Ever wonder how some people seem to have flawless skin? Not a single visible pore or imperfection? The truth is, a lucky few are born with it. But the rest of us have to work at it. Fortunately, everyone can achieve great skin with the 3 Ps.
The first P is for protection! The best thing you can do for your skin is protect it from outside forces. Smoking, ultraviolet radiation, and high sugar diets damage skin. Just a few lifestyle adjustments can make a huge difference!
In a study of twin sisters who lived in the same place, the sister who smoked aged WAY worse than the one who didn’t. Why? Nicotine narrows blood vessels in the skin. With less blood flow, the skin’s surface doesn’t get as much oxygen and nutrients. Chemicals in tobacco break down collagen and elastin causing the skin to sag and wrinkle. If that’s not a reason to quit, I don’t know what is. Need help? Start here.
Whether you lay out at the beach or go to a tanning salon, you expose your skin to ultraviolet radiation. Tanning might give you a golden glow – but there is a price: DNA damage. At best, DNA damage causes premature skin aging. At worst, it can lead to skin cancer. I won’t tell you to avoid the sun, but moderation is key. Use sunscreen, reapply it, seek shade when possible.
Sugar is the silent skin killer. When you eat sugary food, your body responds with insulin spikes. Insulin leads to inflammation. Inflammation breaks down collagen and elastin. Then come the wrinkles, jowls, and sagging skin. How do you get off this train? Avoid simple carbohydrates and stick to foods that have a low glycemic index.
Establish a Great Skin Care Routine with Products Recommended by your Dermatologist
Now that you know how to protect your skin from outside forces, you’re ready for the second P – Products.
If you’re confused about what you should be using on your skin, you’re definitely not alone. The best way to establish a regimen is with your dermatologist. I have 3 basic rules for my patients:
- Skin care should be specific – meaning specific for you. No single routine works for all people because everyone is different. When I design a regimen for a patient, it is based on an analysis of their skin type. Some people might need prescription medications along with their skin care products. Many will need to adjust their routines as the seasons change. If you are unsure of which products to use, that is a great reason to visit a dermatologist!
- Keep your routine simple – more is not better. Actually, it can be worse. Overdoing it with products can clog pores, make you break out, or cause reactions. Avoid the temptation to hop on the bandwagon of the new “it” product. A lot of times, the buzz is just marketing. Save your money for what works.
- Be consistent – products only work if you use them. You won’t see the results of a new regimen immediately. It takes about 6 weeks to see the impact of skin care changes you make. So be patient and stick with the program!
Talk to your Dermatologist about the Right Anti-Aging Procedures for you
Your skin protection is on point and you’ve tightened up your regimen with the help of your favorite dermatologist. Now the last P – Procedures!
We are lucky to live in the age of minimally invasive anti-aging! Procedures can even skin tone, fade sun damage, prevent wrinkles, soften fine lines, volumize the skin, and contour the face. Minimally invasive procedures offer great results with limited downtime and fewer possible side effects.
How do you know what procedures you need?
The best thing to do is consult with a Board Certified Dermatologist. Anti-aging treatments are both personal and private. We evaluate your skin, discuss your goals, and come up with a tailored plan for YOU. Again, no jumping on bandwagons. The results should always be natural. People will see how great you look but shouldn’t be able to tell that you had anything done.
Most importantly, all procedures can have side effects. It is important to understand the risks, benefits, and alternatives before agreeing to a treatment. Board Certified Dermatologists are best qualified to guide you through the process. Dermatologists are most equipped to avoid and manage potential side effects. We spend years in training, take advanced exams to become certified, and stay up to date through required continuing medical education. Don’t be fooled by false certifications that have far lower standards. There is only one American Board of Medical Specialties.
Last but not least, your anti-aging plan should be forward thinking. It should keep you looking your best through the ages.
Follow the 3Ps for Great Skin: Protection, Products & Procedures
You can have the skin you have always wanted. See your dermatologist and make sure you remember the 3 Ps – Protection, Products, and Procedures. Protect your skin from outside damage. Use the right products for your skin type. And work with your dermatologist to figure out which procedures you can benefit from.
Looking for a New Dermatologist in Fort Lauderdale?
Dr. Maryann Mikhail is a Board Certified Dermatologist and the founder of Waverly DermSpa. She believes that every patient’s skin and treatment plans are unique. Dr. Mikhail is known for listening carefully, taking her time, and being there for her patients. It’s that accessibility and personalized care that have made her one of the most sought after dermatologists. Dr. Mikhail has been featured in publications such as: Cosmopolitan, The New York Times, The Atlantic and Into The Gloss.
