Uptown Dermatology

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Skin Care Tips Amid National Skin Care Awareness Month

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--September marks Skincare Awareness Month, a perfect time to reevaluate current skincare routines as the summer comes to an end. With cooler weather on the horizon and the possible negative effects of the sun on the skin, September is a great time to rethink one’s regimen to be prepared for the colder, dryer months ahead. Dr. Elizabeth Mullans, M.D., Board-Certified Dermatologist, at Uptown Dermatology, shares expert tips for beautiful skin through fall and beyond.

“With the arrival of fall and seasonal changes, September is an ideal month to reevaluate which routines work and take a deep dive into skincare. Certain hypo-allergenic products are great to use this time of the year because they are gentle on the skin and won’t lead to irritation when the skin is prone to be more dried out,” says Dr. Mullans.

Dr. Mullans recommends the following tips during National Skincare Awareness Month:

Use a cleanser on your face every morning and night. Washing your face with cleansing products is very important to remove excess makeup and dirt and dander that land on the skin’s surface during the day and while asleep. Salicylic acid cleansers are great to exfoliate with for those who suffer from acne flare-ups, and moisturizing cleansers are recommended for those who have a pattern of dry skin. I also suggest adding in a vitamin with biotin and retinol that will help skin health, such as vitafusion Multi + Beauty.

Wash your pillowcases often. Over time, pillowcases can pick up many germs and dander that can lead to breakouts on the face and result in allergies. If you are prone to allergies or flare-ups, cover your pillow with a protective case to eliminate dust mites and add a protective layer while you sleep. Be sure to wash your pillowcases every time you wash your bedding, which should be at least every two weeks, to keep sheets as fresh as possible. I recommend a hypo-allergenic detergent like Arm & Hammer Sensitive Skin Free and Clear that is gentle on the skin and will wash away any irritants.

Wear sunscreen daily, even if it’s not overly sunny. There is a stigma that you are only supposed to wear sunscreen in the summer months and on high UV days, but sunscreen can also protect skin against skin cancer, wrinkles, and age spots. It is best to apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily to the face as a preventive measure.

Get enough beauty sleep hours a night. The amount of time spent asleep at night can really affect skin health. To look and feel their best, the National Sleep Foundation suggests adults need seven to nine hours of sleep a night. While asleep, the body repairs collagen and increases blood flow which can repair damage from the sun, reducing wrinkles, spots, and more. A good night’s sleep can also prevent puffiness and under-eye bags, keeping the skin fresh and healthy.