Start every morning in the shower by using an exfoliating scrub with alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA’s such as lactic or glycolic acids). These fruit acids will help to remove dull skin cells that help healthy skin from glowing. If skin is too sensitive for these products, use a loofah or scrub brush daily. To help prevent dehydrating the skin, avoid taking showers that are hot, and to preserve water, limit showers to less than six minutes. Immediately after drying off, apply a generous amount of moisturizer as a cream or lotion. This moisturizer may contain AHA’s as well. After this has absorbed and you’re dressed, apply a product for sun protection, SPF, with the effective ingredient Parsol 1789, titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. All skin types benefit from protection from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, even skin of color. Sun damage leads to wrinkling, dehydration, age spots, and potentially skin cancer. While a healthy glow is a fabulous summer accessory, it need not be accompanied by the risk of premature aging or ill health.
The same routine may be followed in the evening, with the exception of applying SPF. In place of this, use self tanner (St. Tropez, L’Oreal) to help even out skin tone, or body glitter or scented shimmering body oils (Nars, Clarins) to add extra shimmering effect.
To take your skin care to the next level, invest in monthly microdermabrasion on your face and body. This treatment effectively removes dead skin cells and reveals a healthier skin surface, and is available at your dermatologist’s, plastic surgeon’s, or trained aesthetician’s office. It is painless and there is no downtime.
Say “goodbye” to tan lines and orange streaks. Let your body glow by starting your routine with a few simple steps at home.
Dr. Shirley Madhère is a plastic surgeon in private practice, SoHo Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery, in New York City and the Director of On-Call Beauty. She may be reached at 212.941.1571 or email us.