactiv solution
deserves an execution
for being an ablution
that does nothing but smirk at me
’cause I’m an acne ridden teen
12345678 countless times I’ve tried and tried
but my skin just ends up all dry
and I’m left wanting to say inside
but then one day I said charlie
it’s not as bad as it could be
they’re only spots it’s not like you’ve died
be a man, be who you are
but try not to pop them in case they scar
even though squeezing them is fun
understand at the end of the day
to put your hands down and say okay
get out of the bathroom, and lie out in the sun (because I heard that helps)
clearasil and freederm
sitting in my bathroom
the spots on my face can confirm
that they don’t really work
proactiv solution
deserves an execution
for being an ablution
that does nothing but smirk at me
’cause I’m an acne ridden teen
but I won’t let that define me
because the people that mind don’t matter
and the people that matter don’t mind
so when all that puss goes splatter
wipe it off your mirror, and wipe it from your mind
you could try and dairy free diet
and drink 8 cups of water a day
but in the end your acne will still run riot
’cause the hormones that cause them, just won’t go away
Charlie said that most of people getting body acne especially acne on the chest because they are so stressed. He also told us to avoid popping the acne because it will leave a scar on your face. And if you wanted to heal your acne the natural way, drink 8 glass of water everyday. It helps to rehydrate your skins and cleaning the toxics in your body.
Or else, you can follow my tips on Powerful Acne Treatments Products for every age to helps you cure your acne so you won’t face the problems just like the person in this song.
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