Why is a Daily Skin Care Regimen Important?

I frequently get asked by my patients’ if a daily skin care regimen is important. The simple answer is it’s one of the most important things that you can do for your skin. When it comes to skin care, less is more.

Taking care of your skin daily helps it act as a barrier to the elements and protects you from infection. When you don’t wash and moisturize your face you’re at risk for dryness and cracking.  it also contributes to line and wrinkles starting prematurely. Some skin problems such as acne breakouts, rashes and inflammation can be prevented by simply following a daily skin care routine.  The basic products that you need for a daily routine are a cleanser, toner, serum and moisturizer.

What should your skin care routine look like?

• Wash your face twice daily. Be sure to use a gentle cleanser that’s right for your skin type (acne, oily, etc). Use circular strokes and only rinse with warm water. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing.
• Use a toner. This helps to remove oil, makeup and dead skin while prepping your skin for a serum.
• Apply a serum. These are used for brightening, repairing, hydrating and anti-aging. A serum with retinol stimulates new skin formation and new collagen which are both necessary for healthy and youthful skin. Because of this, a serum with retinol should only be used at night never during the day. In fact, when retinol is exposed to the sun, it will have the opposite effect of anti-aging and instead make the skin age faster because it’s more susceptible to harmful UV rays.
• Apply a moisturizer. This is the last step in your skin care routine and one of the most important. Your skin needs to remain hydrated in order to be healthy.

For more information on a daily skin care regimen visit aad.org