Eczema, dry skin and acne are just some of the skin conditions that we suffer with during a lifetime. Not only do they cost us our confidence, but also our hard-earned cash attempting to fix, as new research has revealed that we spend a staggering £369 million on short-term solutions rather than seeking a permanent answer. So, forget all the potions and lotions, these lifestyle hacks from Dr Walayat Hussain, Consultant Dermatologist at Bupa Health Clinics make looking after your skin easy…
- 1. Know your skin type
Nobody’s skin is the same and sometimes different parts of the skin can have different requirements. Just because your face is oily, your body could be dry. The first thing to do is ascertain what you are working with. Are you dry, sensitive or somewhere in the middle?
Using the wrong creams could have the opposite effect as to what you wanted! Visit a dermatologist to take a skin test if you are concerned about your skin. Rashes, hives and breakouts are signs you’re using the wrong skincare so once symptoms like these occur the best plan is to seek advice. Interestingly, using the wrong skincare products can convert your skin to oily – which can be harder to manage. - 2. Establish a care routine
Now you know your skin type, you can buy products that will help protect your skin, rather than making it worse! Ensure that you cleanse, tone and moisturise twice a day if possible. This doesn’t mean spending a load of money either – more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better, so ask for advice and get the product that’ll work for you. - 3. Use SPF (and not just in summer!)
A recent study showed that only 17 percent of Brits said they wore sun screen every day. SPF must be applied every day, especially on sunny days. It’s important to ensure your foundation or moisturiser has SPF so your skin is protected on a daily basis. Introducing sun protection into your routine is the best way to prevent premature ageing and the more serious skin conditions associated with over-exposure. When buying new foundation, ask if they have alternatives containing SPF, your skin will thank you! - 4. Don’t be afraid to visit a doctor
Ignorance is not bliss!
Despite skin issues being one of the nation’s top confidence killers, 89 percent don’t seek expert advice, according to new research.If left diagnosed and untreated, skin conditions can have unnecessary long-term effects such as preventable scarring. Don’t feel that skin concerns are too trivial to take to a GP or a dermatologist for. The sooner we can diagnose and treat conditions the less likely longer-term damage will occur and the less money you’ll spend on covering it up. - 5. Live a healthy lifestyle
As well as the damage it does to your general health, smoking has an enormous impact on the appearance and health of your skin, which you can’t hide. Smoking can cause the skin to dry out and cause wrinkles. However, thankfully, the effects of smoking on the skin, can be reversed, to a certain extent. All the more reason to stop smoking today.
