With Diwali just around the corner, there are some simple ways to take care of your skin. Here are a few quick tips to get healthy, radiant skin in time for the festival
Exfoliate, exfoliate
If your complexion is dry and dull, your skin probably harbours a lot of old dead skin cells. Get your exfoliator on it. “Exfoliation is and always has been an important factor in achieving and maintaining radiant skin,” says Dr Allen Rezai, Plastic Surgeon, Elite Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Group. He suggests choosing products that contain alpha hydroxy acid.
So is there a shortcut to radiant skin? Unfortunately not, says Dr Malcolm Paul, Plastic Surgeon at LaVie Clinic. “However, I recommend the daily use of exfoliates and twice weekly use of retinoic acid. This will give the skin a fresh and radiant look.”
Live healthy
Our mums and grandmums have dinned the importance of healthy eating into us for good reason. “Diet and exercise play a crucial role to remain healthy,” says Dr Paul. “If you are able to limit the intake of carbohydrates, consume more of green vegetables and fresh fruit daily. The benefits will slowly be visible. All this will give you a balanced lifestyle and ensure good health and well-being.”
Managing stress helps, as can limiting smoking and sleeping well before the festive season, adds Dr Rezai, who says IV infusion therapy is becoming a popular fix of choice by individuals constantly on the go.
Lock down a routine
Everyone knows at least one woman with seemingly perfect skin. Her secret is simple — she has flawless skin because she’s nailed the best daily routine. While there are thousands of skin and beauty products, to be able to use them effectively, you need a regular routine.
The best times for a skincare regimen are right after you get out of the shower and just before bed.
Harness hydration
After the long summer months, chances are your skin feels pretty parched. You need to stay hydrated on the inside by drinking lots of water or
at least the ideal eight glasses a day.
Though it’s tempting to grab a coffee the minute you wake up, experts say choosing the right beverages can be a game changer. Green juices with lots of veggies can transform your skin in a matter of days, while stimulating lymphatic drainage, so it’s de-puffing, too.
“Retinoic or glycolic acid products are highly recommended for healthy and glowing skin,” says Dr Paul. “In the cooler months, use moisturisers based on your skin type.”
Listen to your skin
Is your skin like you? Does it overreact to everything you slather on it? If every moisturiser your BFFs rave about leaves your skin sore, it’s time to turn to gentler formulas. For very sensitive skin types, it is advisable to avoid over-the-counter products, even if they are labelled for sensitive skin, says Dr Rezai.
“Instead consult with a skincare specialist right away to find a professional product range suitable for your skin type,” he says. “When trying a new product, it is important to maintain an open communication with your specialist.
Sometimes you may experience temporary skin irritation or discomfort, but this may be an expected reaction and means the products are working and your skin is adjusting.”
Shield the sun
Many people feel they only need protect themselves on sunny days or at the beach. However, the truth is that we need to protect our skin even when driving a car, shopping or running errands. It’s the daily UV exposure that contributes to the visible signs of ageing. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or greater — and remember that it needs to be reapplied every two hours.
“Avoid exposure to sunlight, it is the most important and powerful cause of skin ageing,” says Dr Paul. “Regular use of good quality sunscreen creams are highly recommended on a daily basis. Be more careful concerning sun exposure during the warmest months from the end of May until the end of October.”
