If you are confused about the seemingly endless supply of potions and lotions on the market these days, take a look at our six basic skincare routines that no woman should be without. With the help of Dr.Lanzer, a cosmetic surgeon and dermatologist with more than 25 years’ experience, we have put together some handy tips and tricks that will help you look your best.
Remember, it is never too early to start and never too late to carry on with a daily skin care regimen, so whether you are in your twenties or in your eighties, read on!
Cleansing
Cleansing is essential to keep our skin breathing and to remove all the dirt, dust and chemicals that are present in our environment. However, how you cleanse is more important than which product you use. After all, you are literally washing it down the drain! Use a product that is gentle on your skin, but does not leave your skin feeling squeaky clean (that means you have removed essential oils as well), and don’t go overboard on scrubbing motions, as they tend to stretch and harm the skin.
Moisturising
Everyone knows the importance of a good moisturiser, but finding the perfect product can seem overwhelming. Consider your skin type, age and location. If you live in an area with strong sunshine, a moisturiser with inbuilt sunscreen will be invaluable. Also, remember that as your skin ages, you will need to change your moisturiser to suit your skin. At night, older and dry skin will benefit from a more intense treatment like a serum, which can be applied together with a moisturiser for best effect.
Hydrating
The fact is that your skin is an organ, and just like any other part of the body, your skin is made up of cells. And skin cells are made up of water. If your skin is not getting sufficient water, it will become dry, tight and flaky. In addition, dry skin has less resilience and is more prone to wrinkling. Make sure you drink two or more litres of fluid every day, more if the weather is hot. Water, tea, herbal infusions, juices and soft drinks can all be included. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty because that is your body telling you that you are already dehydrated!
Eye Cream
When you are already using moisturiser on your skin, you may think you don’t need eye cream, too. But the delicate skin around your eyes deserves a little extra. Because the skin here is thinner than in other areas of the face and there are numerous tiny muscles in the area, it’s more sensitive and prone to a variety of issues. These can include puffiness, discolouration, fine lines and wrinkles. Eye creams contain more oil than a regular moisturiser, and they have a lot of active ingredients aimed at the issues specific to the eye area.
Sun Screen
As the harm done by too much exposure to sunlight grows, so does the number of sunscreens on the market. For best protection, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Why? There are two types of UV light that can harm your skin — UVA and UVB. A broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum, sunscreen protects you from both. UVA rays can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkling and age spots. UVB rays can burn your skin. Both can cause skin cancer. The best sunscreen offers protection from all UV light. Remember to replenish sunscreen after swimming, sport and other outdoor activity.
Face Masks
With the above daily skincare routine in place, face masks are not essential, but used once a week, it can benefit your skin. Choose from gel masks, clay masks, cream masks or sheet masks that offer you the benefits you are looking for. Regardless of which mask you use, all skin types will greatly benefit when an exfoliating scrub or peel is used first.
If, despite our tips, you feel that you need something more to help you get back that more youthful, natural look, you may want to consider a cosmetic procedure. There are many treatments available today, including mini-facelifts, dermal fillers, fat transfers and liposuction.
The important thing is to get advice from experts before committing to any kind of treatment. At Dr Lanzer, you can receive a free facelift consultation in Sydney or Melbourne, where you can discuss which procedure would best suit you, as well as getting advice and answers to any questions you may have. You can also provide details via the website and get a telephone consultation, or send pictures of any problem areas that you would like to discuss.
