Skincare: A Series

After years of trying to get to know my skin and finding “quick” fixes for my all too frequent flare ups and breakouts, I’ve finally landed on a routine and have found products that work for me! Let’s be honest, there are so many dang products out there that are marketed to us on the daily. It can be overwhelming and freaking expensive! I’ll be the first to admit that I too often and impulsively purchase things that I don’t need… but I’m working on it! However, I do think skincare is something to invest in. If we get to know and take care of our skin now, we can protect it and prevent signs of aging in the process! I’ll put this out there now, by investing, I don’t mean finding the most expensive products out there, I mean finding what works for you and sticking to a routine.

In the beginning, my dad and brother used to pester me with questions about why I care so much about my skin. Perhaps this was just a case of the oblivious guy brain, but they continued to ask. At first, it was because I wanted my skin to look a certain way. I mean, who doesn’t want a healthy, glowy, breakout-free complexion? But as I’ve learned more, the reason behind my love for skincare has changed. So, why do I care so much about skincare you ask?

First, our skin is the largest barrier we have against infection. In fact, the purpose of the outer layer of skin (the epidermis) is to protect the inner skin from environmental contamination. When our skin is healthy, hydrated, and moist (I know, I hate that word too) the barrier against toxins in the environment is at its strongest!

Second, with a proper skincare routine, we can diminish and prevent signs of aging! As we age, the cells in the epidermis become thinner and our bodies produce less and less collagen. Collagen is the “main structural protein in the extracellular matrix in the various connective tissues in the body.” If you aren’t a science geek like me, that pretty much means that collagen is what gives our skin its strength and elasticity. When less collagen is produced, our skin becomes saggier and less plump – hence, aging. Through a harmonious combination of hydrating products such as hyaluronic acid and collagen-rich moisturizers and SPF, we can keep our skin looking healthier for longer.

Given this information, my perspective on skincare completely shifted. Where my focus used to solely be on my breakouts, I now care way more about keeping my skin clean and hydrated. As it turns out, if you clean your skin properly, most of your breakouts are either hormonal or are a direct reflection of what’s going on inside your body (ahem, proper nutrition!). So next time you get those pesky breakouts during that time of the month, ease up and give yourself a break!

I’m so excited for this series! If you can’t already tell, learning about skincare has become such a passion of mine and I can’t wait to share what I’ve learned.

Here’s what you can expect on the blog over the next few weeks:

• My Skincare Story: Battling Dryness and Hormonal Breakouts
• Retinoids, SPF, Vitamin C, Oh My!
• Chemical Exfoliants: Why You Should Be Using Them
• My Skincare Routine

References: Associates in Dermatology