Our Dermatologists Reveal Their Skin Care Secrets
One of the most common questions our dermatologists receive from clients is, “What are your skin care habits?” It’s a great question, really, because what it’s really asking is, “Using your professional training, knowledge, and experience, how do you care for your skin in ways that others may overlook?”
At Acqua Blu Medical Spa in Pittsburgh, our highly skilled and friendly team of professionals is always happy to address your questions and concerns, so we’ve compiled a list of the top five skin care secrets from our dermatologists.
1. Pour on the Protection
This skin care tip is all about prevention. Keeping your skin protected from the sun’s damaging UV rays is one of the most important things you can do when it comes to skin health. Skimping on sunscreen can not only put you at risk for skin cancers like melanoma, but it can also lead to unwanted side effects like lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. (American Academy of Dermatology)
Lots of women and men often say that the greasy, thick formulas of many of the popular drugstore sunscreens leave their skin feeling heavy and looking shiny. We suggest trying a product like Skinceuticals’ Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50 if this is a concern for you. Not only does it contain powerful natural sun-protecting ingredients in place of harsh chemicals, but it’s also formulated to maintain its matte finish, even when combined with sweat and water.
2. Get Cozy with Retinoids
While you sleep, your entire body gets a chance to naturally refresh itself, and your skin is certainly no exception. You can take advantage of the fact that your skin is healing itself while you sleep by pairing certain skin care products with your nighttime routine. Retinoids can be perfect for this because they have been shown to promote your skin’s natural collagen production, which can provide all sorts of anti-aging benefits. Skinceuticals’ Retinol 1.0 nighttime treatment contains the highest concentration of pure retinol currently available, making it an extremely effective product.
3. Ditch the Junk Food
It’s no secret that certain foods can be bad for your overall health, but recent research also suggests that junk food can have some negative side effects for your skin, too. Studies have shown that eating fried foods and those containing hydrogenated oils can cause molecules in your skin to oxidize, which can lead to a whole host of unwanted skin conditions. There has also been evidence that sugary foods can cause inflammation, and there may even be links to increased insulin due to sugar intake and acne breakouts. We suggest swapping out these junky options for foods rich in antioxidants that can actually benefit your skin. (WebMD)
4. Rejuvenate Skin with Microdermabrasion
Sometimes, after years of sun exposure, skin damage, and even due to the body’s natural aging process, the skin can appear dull and tired. Microdermabrasion can be a very effective solution, as it can remove the outer layer of dead, flaky skin that’s hiding the fresh, younger-looking layer underneath. It works by applying tiny rotating crystals to the skin, which provide a thorough exfoliation. It can even help to reduce the size of pores, smooth scars, and reduce fine lines.
5. Start Botox Sooner Rather Than Later
Botox is becoming one of the most popular nonsurgical cosmetic procedures in the country, perhaps due in part to new research that suggests it can be an effective preventative anti-aging tool. Although the immediate results of Botox will gradually fade over the months following treatment, it can have long-lasting effects. Studies have shown that by decreasing facial muscle usage early, before lines and wrinkles have become too deeply set-in, Botox can work as a wrinkle prevention tool. (Today)
Why Choose Acqua Blu Medical Spa for Your Skin Care Needs?
Our dermatologists at Acqua Blu Medical Spa in Pittsburgh and Wexford help numerous women and men everyday with their unique skin care needs. It can be difficult to diagnose a skin condition on your own, much less know the best way to treat it, which is why scheduling a consultation with a trained professional can be so beneficial.
At Acqua Blu, we carry a variety of Skinceuticals skin care products to meet the many specific skin care needs of our clients, as well as numerous cosmetic treatments. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Ana Busquets is passionate about patient education and preventative skin care, and would be happy to address any dermatologic concerns you may have.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Busquets, Dr. Susannah McClain, or physician assistants Christopher Foti and Zakery Koban, please contact us at (724) 933-1800, and a member of our personable team will be happy to assist you.
The Bottom Line
Healthy skin care really doesn’t have to be complicated. By following a few great dermatologist-recommended tips, combined with a regular skin care routine, you can be well on your way to younger-looking, refreshed skin that can help you look just as great on the outside as you feel on the inside.
