Your Skin Is A Protective Barrier
Many people don’t realize that the skin is the body’s largest organ. The skin is part of the integumentary system and is comprised of three layers: epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The skin protects the body from bacteria, regulates body temperature, and acts as a sensory organ that responds to pleasure and pain. Taking care of the skin is vital to healthcare because the skin shows signs of issues within the body. For example, acne is a symptom of hormonal imbalances. Therefore, developing a skincare routine is an important part of a health regimen.
What is my skin type?
Skin is categorized into a few different groups like normal, dry, oily, and combination. These classifications refer to how well the skin retains moisture, how much oil the skin produces, and the skin’s sensitivity level. People can have more than one skin type, especially as the weather changes. Combination skin refers to two different skin types on the same person such as normal and dry. Hormones, genetics, stress, sun exposure, and environmental factors will affect a person’s skin type.
Evaluating skin type
To determine skin type, one can do a touch test to assess oiliness, dryness or other factors. Patients can also do a cleanser test, by using a gentle cleanser to wash the face and waiting 30 minutes. After the allotted type, examine the skin in the mirror and with the fingers to identify dryness, flakiness, or other factors. Patients can also work with a dermatologist to determine skin type.
Skincare at your pharmacy
A skincare routine consists of products like a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, exfoliator, serum, and sunscreen. These products vary based on a person’s skin type and skincare needs. For instance, a person with dry skin will need a thicker moisturizer than a patient with oily skin. People should wash at least twice a day, once in the morning and again at nighttime.
Developing a nighttime skincare routine
A nighttime skincare routine differs from a daytime routine in a few ways. People may want to add different or extra layers of products at night because the skin regenerates while people sleep. Therefore, patients may add makeup remover, a mask, a spot treatment, eye cream, night cream, face oil, acid treatments, or a sleep mask to a bedtime routine. Spot treatments, exfoliators, and acid treatments should be used at night because these products can make the skin extra sensitive.
The order of products in a nighttime routine
At night, people can skip the sunscreen and opt for products that hydrate the skin overnight. Patients should start with makeup remover to eliminate makeup residue then move onto a cleanser to remove excess dirt and oil. Next, people can use an exfoliator to deep cleanse the skin. Exfoliators should only be used a few times a week. Products like toners and astringents can be used nightly.
Essential products for nighttime use
The must-have products for a comprehensive nighttime skincare routine are a cleanser, toner, serum, and a moisturizer. These basic products will cleanse, hydrate and tone the skin while locking in moisture overnight. Spot treatments are also good to use for any acne flareups and help to dry out blemishes. Be sure to thoroughly remove makeup before going to sleep to prevent blemishes.
Talk to a professional
For additional skin care questions, reach out to a medical professional like a pharmacist or healthcare provider. A quick assessment will pinpoint any skin issues and develop a skincare routine that addresses these problems.
