Starting A Skin Care Routine

Healthy skin starts with the proper skincare routine. 

Are you caring for your skin properly? While you may be doing all the things you think are healthy and great for your skin, you may be shocked to discover that there are some things you could be doing wrong. While our Tulsa, OK, dermatologists Dr. Lynn Anderson and Dr. Kristen Rice at Midtown Dermatology are always happy to answer questions and provide helpful tips for how to care for your skin, here are some additional helpful tips to kickstart that new skincare routine.

Your Skin Type 

One of the first steps to creating the proper skincare routine is to examine your skin and know your skin type. Skin types include dry skin, oily skin, combination (both dry and oily), sensitive and normal. By knowing your skin type you can choose products that better cater to your skin’s specific needs.

Choose the Right Cleanser 

Your skin type will determine the kind of products you use. After all, if you have oily skin you don’t want to use products that are going to clog pores and make skin feel worse, right?

While it might seem easy enough to use soap on your face when in the shower this is a major no-no, even for normal or combination skin. Instead, choose a gentle cleanser and lightly apply it to your skin. If the skin gets oily or dries out it’s time to swap it for a different kind of cleanser.

If your skin is dry stay away from alcohol-based products or products with fragrances, as they can make dry skin worse. Also avoid hot water, which can strip your skin of its natural oils. Opt for an exfoliant once a week to remove dry, dead skin.

Oily skin should always be cleaned with an oil-free cleanser. After washing your face it’s a good idea to use a toner to remove excess oil. Sensitive skin, on the other hand, should look for products that don’t contain any acids, alcohol, or fragrances. Look for calming ingredients like chamomile, oats, or aloe.

Keep Skin Moisturized 

It’s never too early to start applying moisturizer to your skin. Moisturizer is a crucial skincare product. If you are prone to acne or you have oily skin you should still use a moisturizer, just look for one that is oil-free and light. Those with dry skin will want to choose a thicker moisturizer.

Wear Sunscreen 

Our Tulsa, OK, dermatologists can't stress this important skincare tip enough: Wearing sunscreen is the best way to prevent sun damage and skin cancer. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply a generous helping to your skin for about 15-20 minutes before going outside.

If you have questions about your current skincare regimen, talk with our Tulsa, OK, dermatologists at Midtown Dermatology to make sure that your current routine is giving your skin exactly what it needs. Call us at (918) 728-3100 to schedule an appointment.