Brooding over the common skin care concerns that are marring your natural beauty? You’re not alone!
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, nearly 85% of people have experienced a skin concern at some point – and that’s only the start! [1]
As a seasoned skincare expert, I’ve spent years delving into the heart of these issues, exploring the intricacies of dermatological research, and will show you effective solutions for a wide array of skin woes (including your unique skin type!)
So let’s begin your journey to healthier, radiant skin today!
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Tackling Breakouts: Consistent facial cleansing with products designed not to block pores is an essential skin care strategy for skin breakouts.
- Hydrating Inside and Out: Nourish your skin with moisturizing cleansers and quality skin creams, and hydrate your body.
- Shielding against the Sun: Rigorous application of sunscreens with high SPF is paramount in protecting your skin from those frightening sun rays.
How to Fight Common Skin Care Concerns (9 Proven Strategies)
Here are my 9 favorite ways of fighting common skin care concerns ASAP!
#1 Confront the Breakout Blues
Dealing with skin challenges can be very frustrating and is an issue most people face from the time they hit puberty — breakouts. And who hasn’t sung the breakout blues?
There’s an easy way to overcome this challenge: by washing your face using the best skincare products [2].
These skincare products can be as varied as creams, lotions, or serums, each with its unique benefits.
To keep your face fresh, and radiating, wash it with a gentle cleanser twice daily.
Generally speaking, avoid strong products that can strip your skin as they can sometimes worsen skin issues further (you don’t want this!).
For best results – and to prevent any mishaps – always shop for skin care products that won’t clog your pores.
If you’re battling breakouts, my succinct advice is to leave your skin alone. It isn’t easy(Trust me – I’ve been there!)
“But what about touching my skin?” I hear you asking. The simple answer to whether you should touch your skin is: Don’t do it!
I know how itchy skin can be, and – believe it or not – the temptation feels like a torrent from the underworld (but, alas, you must resist the temptation!)…
If you don’t, you’ll risk a barrage of problems that will cripple your health and destroy your skin further (not fun!).
#2 Hydrating
As a seedling needs water to survive the elements, so does our skin. When dehydrated, your skin will become dry and flaky, which can be very uncomfortable.
The first step towards fighting dry skin is by opting for a hydrating cleanser with hyaluronic acid in your skincare regimen, as this ingredient is known for its potent moisturizing properties.
Better yet, follow this up with a good quality moisturizer that suits your skin type.
To do this, you can apply a facial oil or hydrating serum to your daily skincare routine for an extra moisture boost.
And remember, you have to stay hydrated from the inside as well. Drinking enough water throughout the day will help lock the moisture in [3].
These proven steps will not only ensure your skin remains healthy but also contributes to its longevity…
Don’t miss out on our latest piece, “Can 19-year-olds Use Vitamin C Serum?” to learn more about skincare at a young age and find the answers to all your pressing questions.
#3 Soothing Skin Sensitivity
If you have a skin sensitivity problem, skin care can become an extra difficult task. You may find it hard to find products that don’t irritate your skin and cause you discomfort [4].
To better serve your sensitive skin, choose products free from harsh chemicals and focus on those that align with your specific skin needs.
PRO TIP: Use only lukewarm or cool water on your face. Stay away from hot water – especially very hot temperatures – as it can leave your skin feeling irritated and sore.
Lastly, take a tip from nature and incorporate soothing ingredients into your daily skin rituals.
For instance, Aloe vera and chamomile can temper even the worst issues and help calm your skin [4].
#4 Perfecting Those Pigments
Uneven skin tone and discoloration are among the most common skincare concerns, especially as we age.
Over the years, the sun has damaged our skin which could be irreparable.
So whether you’re planning an island holiday or you’re just an outdoorsy sort of person, cover cover cover.
To return to the youthful glow you had as a teenager, shop for the ones with those brightening ingredients.
Including in your skincare routine some clinically tested anti-aging products, such as those rich in retinol or vitamin C, can contribute significantly to minimizing the appearance of these age signs.
These will help fade the discoloration and promote a more balanced complexion. Always keep in mind that results may take time, and when it comes to reaching pigment perfection, it’s a long process.
Be patient; you will get there!
Take your skincare routine to the next level by checking out my informative article, “How to Use Vitamin C Serum in Korean Routine,” and discover the optimal time for the most effective results.
#5 Fighting the Effects of Aging
Fine lines and wrinkles are a part of life and the aging process we wish we could avoid, yet they can also be seen as a sign of wisdom and experience.
Unfortunately, completely avoiding them isn’t possible, but there are several effective strategies you can adopt to reduce their visibility and slow down their progression.
Using a daily moisturizer that’s enriched with a high SPF is an excellent preventative measure – it not only shields your skin from further UV damage but also offers the much-needed hydration to fend off dryness and maintain your skin’s suppleness.
#6 Protecting Your Skin From Sun Damage
We all love a good day out at the beach or lazing by the pool on hot summer days. And although having a bronzed body is nice, skin cancer isn’t.
Dr. Sandra Lee aka Dr. Pimple Popper, celebrity dermatologist and founder of SLMD Skincare explains how exposure to the sun “weakens and dilates superficial blood vessels under the skin, causing redness.” [5]
The sun does more damage to our skin than we may realize, and we tend not to even think about it in our youth.
Unfortunately, it may cause some serious problems as we get older.
Dr. Jennifer Lin, an assistant professor of dermatology at Harvard Medical School and co-director of the Melanoma Risk and Prevention Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, states,
“There are excellent studies that sunscreen protects against all three of the most common skin cancers: squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma.”
