New Year’s Resolutions for Healthy Skin

It’s hard to believe that 2022 is almost at a close, and as we prepare, we look into the future to figure out what we want to manifest. For any of you out there tired of dry desert skin, we have some tips to truly improve your skin care routine. We know that out here in the Phoenix area it can feel like a losing battle to keep up with hydrating and caring for your skin, however, with a few tips you can integrate it into your life with ease for 2023.

Simplify your skincare routine

A complicated skin care routine may garner amazing results, but if it’s so time consuming your New Year’s resolution likely won’t last too long. The goal is simplicity and effectiveness. Consultant dermatologist Dr Thivi Maruthappu, has important advice for those hoping to improve the glow and health of your skin for the upcoming year and beyond.

“The most effective skincare routine is a simple one with well thought-out active ingredients.” Explains Maruthappu. “All too often I see people in the clinic who are over-masking and over-peeling in the pursuit of glowing skin. Too many active ingredients, such as hydroxy acids and retinol, at different steps in your routine can disrupt the skin barrier, worsen redness and increase sensitivities.”

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!

We can’t enforce the importance of this enough! The sun out here is incredibly powerful and aside from getting burned and the risk of skin cancer, UVA rays can shine through your car window, your home or on a patio causing your sking to show its age. We recommend sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) no lower than 30. Use natural elements to reduce the impact of sunscreen on your skin’s health, especially for those with sensitive skin. Sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are the only sure bet. Both ingredients have been approved by the FDA to give your sunscreen a natural SP and are minerals with minimal modification, naturally found in the earth. Don’t be caught without it, inside or out and reapply every hour or so. UVA rays can penetrate windows, or cloudy days, affecting your skin, even if you aren’t aware.

 High quality vitamin C is key

Along with regular applications of sunscreen. It can be beneficial to add a high quality vitamin C ointment. Maruthappu states that, “Whatever your skin type, I love vitamin C for its brightening and glow-boosting effects. When formulated correctly, it is a potent antioxidant and works perfectly layered under your morning SPF.”

Invest in retinoids

Retinoids are a class of chemicals derived from vitamin A and aside from improving skin health, they are often used to treat more serious skin issues such as psoriasis, and chronic acne. Retinoids play an important role in immunity and skin health. By reducing inflammation, unclogging pores, decreasing the appearance of wrinkles, and regulating the growth of cells on the skin’s surface.

Eat for your skin

You are what you eat, and your skin will tell on you. Maruthappu explains that “After the indulgences of Christmas, we can all look a little more sallow and tired.” Sugar and alcohol will make your skin look dry and dull. Maruthappu suggests “Increase your antioxidant intake by eating lots of brightly colored fruits and vegetables which work in the deeper layers of the skin to protect collagen from ultraviolet light and damage from environmental factors, such as pollution. Remember that the darker in color your fruit and vegetable is, the more antioxidant rich they will be.”

“Also pay attention to your intake of good fats – oily fish, such as salmon, is a great source of omega 3 and protein, but if you’re vegan or vegetarian, look out for cashew nuts, flaxseed oil and consider supplementing with algae omega 3 daily. As always, hydration is key for glowing skin – you can always add cucumber, lemon or mint to your water to make it taste more interesting.”

CC Sunscreens

One way to avoid skin damage from the hot Arizona sun is to cover your windows and patios with CC Sunscreens. Our sunscreens block out up to 90 percent of the sun’s UV rays, keeping your skin and your home protected from the degrading effects of the sun. Call today to find out what we can do for you!