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Board-certified dermatologists are the experts when it comes to the skin, hair, and nails. They diagnose and treat over 3,000 diseases and conditions, including skin cancer, acne, psoriasis, and eczema. But have you ever wondered what skin care tips dermatologists use themselves to maintain healthy skin? In recognition of National Healthy Skin Month in November, here are seven skin care tips that dermatologists recommend to their patients and use themselves.

Understanding Your Skin Type

Before diving into the tips, it’s important to identify and understand your skin type. This knowledge will help you select the right skin care products and routines:

  • Sensitive Skin: May sting or burn after product use.
  • Normal Skin: Clear and not sensitive.
  • Dry Skin: Flaky, itchy, or rough.
  • Oily Skin: Shiny and greasy.
  • Combination Skin: Dry in some areas and oily in others.

Understanding your skin type is crucial for proper skin care.

1. Wear Sunscreen Daily

One of the most important things you can do for your skin is to wear sunscreen daily. Sunscreen protects your skin against the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which cause sunburn, skin cancer, and premature skin aging, like wrinkles and age spots. For the best protection:

  • Apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all skin not covered by clothing.
  • Reapply every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.
  • Use a moisturizer that also contains sunscreen to save time in your routine.
  • Remember that no sunscreen can block 100% of the sun’s UV rays. Seek shade and wear sun-protective clothing, including a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protected sunglasses.

2. Stay Out of Tanning Beds

Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that causes skin cancer. Just one indoor tanning session can increase your risk of developing melanoma by 20%, squamous cell carcinoma by 67%, and basal cell carcinoma by 29%. For a golden glow, use self-tanning products instead. When applied correctly, they look natural and won’t cause orange skin, streaks, or splotches.

3. Simplify Your Skin Care Routine

Less is more when it comes to skin care. Using too many products, especially multiple anti-aging products, can irritate your skin. Focus on the basics:

  • A gentle cleanser.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Moisturizer.

Establish morning and nighttime skin care routines that work well for your skin, and stick with them.

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4. Choose Skin Care Products Formulated for Your Skin Type

Understanding your skin type helps you select the right skin care products. Here’s a quick recap on how to identify your skin type:

  • Sensitive Skin: May sting or burn after product use.
  • Normal Skin: Clear and not sensitive.
  • Dry Skin: Flaky, itchy, or rough.
  • Oily Skin: Shiny and greasy.
  • Combination Skin: Dry in some areas and oily in others.

Select products that are specifically formulated for your skin type to ensure optimal care.

5. Treat Your Lips

Skin cancer can form on the lips, so apply a lip balm or lipstick that contains sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before going outdoors. If your lips feel chapped or dry, apply petroleum jelly for added moisture.

6. Keep Your Hands Off Your Face

Whenever you touch your face, you transfer dirt, germs, and oil from your hands to your face. Do your best to leave your skin alone throughout the day. Avoid picking, popping, or squeezing pimples, as this can cause scarring.

7. Check Your Skin Regularly

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S., affecting one in five Americans in their lifetime. Nearly 20 Americans die from melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, every day. However, when detected early, skin cancer—including melanoma—is highly treatable. The five-year survival rate for people whose melanoma is detected and treated before it spreads to the lymph nodes is 98%.

Check your skin regularly for new spots, spots that are different from other spots on your body, or moles that itch, bleed, or change color, as these are often early warning signs of skin cancer. If you notice any suspicious spots, make an appointment to see a board-certified dermatologist.

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Conclusion

Your skin is your body’s largest organ, so it’s important to take good care of it. If you have questions about your skin type or how to take care of your skin, talk to a dermatologist. By following these dermatologist-recommended tips, you can maintain healthy, glowing skin.