Health

10 Scientific Fixes for Common Skin-Care Problems

To keep your skin looking young, the epidermis, the skin’s outer layer, helps protect the skin while regularly cycling out dead skin cells with new, healthy cells. This process is supported by the dermis, the skin’s middle layer, which contains collagen, an essential protein for healthy skin.

When this process starts to slow, you need something that stimulates collagen and speeds the turnover of skin cells, says Neil Sadick, MD, a dermatologist in New York City and clinical professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. “Retinoids are still the No. 1 collagen stimulator,” he says. (Most retinoids are prescription, but weaker forms called retinols can be found over the counter; ask your dermatologist what they’d recommend for you.)

You may also want to consider an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) serum for cell turnover (some people may not tolerate an AHA). Ideally, start with one that contains 5 percent AHA, and work up to greater concentrations as long as it is tolerable. Alternate between the retinoid and the AHA in your nightly routine, Dr. Sadick says. Examples of AHAs are glycolic and lactic acid.

It also should go without saying that you need to be diligent with good sun protection to help slow premature aging. This includes using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 daily (increase to SPF 45 or 50 for prolonged or intense sun exposure and reapply every two to four hours), wearing a wide-brimmed hat when out in the sun, sporting wraparound sunglasses, and seeking shade when possible.


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