6 Ways to Spot-Proof Your Skin
Exfoliating peels help you quickly shed pigmented and dull skin cells, giving your complexion an immediate glow . "There's no question that skin can look more even from regular exfoliation, because some pigment is lying in the superficial layer," says Dr. David Colbert, founder of New York Dermatology in New York City. Here's what to use whether you DIY or seek out a pro:
At home Peel pads with glycolic, lactic or salicylic acids are easy to add to your skin-care routine—just swipe and go. (Dr. Colbert has his own version: Colbert M.D. Intensify Facial Discs, $52 for 20.) The acids work to loosen bonds between skin cells; the pad wipes them away. Use them at least once a week to maintain constant, gentle exfoliation. Also consider an OTC retinol or prescription retinoid. Aside from increasing penetration of lighteners and sloughing pigmented surface cells, this vitamin A derivative helps hyperactive pigment-producing cells chill out. (You'll fight fine lines , too. Docs agree the Rx kind is the best wrinkle fighter out there.) Try glycolic acid–laced Cane+Austin Texturizing Treatment Pads, $60 for 60 pads.
In office To see faster results or nix severe spots , or if you're prone to pesky breakouts and PIH, let a dermatologist customize a peel that's best and safest for your skin. (Too-strong at-home peels could do more harm than good by inflaming skin and causing more pigment.) For example, a mild in-office salicylic acid peel can lessen inflammation, Dr. Sadick says. But you may need one every three weeks or so. Cost: about $100 to $500 per peel.
We know that you know you should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. But we repeat: Unprotected UV exposure will undo any results you accomplish from following this glow guide quicker than you can say hyperpigmentation. Here are some new blockers on the block:
For city slickers Shiseido Urban Environment UV Protection Cream SPF 35, $30, feels as good under makeup as any plain facial cream, and it has antioxidants, moisturizing amino acids and supereffective zinc oxide.
For athletes Aveeno Hydrosport Sunblock Lotion SPF 85, $11, is very water-resistant. You can apply it directly to wet skin, which absorbs it so quickly that reapplying between dips or after excessive sweating is a breeze.
For outdoors enthusiasts DermaDoctor Photodynamic Therapy Sunlight-Activated Laser Lotion, SPF 30, $85, has noni-fruit extract, which transforms any UV light that sneaks through sunscreen (inevitable even if you diligently reapply) into visible red light that stimulates collagen and reduces pigmentation.
For sensitive types Clarins UV Plus High Performance Day Screen SPF 40, $38, has titanium dioxide, a nonirritating mineral-based blocker that sits on skin's surface—although you'd never know it by the light finish. Plus, it's noncomedogenic and oil-free, ideal for breakout-prone skin .
Write a Comment