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With temperatures soaring, many people are suffering from the damage that outdoor activities in summer already cause.
A skin care expert revealed the most common culprit behind signs of aging and how to prevent them.
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Katie Matten, based in Los Angeles, California, is the Global Head of Education at science-based beauty brand Rationale.
She gave tips for a healthier complexion, focusing mainly on the condition of the upper layer of the skin.
“The skin barrier is the outermost layer of our skin and acts as a protective shield against sun and environmental damage, bacteria and allergens,” she said The American Sun.
She added that the “second job” is to lock in moisture, for “healthy, hydrated and plump skin.”
HOW IS MY SKIN?
Matten warned that there is one factor most responsible for skin aging.
“The sun is the most damaging. 80% of facial aging is caused by sun exposure,” the researcher said.
However, she said there are a few additional things to keep in mind when caring for your skin.
“Using harsh cleansers or exfoliants can strip away the natural oils of our skin barrier, leading to irritation and dermatitis.
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“Stress and lack of sleep also play a role. A deficiency of either can affect your skin’s ability to retain moisture.”
THE SKIN BARRIER
The first step in restoring the skin barrier is recognizing that the damage has already been done.
“You may have a tight or dry feeling and see visible signs of redness or irritation,” she says.
Matten shared a trick she uses to check if the skin barrier has been compromised.
“I always ask my clients how their skin feels when they step out of the shower, because that is a good indication of how healthy their skin barrier is.
“A damaged skin barrier can also lead to breakouts, uncomfortable dryness and flaky skin.”
HOW CAN I FIX THIS?
If you suspect your skin barrier has been compromised, Matten has her top tips for you to fix the problem.
“Use a hydrating cleanser rich in ceramides and lipids and avoid products that foam or contain harsh surfactants that strip the skin of its natural moisture,” the expert says.
“The fastest and most effective way to strengthen the barrier function is to add restorative ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid.
Always use a high-quality SPF to protect yourself from all forms of light: UV radiation, blue light and infrared radiation.
“Sunscreens containing zinc oxide also have a calming and soothing effect, which is good for a damaged skin barrier.
“Avoid hot showers, but if you must, let the water fall into your hands and splash it on your face.”
DOING TOO MUCH
Matten says a common skin care mistake is “over-exfoliating and using too many active ingredients.”
She explained what can happen when people misuse active ingredients, such as retinol.
“The skin responds best to antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that occur naturally in the skin, such as vitamins A through E, zinc oxide and hyaluronic acid.”
“If you get enough sleep, drink water and get sunlight, your skin should glow from the inside out without needing any care. That’s when you know you’re doing it right.”
Katie Matten
She said the “more is better” mentality is harmful when it comes to ingredients like vitamin A.
“Human skin loves vitamin A, but the most important thing is to use it slowly and carefully for long-term use and glowing skin without irritation.”
Matten gave some tips to repair the damage, whether it is caused by sun exposure or excessive use of the product.
She recommended using a mild, pH-neutral cleanser with ceramides and lipids daily.
“Hydration is key. Aim for 10 cups of water a day, or 15 if you’ve been exercising, [and] “Add electrolytes,” she said.
NEW SKIN, WHO IS THIS?
Matten analyzed the signals that indicate that your skin is becoming healthier.
“A healthy skin barrier feels smooth, hydrated and supple. It looks even, with a natural glow, and shows no signs of redness, flaking or irritation,” she said.
“If you get enough sleep, drink water and get sunlight, your skin should glow from the inside out without needing any care. That’s when you know you’re doing it right.”
She had some additional advice for people with a certain skin type.
“Oily skin can often already be quite damaged, but this is masked by a layer of sebum that masks the feeling of dryness,” says the dermatologist.
Sometimes over-exfoliating can contribute to this, and it may sound strange, but these skin types still need a gentle cleanser.
“A product with hydroxy acids that restore balance and support the skin’s microbiome.”
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