She continues, “The degree of protection that sunscreen provides is directly related to the degree to which ultraviolet radiation is associated with the formation of skin cancer. [6]”
The best way to fight the sun’s harmful rays is by using a high-SPF sunscreen and applying it liberally and regularly when spending time outside, even on cloudy days.
Just because you can’t feel the heat of the sun does not mean that the sun’s UV rays are not doing damage. So apply that sunscreen, wear a hat, and never forget your sunnies.
#7 Embracing Exfoliation
When you gently eliminate the accumulation of dead skin cells through exfoliation, you’re uncovering a fresher, brighter layer of skin.
In fact, this process also promotes the healthy turnover of skin cells, bringing the younger, livelier cells to the surface.
By incorporating regular exfoliation into your favorite Korean anti aging routine, you’re setting the stage for your skin’s natural beauty to shine through.
#8 Going with Proper Nutrition
“There is growing scientific evidence that the health, well-being, and the attractiveness of the skin are strongly influenced by nutrition,” write researchers Pofekta et al. [7]
What you nourish your body with directly impacts your skin’s health.
For a radiantly glowing complexion, focus on consuming a variety of foods rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other vital nutrients.
A well-rounded diet brimming with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats not only benefits your overall health but can also enhance your skin’s vibrancy.
From my extensive research and experience in nutritional science, a combination of diverse nutrients promotes optimal skin health.
For example, opting for avocados, fatty fish, nuts, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables in your daily meals is a delicious and effective way to feed your skin.
The key to skin-loving nutrition is diversity – the more varied your diet, the broader the range of nutrients your skin will receive.
You may also find it useful to read my guide on the “Supplements Every Woman Should Take” to further enhance your wellness routine.
#9 Getting Enough Sleep
Sleep’s contribution to beauty is not just a saying – it’s grounded in scientific reality.
A good night’s sleep is a crucial element of skin health and plays an indispensable role in maintaining your radiant glow.
Sleep deprivation can lead to reduced blood flow to the skin surrounding your face, resulting in a less-than-lively complexion.
Ensuring you receive 7-9 hours of high-quality sleep every night is a fundamental step for maintaining a vibrant and healthy complexion.
Restful sleep is a period of regeneration and recovery for your skin cells, allowing them to refresh and revitalize after the daily stresses they endure.
Thus, adequate sleep serves as a powerful, natural rejuvenating treatment for your skin.
Want a snazzy summary? Check out this comparison table for a brief, concise review!
| Strategy | Description |
| #1 Confront the Breakout Blues | Use non-comedogenic skincare products and avoid touching your skin to prevent breakouts. |
| #2 Hydrating | Use a hydrating cleanser and moisturizer; keep yourself hydrated by drinking enough water. |
| #3 Soothing Skin Sensitivity | Use gentle skincare products and soothing ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile. |
| #4 Perfecting Those Pigments | Use brightening products and include retinol or vitamin C in your routine for even skin tone. |
| #5 Fighting the Effects of Aging | Use a daily moisturizer with high SPF to slow down aging signs and protect against UV damage. |
| #6 Protecting Your Skin from Sun Damage | Apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly, and wear protective clothing when outside. |
| #7 Embracing Exfoliation | Regularly exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and reveal fresher skin. |
| #8 Going with Proper Nutrition | Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and essential nutrients for skin health. |
| #9 Getting Enough Sleep | Get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to allow for skin cell regeneration and maintain a healthy complexion. |
Keen for more tips? Check out this video by Doctor Ken for skin-friendly diet tips!
To further empower your skin health journey, here are some commonly asked questions about skincare and my expert answers to them!
FAQs
#1: What’s the most effective approach to controlling breakouts?
#2: How do I keep my skin properly hydrated?
And don’t forget about the water!
#3: How do I protect my skin from the sun’s harmful rays?
#4: What steps can I take to reduce skin discoloration?
Remember, the journey to even skin tone is gradual—consistency and patience will yield results.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to fight common skincare concerns, let’s review the basics…
Every person’s skin journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
It’s important to listen to your skin and give it what it needs. Even more important – and the most difficult among them all – is to be patient.
Now that you’re ready to kickstart your journey towards healthier, happier skin, start today and share your progress with me!
References
1. Skin conditions by the numbers [Internet]. Aad.org. 2019. Available from: https://www.aad.org/media/stats-numbers
2. Skin Care | Shop Natural Skincare Products | Fresh Beauty US [Internet]. Fresh. [cited 2023 Jun 12]. Available from: https://www.fresh.com/us/skincare
3. Shafiq Z. The importance of drinking water for dry skin [Internet]. www.sportskeeda.com. 2023 [cited 2023 Jun 12]. Available from: https://www.sportskeeda.com/health-and-fitness/the-importance-drinking-water-dry-skin
4. Bullock H. Sensitive skin or a damaged skin barrier? Dermatologists explain how to tell the difference [Internet]. www.stylist.co.uk. 2023 [cited 2023 Jun 12]. Available from: https://www.stylist.co.uk/beauty/sensitive-skin-or-damaged-skin-barrier-difference/788385
5. Nazish N. How To Get An Even Skin Tone, According To Dermatologists [Internet]. Forbes. 2019 [cited 2023 Jun 12]. Available from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/nomanazish/2019/10/31/how-to-get-an-even-skin-tone-according-to-dermatologists/?sh=37b170237225
6. Harvard Health Publishing. The science of sunscreen – Harvard Health [Internet]. Harvard Health. Harvard Health; 2021. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-science-of-sunscreen
7. Polefka TG, Bianchini RJ, Shapiro S. Interaction of mineral salts with the skin: a literature survey. International Journal of Cosmetic Science. 2012;34:416–23.
