5 Skin Care Tips with Dr. Davis
Easy, inexpensive ways to avoid wrinkles
If you’re trying to prevent wrinkles, here’s some good news. Effective skincare can help delay the aging process, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. According to Loretta Davis, MD, a dermatologist with Georgia Regents Medical Center, these simple habits can help.
- Use sun protection.
Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and cover up when you’re outdoors. Liberally apply a sunscreen that protects against both UVB and UVA rays with a sun-protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher 20 minutes before going outdoors. “Products that contain mexoryl are especially effective and long-lasting,” Dr. Davis says.
- Don’t smoke.
Smoking accelerates the aging of skin and increases wrinkles.
- Bathe with care.
Long, hot showers or baths and strong soaps irritate skin. Use warm water, limit baths to 15 minutes or less and use mild soaps, soap substitutes or non-soap cleansers. “If you have sensitive skin, avoid irritating perfumes or dyes,” Dr. Davis says. “Carefully remove eye makeup with a cotton cloth or cotton balls rather than paper products.”
- Moisturize regularly.
Moisturizers provide a seal to protect your skin. If you have sensitive skin, avoid products with perfumes or dyes. If your skin is very dry, apply a cream-based moisturizer while your skin is still moist. Creams have more staying power than lotions and prevent water from evaporating.
- Shave carefully.
Shaving may be necessary, but it can irritate your skin. For best results, shave after a warm bath. Lubricate your skin with shaving cream, lotion or gel. Use a clean, sharp razor and shave in the direction of hair growth. Rinse well with warm water.
A smart skincare investment
Many women buy expensive face creams that aren’t truly effective. Only products that contain prescription-strength tretinoin have been tested and FDA approved to reduce fine wrinkles. Tretinoin is available in several strengths, and milder products are available. Costs are comparable to high-end cosmetic products.
Smooth solutions
To schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss tretinoin or other skincare products, call 706-721-CARE (2273) or click on request an appointment.