By Renata Block, MMS, PA-C
It’s National Healthy Skin Month! It is a perfect time to remind all humans that the skin is important and needs to be kept healthy for optimal performance.
It is overwhelming to see ALL the products on the market, enough to make my head spin, and I know what the hell I am doing! I cannot imagine the average person not specializing in dermatology, knowing a good product, or using the right product for their skin type. Just walk down a Skin Care aisle in Walgreens, Target, or CVS, and let the head-spinning begin!
That is why I started this blog, as I get so many questions at my practice of what should be done, what order should I apply my products, and what really is essential.
So let’s keep this simple. We were always taught “less is more,” and I couldn’t agree more about building a good foundation of taking care of your skin.
First of all, you should keep it to these three basics: Cleanser, Moisturizer, and Sunscreen, no matter what your skin type. However, remember, because skin types vary, so do the cleansers and moisturizers for each skin type. For example, oily skin can use cleansers with surfactants (the ingredient that makes it foam), and dry skin should stay away from such ingredients. Moisturizers also are important to distinguish as they are not all created equal. For example, I have many patients coming in for skin rashes secondary to products they shouldn’t or don’t know how to use.
So when you are out seeking the best skin products for your skin, your best bet is seeing a Board-Certified Dermatologist instead of a Sephora Sales Associate (no hate, Sephora, love your store) for the correct guidance to get you started. Yes, the Dermatology providers do recommend Sephora products, too!
Skincare products have really evolved in the past 10 years, and this billion-dollar industry continues to impress. I can’t wait to see what comes next because I am ready for it! Diva Tip: I offer FREE virtual OTC skincare consultations every Tuesday! Make sure you sign up and reserve your spot!
Renata Block is a Physician Assistant and the creator of Savvy Derm Diva, an online resource for proper skin care. Diva Chronicles is a monthly column discussing everything skin! Make sure you follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! Need a dermatology consult? Please visit Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine, LLC, or Call/Text 847-802-9667 for a TeleDerm appointment. MUAH!????
