With so many skin care products on the market, figuring out which works for you can be difficult. For example, should you use niacinamide and azelaic acid together, or will the combination irritate your skin? Learning about your particular skin type can help you cut through the confusion and get healthy, glowing skin.
Treating Rosacea
Rosacea is a medical condition known for the following symptoms:
- Thickened nose skin
- Flushing
- Swollen and irritated eyelids
- Visible blood vessels
- Burning sensation of flushed skin
- Pimple-like bumps
While rosacea is common and most of the symptoms are superficial, the condition can affect the confidence of those with it. There’s no way to get rid of rosacea completely, but you can reduce discomfort and flushing with a few tips.
Use Gentle Products
Harsh ingredients irritate the skin, causing rosacea to flare up. To avoid this, use products designed for sensitive skin, such as azelaic acid cream.
Of course, not all brands that claim to be gentle actually are. It’s essential to check ingredients lists for problematic compounds:
- Alcohol
- Fragrance
- Urea
- Camphor
- Menthol
- Glycolic or lactic acid
You should also avoid rough washcloths and harsh scrubbing. Instead, look for cleansers that melt away makeup and dirt, allowing you to clean without damaging your skin.
Moisturize Twice Daily
Dryness can exacerbate rosacea, so moisturizing twice a day is critical. Even the gentlest cleansers remove the natural oils that keep your skin hydrated, so you should apply moisturizer after your morning and evening face wash.
If you struggle with roughness, peeling or flaking, try a moisture barrier repair product. The epidermis is a natural barrier that keeps hydration in and irritants out. However, the following can damage the moisture barrier:
- Excessive sun exposure
- Extreme heat and cold
- Pollutants and allergens
Special products can repair the barrier, while moisturizers and sunscreen help maintain it.
Reducing Acne Scars
Acne can be painful and embarrassing. Even worse, it can leave scars behind. While superficial marks usually fade over time, deeply indented scars can last a lifetime. However, you can reduce the appearance of both specific skin care techniques.
Many approaches to scar reduction focus on stimulating new cell production. One such technique is microneedling. You can purchase a microneedle roller, a tool consisting of a handle and a small roller lined with tiny needles. To use, you cleanse your face and sanitize the roller, then gently roll the head over your skin. The needles will puncture the epidermis, prompting the skin to repair itself.
Another, more intense treatment is a chemical peel. This procedure uses a combination of the following to remove the upper skin layers:
- Carbolic acid
- Glycolic acid
- Trichloroacetic acid
- Lactic acid
- Salicylic acid
Several intensities are available, all of which require a dermatologist’s application. Which you need depends on the age and extent of your scarring.
Your daily routine is your skincare foundation. Once you find products that work, keep to your regimen, switching things up as the seasons and your needs change. Prioritizing skin care isn’t just about looking good — it can help you feel more comfortable and confident.
