If you’re like us, you’re anxiously awaiting the first signs of spring. Daffodils poking through the frozen ground signal that warmer days and clearer skies are just ahead. While winter may be sticking around for a few more weeks, here are four things you can do to revamp your skin before the vernal equinox.
#1 Shorten Your Routine
We know you’re busy and want to get the most out of your skin care products, but is it really possible to achieve good results with fewer products? In a word: yes. Winter skin often looks dull, feels droopy, and lacks moisture. You could exfoliate, apply hyaluronic acid, and top it off with a heavy cream, but an AIO can do all that in just one step. What’s an AIO? It’s an all-in-one product that will get you out the door quicker without sacrificing your skin. EltaMD’s AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer does it all. It contains willow bark extract (an AHA) for gentle exfoliation, and piptadenia colubrina extract, which stimulates the skin cells that funnel water deep into your skin. It’s also chockful of niacinamide to brighten skin and fade dark spots and old acne marks. Beyond that, it won’t clog your pores, and the added hyaluronic acid will keep your skin plump all day.
#2 Start Testing Sunscreen
You’re probably wondering what sunscreen has to do with looking your best during spring and summer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “90% of aging is caused by the sun.” Ask dermatologists about their favorite anti-aging tip, and you’re likely to hear “sunscreen.” Committing to wearing it daily takes a little bit of research. First, you need a broad spectrum product that doesn’t absorb UV rays. It needs to block them entirely. Physical sunscreen works best, so look for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide on the label. Once you find a sunscreen that feels light and non-sticky, try it under makeup to see how it reacts. If it doesn’t feel heavy or pill up, then consider it your sunscreen soulmate. And by that, we mean the one that you’ll always use. Don’t dismay if you can’t tolerate the feel of traditional sunscreen. Sunforgettable Brush-on Sunscreen from Colorescience can be brushed on over dry skin or makeup. It comes in a variety of colors and is perfect for your briefcase, pocket, gym bag, or purse.
#3 Rejuvenate with Retinol
If you’ve ever seen a tulip poking its vibrant red self up through the snow, then you know that surprises can come from anywhere. That’s how we feel about retinol. A properly formulated retinol product can bring new life to your skin, diminish wrinkles, minimize acne, and restore that plump feeling that young, healthy skin always has. If you’re just starting to use retinol, you’ll have a better experience if you start slow. Patience is required to both build up your skin’s tolerance and to see results, usually after 12 weeks of consistent use. After all, those wrinkles or dark spots didn’t develop overnight. We recommend all-trans retinol, which isn’t as drying as its prescription counterpart and causes less flaking and irritation. In short, it has fewer side effects, so you’ll be more likely to stick with it. Until someone discovers the Fountain of Youth, we’re keeping our retinol and our sunscreen handy.
#4 Make Time for a Skin Check
While there’s still some winter weather left (and your skin is covered from head to toe in heavy clothing) schedule a visit with your dermatologist. The best way to stay on top of potential skin concerns, especially cancer, is to have a yearly skin exam. Your dermatologist will check every inch of your body, including your scalp, and note the types of moles and skin concerns that you have. If anything looks suspicious, you’ll be able to have it treated or removed, if necessary, all while being able to cover it up and heal fully before it’s time to wear more revealing clothing. And as a bonus, you can discuss other treatments that you may want to get a jump on, like laser treatments to remove hair, dark spots, or unsightly veins. You can read more about those treatments here.
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Make the most of winter’s remaining days, and reach out to us if you need help picking a product that’s right for your skin. We’re here to help and can create a customized skin care system that fits your goals and skin type!
Looking forward to the spring,
Team Reflect
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