As December ascends upon us, we start to think of New Year’s resolutions. Some to make, a few to break, but all start with an honest agenda to improve ourselves. We often think of increasing exercise, losing weight or drinking more water when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. Maybe we should be focusing on the health of our skin. It is the largest organ – and one of the easiest giveaways of our health and age – so why not make 2013 the start of something beautiful?
A visit to your dermatologist is a great way to start the year. Your dermatologist will help to determine if your skin is in healthy condition and will help guide you in the right direction. At Toronto Dermatology Centre, our dermatologists will often refer patients to the medical estheticians to further delve into improvement or maintenance of your skin. A skilled medical esthetician will analyse the condition of your skin and recommend products or in-office treatments to improve cosmetic concerns like the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. She will often suggest preventative therapy, such as the use of topical antioxidants, retinols or growth factors which are active ingredients proven to have anti-aging properties.
Most skin conditions will respond well to regular treatment and a professional regimen prescribed by your doctor or esthetician. Professional medical-grade skincare claims are backed by scientific research and clinical studies, unlike most over the counter skincare found at department or drug stores. These targeted treatments are also formulated with concentrated ingredients proven to be more effective in treating the signs of aging.
Another important resolution: daily use of sunscreen. Learn how to apply it and how often. I call it protecting your investment. Photo-aging is the number one reason our skin breaks down. We can help you to get your skin in the best shape possible, but protecting it against the sun is your best bet in keeping it healthy, happy, and young.
Lose weight, exercise more or any other resolution sounds great, but don’t forget the most visible part of you. Your skin is the most obvious part of who you are, so be good to it and make 2013 the year you get started on healthier skin!
~ Sheri, Medical esthetician at Toronto Dermatology Centre
